How to change windscreen wiper fluid

Not everyone knows how to top up windscreen wiper fluid, especially young drivers and those who usually rely on a mechanic. Below is a short guide to topping up your windscreen wipers so you can save money doing it yourself!

The windscreen washer fluid reservoir may be in many places depending on the year, make and model of your vehicle. It is usually mounted along the side the engine bay or near the windscreen along the firewall. It will be marked with a symbol that looks like windshield with wipers moving.

If you find that the windscreen washer fluid reservoir is full but will not spray, it could be due to clogged lines or If the low washer fluid light came on in your car but the reservoir is full, it may be due to a faulty sensor. If you find any of these problems call Townsville Mobile Mechanic on 0400 401 171.

Once you have found the cap twist the cap anti-clockwise to unscrew it and lift it off the reservoir. Make sure the cap is not damaged. If it cannot be closed back onto the reservoir properly, the cap will need to be replaced.

You can purchase windscreen wiper fluid or you can make it yourself. There are many recipes for windscreen wipers online. But I recommend mixing tap water with your favourite brand of dishwashing detergent.  Some sources say distilled water should be used not tap water as they say tap water can leave mineral deposits in the spray nozzles and pump. But distilled water and any over the counter wiper fluid will also leave deposits nozzles and pump. Save you money use tap water.

Use a funnel or the spout on the windscreen washer fluid bottle to pour fluid into the reservoir until it reaches the “full” line on the side. Wipe up any spilled washer fluid. You should be able to see through the side of the reservoir to know when it is full.

Because fluid can expand when heated, it’s important that you do not overfill the reservoir. When the fluid warms due to the high engine temperatures under the hood, the pressure could cause the reservoir to crack and leak if there is too much fluid in it.

Once you have finished hop in the car and test it to see if it works.