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The importance of using windscreen washer fluid

Graham Reynolds | 9th Nov 2023 | 4 minutes to read

Since 1946, when windscreen washers became an extra cost option on all General Motors vehicles, we have become accustomed to the ease and convenience of the cleaning power of both windscreen wipers and windscreen wiper fluid. A quick spray of liquid onto the windscreen coupled with a few strokes of your windscreen wipers and you can see clearly ahead quickly and easily.

Whilst plain water is the easiest and cheapest way to top up your windscreen washer reservoir it does not provide the cleaning power of windscreen washer fluid which is formulated to effectively clean your glass. Repco stock a huge range of quality windscreen cleaner brands such as Bars Bugs, Trico, Eclipse and more to provide you with clear vision with a minimum of fuss.

Here are a few questions about Windscreen Washer Fluid that can give you a better understanding of the topic:

  1. Is windscreen cleaner safe on paint protected surfaces?
  2. Is windscreen washer fluid safe to use on tinted windows?
  3. Can you use windscreen washer fluid on Perspex windows?
  4. How much windshield washer fluid should I use?
  5. Can I create my own windscreen washer cleaner from household products?
  6. Getting the Most Out of Your Windscreen Wipers

Is windscreen cleaner safe on paint protected surfaces?

Any reputable brand of windscreen cleaner will have been evaluated to ensure it does not strip or etch into any painted surface and if any residue remains it can be easily washed off and will not leave marks.

Is windscreen washer fluid safe to use on tinted windows?

Tinted glass is either a dark layer of pigment on the glass produced at the factory or as a film applied by the aftermarket. Saying that, both forms of tinted glass are perfectly fine to use with windscreen washer fluid.

Can you use windscreen washer fluid on Perspex windows?

Provided the windscreen washer fluid is diluted to an approved ratio then these will be just as effective on Perspex as they are on windscreen glass.

How much windshield washer fluid should I use?

If using a windscreen washer fluid as a concentrate it will require you to dilute this with water to a ratio suggested by the product manufacturer. If using a premixed solution, you can top up your windscreen washer reservoir without this additional step.

Can I create my own windscreen washer cleaner from household products?

Whilst it may be tempting to play home chemist and mix up a batch of windscreen washer fluid this may lead to problems. Ingredients such as dishwashing liquid, methylated spirits and vinegar can all be effective cleaning agents when used in their right applications, but when concocted in your windscreen washer reservoir can lead to increased suds, paint corrosion and deterioration of windscreen wiper rubbers and seals.

Windscreen washer cleaning windscreen

Getting the Most Out of Your Windscreen Wipers

So, as you can see, for the minimal outlay, ease of application and effective cleaning power it makes sense to use a quality windscreen washer fluid in your vehicle. Whilst we may not have to constantly battle the challenges of sub-zero temperatures and the possibility of your windscreen washer fluid freezing, we are more likely to encounter dirt and dusty conditions as well as swarms of insects.

By purchasing a reputable windscreen washer additive you can ensure the vision out of your vehicle remains unobstructed and free of streaks, smears, dirt, bugs, and road grime. The chemicals within your windscreen washer additive also help provide lubrication to your wiper blades to assist in the cleaning of your windscreen to provide clear sight with a minimum of windscreen wiper sweeps.

Using a windscreen washer fluid in tandem with your regular car care and maintenance schedule will ensure you and your family remain safe on the road. Always ensure you regularly clean your wiper blades and replace these when they are losing their effectiveness. It is also important to clean interior glass to remove pollution haze, fingerprints and smearing with glass cleaner and a suitable microfibre towel or pad.

Whether you browse and shop online or come into your local Repco store, you will find the widest range of products and brands to clean your windscreen and glass. Clean windscreens and vehicle glass make for safe motoring, and as one of the easiest and most cost-effective products, a quality windscreen washer fluid is a vital addition to your car maintenance schedule.