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How to make a car screen wash?

Published in Automotive Maintenance 3 mins read

Making your own car screen wash (windshield washer fluid) is a simple process that can save you money. Here's how:

From the provided reference, the video "WINTER HACK: Make your own windshield washer fluid - YouTube" suggests that creating your own screen wash is a way to save money. While specific ingredients and quantities aren't detailed in the limited snippet, the core idea is to replace store-bought solutions with a homemade alternative. Given that, here's a generalized approach, based on common DIY recipes:

Basic Car Screen Wash Recipe

While the precise recipe from the video isn't available, here's a commonly used recipe for car screen wash:

  • Ingredients:

    • Distilled Water
    • Isopropyl Alcohol (Rubbing Alcohol) or White Vinegar
    • Dish Soap (Optional, use sparingly!)
  • Instructions:

    1. Mix: In a clean container (gallon jug works well), combine the following:

      • 2 parts distilled water
      • 1 part isopropyl alcohol or 1 part white vinegar
    2. Add Soap (Optional): If desired, add a very small amount of dish soap (a few drops). Too much soap will cause excessive suds.

    3. Test: Before filling your washer fluid reservoir, test the solution on a small area of your windshield to check for streaks or residue. Adjust the soap content if needed.

    4. Fill: Carefully pour the mixture into your car's windshield washer fluid reservoir.

Important Considerations:

  • Freezing Temperatures: Adjust the ratio of alcohol or vinegar to water depending on your local climate. More alcohol/vinegar prevents freezing. In areas with very cold winters, consider using a higher concentration of alcohol. Commercial washer fluids often use methanol or ethylene glycol, which are more effective at preventing freezing but are also toxic. Isopropyl alcohol is a safer alternative.
  • Distilled Water: Using distilled water prevents mineral buildup in your washer fluid system.
  • Dish Soap Caution: Use dish soap very sparingly. Excessive soap can damage your car's paint and create a film on your windshield. Choose a non-concentrated, mild dish soap.
  • Vinegar Smell: If you use vinegar, be aware that there will be a slight vinegar smell, which should dissipate quickly.
  • Safety: While these ingredients are generally safe, avoid getting them in your eyes or ingesting them. Keep out of reach of children.

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