You should put screenwash in your car on a regular basis to ensure good visibility and prevent freezing, especially during winter.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Regular Intervals: Check your screenwash reservoir frequently, ideally every few weeks, and top it up as needed. This prevents running out unexpectedly.
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Before Long Journeys: Always top up your screenwash before embarking on long drives. This ensures you have enough to maintain clear visibility throughout your trip.
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Winter Months: During winter, it's crucial to have a good concentration of screenwash with antifreeze properties. This prevents the washer jets and reservoir from freezing, which can severely impair visibility. Using a screenwash specifically designed for winter conditions is highly recommended.
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When the Low-Level Warning Light Appears: Many modern cars have a warning light that illuminates when the screenwash level is low. This is a clear indication that you need to top it up. Don't ignore this warning!
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After Heavy Use: If you've been using your windscreen wipers and washers frequently, for example, during rainy or muddy conditions, check the level and top up as necessary.
Why is using screenwash important?
- Clear Visibility: Screenwash effectively removes dirt, grime, insects, and other debris from your windscreen, ensuring clear visibility.
- Prevents Smearing: Using water alone can often smear dirt around the windscreen, making visibility worse. Screenwash contains detergents that break down grime and prevent smearing.
- Protects Wiper Blades: Screenwash helps lubricate the windscreen, reducing friction and wear on the wiper blades, extending their lifespan.
- Prevents Freezing: Winter screenwash contains antifreeze, preventing the washer jets and reservoir from freezing, which can damage the system and impair visibility in cold weather.
In summary, proactively checking and topping up your screenwash is a simple but essential maintenance task that ensures safer driving conditions.