In the northern parts of Sweden, the first snow of winter has already started to fall, and in other words it is high time to start preparing the car for the cold weather.
Before winter, there are a number of preparations to be made on the car. It’s about everything from fitting the winter tires to replacing the fabric floor mats with a rubber equivalent.
However, there is one detail on the car that is important not to forget to change before winter, so as not to jeopardize safety.
You must change this on the car
The detail in question is the washer fluid, which is important for winter safety as it helps you keep the windshield clear so you can see the road ahead of the car. A dirty windshield can also lead to a fine.
The washer fluid must be changed on the car before winter. Otherwise, there is a risk that the system will freeze and become unusable when the freezing temperatures roll in. The reason is that the washer fluid sold in the summer is not suitable for cold temperatures.
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The washer fluid may freeze
The washer fluid used in summer mainly contains agents that dissolve dirt and insects that have stuck to the window. On the other hand, it lacks sufficient frost protection so that it does not freeze when it gets cold.
Washer fluid for winter use, on the other hand, contains alcohol, which can significantly lower the freezing point of the fluid.
The washer fluid you should choose
In winter, it is common to sell washer fluid that is adapted to different temperatures. What strength you think you need depends on what temperatures you expect to have to drive in during the winter.
It is also possible to buy washer fluid as a concentrate where you can mix it yourself to the desired strength.
According to Car themed recommendations give one part concentrate and two parts water a concentrated washer fluid that can handle temperatures down to minus 18 degrees. A mixture of half concentrated washer fluid and half water is good for minus 30 degrees.
Should you still happen to have too weak a mixture of washer fluid in the car when the cold snap comes, which causes the system to freeze, the best measure is to try to warm up the car.
One method might be to drive it into a heated parking garage and leave it there until the washer fluid has melted again, then top up with a stronger mixture.
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