Windshield washer fluid is necessary to keep your windshield clean and streak-free, but sometimes it can have an unpleasant smell. Whether you’re dealing with a new or an old bottle, there are ways to get rid of the odor and restore your car’s freshness. This blog will show you how to eliminate the windshield washer fluid smell and keep your car smelling great.
What Is Windshield Washer Fluid?
Windshield washer fluid is essential to any car, truck, or SUV. It combines water, detergents, and other additives that help keep the windshield and other windows clean. Without it, you would be left with a streaky mess every time you tried to see out of the windshield.
Windshield washer fluid is typically made up of water, detergents, and other additives. The additives can vary but typically include alcohol, methanol, ethylene glycol, and isopropyl alcohol. The detergents help break down dirt, grime, and other debris that can accumulate on the windshield and make it difficult to see.
The purpose of windshield washer fluid is pretty straightforward – it helps keep the windshield and other windows clean. Spraying the fluid onto the windshield helps dissolve the dirt, grime, and other debris that accumulate there. It also helps reduce the glare from the sun and other lights that can interfere with your vision.
Why Does Windshield Washer Fluid Smell in the Car?
Several potential reasons you may be smelling windshield washer fluid in your car. Let’s explore these causes and how to address them.
A. Evaporation
Windshield washer fluid is mostly water and other ingredients such as antifreeze or detergents, that help clean your windshield and windows. After windshield washer fluid is stored in the car for a long time, it can evaporate. This causes an ammonia-like smell as the liquid breaks down and releases its chemical components. One way to reduce this smell is to ensure your windshield washer fluid is topped off and stored in a cool, dark place.
B. Leaks and Spills
Sometimes, windshield washer fluid can leak out of the reservoir. This can happen if there is a crack in the reservoir, the cap is loose, or the pump is not working correctly. Not only can it smell, but it can also leave a stain on your car’s upholstery.
When there’s a leak or spill in your car, the fluid can spread to the carpet and other nearby surfaces, causing an unpleasant smell. Make sure to clean up any spills immediately, and always keep your car in good repair.
C. Contamination From Other Fluids
Contamination from other fluids can also contribute to a car’s windshield washer fluid smell. The fluid can become contaminated when the windshield washer fluid is stored near other automotive fluids, such as brake fluid, transmission fluid, and antifreeze. This can create an unpleasant odor.
D. Additives and Preservatives
Some windshield washer fluid has additives, and preservatives added to it. These are meant to help prevent the fluid from freezing in cold weather. Over time, the additives and preservatives can break down and produce an odor.
E. Low Coolant Levels
If your car’s coolant levels are low, this can also cause a smell. Coolant helps keep the engine cool, so if there is not enough of it, the engine can start to overheat, and this can cause a smell.
Another cause of the ammonia smell may be low coolant levels. If your car’s cooling system is running low, the fluid may not be able to dissipate heat properly and can create an unpleasant odor. Check your car’s coolant levels regularly and top them up as necessary.
F. Old or Expired Fluid
Old or expired windshield washer fluid can also create an unpleasant odor in a car. As the fluid is stored, it can become contaminated, causing a strong odor. Some manufacturers add preservatives to the fluid, which can start to smell over time, creating an unpleasant smell.
Steps to Get Rid of the Smell
You’ll need to take a few simple steps to get rid of the bad smell coming from your windshield washer fluid. Let’s take a look at each of these steps in more detail:
1. Clean Out the Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir
The first step you should take to get rid of the bad smell from the reservoir is to empty it. This should be done at least twice a year, as dirt and debris can build up over time. Start by taking the cap off the reservoir and using a wet cloth to wipe out the inside.
2. Use a Cleaning Solution to Remove Contaminants
After you’ve emptied the reservoir, it’s time to use a cleaning solution to remove any contaminants that may be present. To do this:
-Dilute some car wash soap or a specialized cleaning solution with a few cups of warm water.
-Fill the reservoir with the soapy solution and let it sit for a few minutes.
-Once this is done, use a wet cloth to scrub away the dirt, debris, and other contaminants that may be present.
3. Use a Deodorizing Solution
The next step to take when trying to eliminate the bad smell from the windshield washer fluid is to use a deodorizing solution. You can buy a specialized deodorizing solution from your local auto parts store or make your own. To make your own, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, pour it into the reservoir, and let it sit for a few minutes.
4. Replace the Windshield Washer Fluid
The last step you should take when trying to eliminate the bad smell from the windshield washer fluid is to replace it. Make sure to use a new, clean, and odor-free washer fluid. Depending on the type of washer fluid you have, it may be best to use a specialized washer specifically designed for your make and model of car.
5. Change the Water of the Washer Fluid
It’s important to change the water of the washer fluid. This will help remove any remaining contaminants or odors that may still be present. To do this, open the cap of the washer fluid reservoir and pour out the old fluid. Next, fill the reservoir with fresh water and replace the cap.
Following these steps should help you eliminate the bad smell from your windshield washer fluid. Take the time to follow these steps regularly, and you’ll be able to enjoy a fresh-smelling car interior.
How to Prevent Windshield Washer Fluid Smell in Car
There are some steps you can take to help prevent this unpleasant smell from taking over your car’s interior. Here’s how to prevent windshield washer fluid smell in your car:
1. Regularly Check the Fluid Level:
It’s important to check the level of your windshield washer fluid regularly. This is because the fluid level tends to drop over time, meaning your car will run with a lower concentration of fluid than it should. To avoid this, check your fluid level regularly and top it up if necessary.
2. Inspect for Any Leaks or Spills:
Leaks and spills commonly cause that unpleasant smell, as the fluid can leak onto different surfaces inside your car and cause a strong odor. If you notice any leaks or spills, it’s important to find the source and repair it immediately.
3. Clean Any Areas Where the Fluid Has Come Into Contact:
Even if you don’t notice any leaks or spills, it’s important to clean any surfaces with which the fluid has come into contact. This is because the fluid can evaporate over time and leave behind a residue that can cause a bad smell.
4. Replace the Fluid Regularly:
Just like any other fluid in your car, it’s important to replace the windshield washer fluid now and then. This is because it can get contaminated with dirt, dust, and other debris, causing that unpleasant smell.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, anyone can easily eliminate the unpleasant smell of windshield washer fluid with a few simple steps. You can quickly and easily remove the smell by replacing the dirty fluid with a fresh, odorless one and ensuring any clogs or cracks are sealed. Taking these steps will keep your car smelling fresh and ensure optimal windshield visibility by keeping the washer fluid in top condition.
