Written by Andrei Zakhareuski. With over 16 years of expertise, Andrei leads Driving-Tests.org, a top online resource for driver education. His leadership has established vital partnerships with over 2,600 libraries, educational bodies, and state agencies.

2-Minute Guide to Refilling Your Windshield Wiper Fluid for New Drivers

Nothing is more annoying than pressing the lever to clean your windshield only to hear an empty wine and the sound of your wipers scrape across your windshield. Fortunately, refilling your vehicle’s windshield wiper fluid is super simple. Follow these quick steps to have a clean windshield in no time.

8 Quick Steps to Refill Windshield Fluid

  1. Pick up a jug of windshield wiper fluid at your local auto parts store, big box store, or even a gas station. They can usually be purchased for around three dollars.

  2. Check your owner’s manual for any specific instruction or suggestions regarding refilling your vehicle’s windshield wiper fluid. Also look for instructions on locating the windshield wiper fluid container.

  3. Pop the hood of your car and securely prop it open.

  4. Locate your vehicle’s windshield wiper fluid container. Almost every model features a large, brightly colored plastic cap with an image of a windshield engraved on it.

    windshield wiper fluid capIt is easy to recognize a fluid container by the image on its cap

  5. Take off the lid and place it in a safe place.

  6. Open the jug of windshield wiper fluid. Using a funnel, pour the fluid into the container until it reaches the fill line. If you do not see a fill line, leave a couple of inches of space at the top of the container.

    rear wiper reservoirif your car has a rear wiper, check if there’s a second reservoir for it as well

  7. Replace the cap and lower your car’s hood.

  8. Turn on your vehicle and press the windshield wiper fluid lever. Voila! Clean windshield.

    clogged nozzle If washer fluid doesn’t spray this time, the nozzles might be clogged, or, if you don’t hear the jets working, there is no electrical connection at the pump

Some types of windshield wiper fluid contain components that repel water or help to clean bug residue. It’s a good idea to keep a couple of jugs handy in your garage. using pure water Think twice before using pure water especially in winter as you may end up with a frozen washer fluid pump or broken reservoir

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