Special Windshield Washer Fluid..... Really???

[dal59]

I have no garage, so with my cars outside all the time, I go through a lot of washer fluid.

I understand not using the Rain-X or other fluids that have a lot of additives in them designed to bead up water, or other "special" bug remover additives. I can see how these additives can build up a residue in the lines and nozzles causing problems down the line. However, do I really have to buy Audi washer fluid? What about the cheap blue fluid all the auto stores sell? And my wife drives a BMW. So now I have to buy two separate "special" fluids?

I really wouldn't even give it any thought, but I never had a car with headlight washers before and I do not know if they require anything special.

Thoughts / experiences???

[ywang98]

I use this: https://www.nextzettusa.com/kristall...8-5-oz-250-ml/

In my VW days, this was the same as the factory stuff (smelled and worked the same). I got this information from fellow forum users. This is a concentrate, so you can make a lot of final fluids with this. The website says just use tap water, but I use distilled water. The website used to day distilled water, but I guess it doesn't matter now. However, using distilled water will ensure you won't get spots from the water (but may with the soap anyway).

[scsu]

Ya, the Kristall Klar noted above makes great washer fluid. The only downside is it can't be used below freezing, so being in PA I have to change over to standard old blue fluid for the winter.

For the rain-x, it won't clog up in your system. Rather it puts a coating on the low fluid sensor that triggers a low fluid light when it's not actually low. Used rain-x exclusively in my F250 for 17 years and never had a problem with clogging.

Sent from my SM-G981V using Audizine Forum mobile app

[Audibot]

Add a bottle of HEET to give you below zero capability.

[Burrcold]

You can use the cheapo stuff to your hearts desire...it's not going to mess anything up.

[JohnEnglish]

Yeah, I just use the stuff from Costco. Works for me.

[torinalth]

rain X. from my observations back in the B8 days those that had issues didnt use a lot and it tended to get most posts about it in the summer suggesting its more of an evaporative proponent. Like you I burn through a lot, about a jug a month to month and a half and have never had the issue with rain-X green (summer/bug) or orange (winter capable). Sure others work, but i've not had issues.

[dal59]

Awesome. The cheap blue stuff it is!! It actually seemed to make the most sense. It is basically water, a little detergent and some sort of antifreeze. Not a lot of additives and probably close, if the not the same as the Audi brand.

thanks guys.

[CurvesAhead]

I use this: https://www.nextzettusa.com/kristall...8-5-oz-250-ml/

In my VW days, this was the same as the factory stuff (smelled and worked the same). I got this information from fellow forum users. This is a concentrate, so you can make a lot of final fluids with this. The website says just use tap water, but I use distilled water. The website used to day distilled water, but I guess it doesn't matter now. However, using distilled water will ensure you won't get spots from the water (but may with the soap anyway).

Same product I use, really like it a lot, my car does see freezing weather so it's perfect. The best I have ever used, smells good too!

[Liquid Smoke]

who said you needed the special audi fluid (which is prob the same stuff lol). just use the blue stuff u find anywhere, and the orange ones in the winter (but it probably doesnt get that cold in atl).

[zac3707]

Hey Dal, I'd imagine using that much fluid you probably go through wipers quicker than us garaged folk. Any recommendations on wipers that have worked? Audi charges $80 for theirs!!

[dal59]

Hey Dal, I'd imagine using that much fluid you probably go through wipers quicker than us garaged folk. Any recommendations on wipers that have worked? Audi charges $80 for theirs!!

No, my wipers are still fine. I just use them for a couple of swipes to clean the windshield at the beginning of each cruise. I suppose they will crack or dry rot before they wear out. However, when needed, I will probably just have the dealer throw on a set during an oil change.

[CurvesAhead]

Hey Dal, I'd imagine using that much fluid you probably go through wipers quicker than us garaged folk. Any recommendations on wipers that have worked? Audi charges $80 for theirs!!

These look interesting and are highly rated, less money then Bosch Icons: https://www.audiworld.com/forums/aud...ipers-3030112/

[Yeoman]

Who said you had to use Audi fluid?? The most ridiculous thing I've ever heard.

[initiala4]

Cheap Blue wash fluid will do its job....