What windshield wiper fluid do dealerships use?

Dealerships do not rely on a single universal fluid. In practice, they stock standard, commercially available windshield washer fluids and select formulations based on the vehicle, climate, and supplier contracts.

Across regions, service bays typically carry both winter-grade and all-season washer fluids from major brands, and they may also use dealer-branded or OEM-approved fluids. The exact product can vary by season, location, and the dealership’s purchasing arrangement, so there isn’t one fixed fluid used everywhere.

Common fluids in dealership service bays

To meet typical customer needs and seasonal demands, dealerships commonly stock several washer fluid options:

• All-season windshield washer fluid (balanced cleaning and anti-freeze properties for moderate climates)


• Winter/antifreeze windshield washer fluid (lower freezing point, designed for cold weather)


• Bug-remover or citrus-scented formulas (enhanced cleaning for bug splatter)


• Propylene glycol-based or low-toxicity formulas (often marketed as safer or “fewer fumes” options)

Dealerships often use a mix of these fluids, selecting the blend that best fits the local climate, the vehicle’s needs, and supplier availability. They may also stock OEM-branded fluids that align with specific manufacturer recommendations.

What factors influence the fluid choice?

Several practical considerations shape which windshield washer fluid a dealership uses for a given service:

• Climate and season (winter blends vs. all-season formulas)


• Vehicle manufacturer recommendations or warranty requirements


• Bulk supplier contracts and preferred brands


• Cost, inventory levels, and ease of on-site mixing or dilution


• Local environmental regulations and safety concerns (toxicity, disposal rules)

These factors mean the exact product may change over the course of a year or between service centers, even within the same dealership group.

Regulatory and warranty considerations

There is no single global standard mandating a particular windshield washer fluid for dealerships. However, shops must comply with local environmental and safety regulations regarding fluid disposal and handling. Automakers may also require a washer fluid that meets their approved specifications to avoid warranty issues or charging for non-compliant fluids during service.

What customers should know

If you have preferences or concerns, you can proactively address them when you bring your vehicle in:

• Ask which fluid is being used and why it’s chosen for your vehicle and climate.


• Request a winter-grade formula if you live in a cold region, or an all-season option in milder climates.


• If you prefer a specific brand (for consistency with your vehicle’s maintenance, for example), inquire about availability or a dealer-branded option.


• Be aware of any potential warranty implications if you request a fluid that deviates from the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Clear communication with the service advisor helps ensure the fluid choice aligns with your vehicle’s needs and your local conditions.

Summary

In short, there is no single windshield washer fluid universal to all dealerships. Most service centers stock a range of options—winter and all-season formulas from major brands or dealer/OEM-branded products—selected based on climate, vehicle requirements, and supplier arrangements. Understanding the factors at play and voicing any preferences can help you get the fluid best suited to your vehicle and local conditions.

What is the difference between blue and purple windshield washer fluid?

The main difference is that blue windshield washer fluid is a standard, year-round cleaner, while purple is typically a concentrated summer formula designed for heavy-duty cleaning of bugs and grime. Blue is best for general dirt in all seasons, whereas purple's specialty is removing stuck-on debris like bugs and tar, and it can freeze in colder temperatures. 
Blue windshield washer fluid

• Purpose: General, year-round cleaning for dust and road dirt. 
• Best for: Standard driving conditions and when freezing is not a concern. 
• Note: Some winter-rated blue fluids (e.g., rated to -20∘Fnegative 20 raised to the composed with power cap F−20∘𝐹) are available, so check the label for freeze protection. 

Purple windshield washer fluid

• Purpose: A concentrated formula, primarily for summer use, to remove bugs, tar, and other sticky residue.
• Best for: Cleaning the windshield of stubborn summer grime.
• Note: It is not a de-icer and can freeze in cold weather, so it should not be used in winter conditions unless it has a specific winter rating. 

Key takeaway

• Check the label: The color is not always a reliable indicator; always check the label to ensure you are using the correct fluid for your climate and needs. 
• Avoid mixing: Do not mix different types of fluids, as this can reduce their effectiveness, notes Ultra1Plus. 
• Winter vs. Summer: Use a de-icing fluid in the winter (orange or yellow), and a bug-remover or general fluid in the summer (purple or blue). 

Does it matter what kind of windshield wiper fluid you buy?

Weather conditions.
If you live in a region with harsh winters, opt for a winter washer fluid rating that can withstand the coldest temperature you experience, like -20F or so. On the other hand, if you experience hot summers with lots of insects, a bug-removal formula might be more appropriate.

Is supertech washer fluid good?

Yes, Super Tech windshield washer fluid is generally considered good, especially for its affordable price and effective cleaning, with many users finding it cleans well and works effectively even in freezing temperatures. It receives positive reviews for leaving streak-free windows and cutting through ice. 
Pros

• Effective cleaning: It cleans dirt, grime, and bugs, leaving a streak-free finish. 
• Good in cold weather: The winter formulas are specifically noted to work well in freezing temperatures and can help de-ice windshields. 
• Affordable: It is a more budget-friendly option compared to many name brands, often outperforming more expensive alternatives. 
• Streak-free results: Many users report that it leaves windows crystal clear without any marks or streaks. 

Cons

• Potential for streaking with some formulas: While many users find it streak-free, one source suggests that some formulated fluids (like those with water repellents) can cause streaking or smearing, though this is not specific to Super Tech's standard formula. 

Is it okay to mix different types of windshield washer fluid?

Yes, you can mix windshield washer fluid, but it's best to avoid it or be cautious as it can diminish special features or cause issues. Mixing different types, especially summer and winter formulas, can dilute the anti-freeze or cleaning agents, and some specialty fluids may cause streaking or clumping. To be safe, it is best to use up one type before adding another or switch to a new type when the reservoir is nearly empty. 
This video demonstrates how to top up windshield washer fluid and explains the difference between summer and winter formulas: 55sAlberta Motor AssociationYouTube · Jan 5, 2016
Why you might want to avoid mixing

• Diluted effectiveness: Mixing can dilute the concentration of special ingredients, such as the anti-freeze in winter fluid or the bug-removing agents in summer fluid, making the mixture less effective. 
• Potential for streaking: Some specialty products, like those with water-beading additives, may cause streaks when mixed with other brands. 
• Risk of clumping: Mixing different types of chemicals can sometimes lead to chemical reactions that cause solids to form, which could potentially clog the system's fine filters and jets. 

Best practices if you must mix

• Use up one type first: The safest method is to use up all the old fluid before adding a new type. 
• Choose compatible products: If you need to mix, choose fluids with a similar base composition. All-weather fluids can be a good choice during transitions between seasons. 
• Avoid mixing water with winter fluid: Mixing tap water with winter fluid can reduce its freezing point and cause damage in cold weather. 
• Rely on distilled water for DIY: If you are making your own fluid, use distilled water to avoid the mineral buildup that can occur with tap water. 

You can watch this video to learn how to make your own windshield wiper fluid using distilled water: 54sTalking With CarsYouTube · Dec 27, 2023