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windshield wash fluid not spraying

Discussion in 'Prius c Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by want_a_c, Jan 23, 2014.

  1. want_a_c

    want_a_c Junior Member

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    So I obviously checked the fluid levels and added plenty to make sure its not empty..
    I don't know if there is some issue with a pump that needs to be warmed up first, or some ice buildup on the nozzles (obviously I didn't see any).
    After driving for about 20 minutes it started spraying just fine. Although it doesn't seem to spray very well in the rear window.
    I'm wondering if it is just the cold temperatures (was around 0-5 at night) or if there is another issue.
     
    #1 want_a_c, Jan 23, 2014
  2. Paradox

    Paradox Prius Enthusiast / Moderator
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    With the weather we are having here in the NE (You don't list a location in your profile but I can see it and know it is cold there, lol) you probably had the washer fluid freeze in a line somewhere causing it not to spray. It'll work once it warms up, but don't keep trying to use them or you may burn out the pump. I always use up all my 'summer' fluid come September even if I have to just keep spraying it and then add winter fluid for the winter, a good one like Rain-X or Prestone winter fluid. It won't freeze down to the negative digits. The cheap stuff and the summer stuff will definitely freeze at 0-5 degree temps.
     
    #2 Paradox, Jan 23, 2014
  3. MarcSmith

    MarcSmith Active Member

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    my lines were freezing as well. Northern VA,

    In the Am when come out of the garage its fine, but by the time I get to work, no spray, and again, when I leave work it sprays fine, but by the time I get home no spray.

    I added some "no freeze" wiper solution to the tank, only got about 12 ounces before the tank was full. I think the dealer watered down what was in the tank prior to my purchase.

    I tried to mix the new stuff in but it spray is still pretty clear looking, no blue tint yet to the fluid.

    you could always add some extra rubbing alcohol (93%) or therabouts to help lower the freezing temp.
     
    #3 MarcSmith, Jan 23, 2014
  4. want_a_c

    want_a_c Junior Member

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    Actually I have a feeling that this is exactly what happened. At my regular service, the dealer refilled with the cheap fluid that will freeze at these temps. Now that you mention it, the spray isn't nearly as blue a sit should be (given that I bought the stuff that should be good to -20).
     
    #4 want_a_c, Jan 23, 2014
  5. Paradox

    Paradox Prius Enthusiast / Moderator
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    Yeah, I specifically tell the dealer I don't want them doing anything other than what I specifically bring it in for. I don't want them re-adjusting my tire pressures, filling the washer fluid, washing the car to swirl it up etc.

    At least this is just a minor annoyance right now because of the temps and easily remedied.
     
    #5 Paradox, Jan 23, 2014
  6. MarcSmith

    MarcSmith Active Member

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    i've given some though to putting a siphon in the tank and sucking out some of the fluid... but in the grand scheme of things as long as the lines don't crack.
     
    #6 MarcSmith, Jan 23, 2014
  7. Fauxknight

    Fauxknight Active Member

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    I usually swap to a winter fluid when it gets colder, just buy one gallon of decent stuff and it should last you all winter. Depends on where you are getting your maintenance done though, the stuff from my last dealer was worthless in the winter, but what my Toyota dealer is using in the C has held up even in the crazy low temps this year.
     
    #7 Fauxknight, Jan 27, 2014
  8. Oldwolf

    Oldwolf Prius Enthusiast

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    In the winter I use the -21F fluid to avoid freezing.
     
    #8 Oldwolf, Jan 30, 2014
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