Q: Windshield wiper fluid in the coolant

asked by on March 03, 2017

My wife accidentally poured windshield wiper fluid into the coolant. Do I need to get this siphoned out or is it not a problem?

My car has 115000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

You will most definitely want to get the cooling system flushed immediately. I would highly recommend that you not run the vehicle with the washer fluid in the coolant. Windshield washer fluid contains isopropyl alcohol and can be flammable. Not to mention that the alcohol will also render the lubricant in the coolant ineffective and can cause failure of the moving parts inside the cooling system. It could cause failure of the water pump, and can lead to premature failure of several other components. I would either have the vehicle towed to a certified mechanic, or at least drain and fill the system to get it to a shop. If this is something you need a hand with, contact a certified mechanic, like the mobile mechanics available at YourMechanic.com.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Getting code P0303
If you have already taken the first step of getting your codes scanned, the next thing to do would be to have an ignition test performed by a qualified technician. Attempting to do this yourself could result in being shocked...
When start Mazda Protege, there is a squeak in the engine area
The noise is coming from the serpentine belt (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-serpentine-drive-belt). The belt is most likely loose or glazed over from needing to be replaced. Check the belts for tightness by twisting it between your finger and thumb and it will be...
Car makes noises on bumpy roads
If the noise is coming from the front, two common possibilities come to mind. A front strut mount (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/strut-assembly-replacement) or a sway bar link (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/stabilizer-bar-links-replacement). Both of these can produce a clunking sound when driving over bumps and undulations in...
My engine rattles while idle and losing power while driving
This is a common sign of a failing mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement). The mass air flow sensor is a unit in the intake system that monitors air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into...
Car won't start after driving any distance. I have to let it cool down before I can start the engine again.
It's curious that you don't seem to have a code in the ECM. Usually if you have a malfunction that prevents the car from starting, there will be a code resulting. That being said, it sounds like you may have...
Vacuum hose is off and oil is going fast
Hi and thanks for contacting YourMechanic. First you will need to fix the vacuum hose. all vacuum hoses need to be either hooked up or plugged off is not in use. For the oil consumption, check the tail pipe for...
Stock engine swap replacement compatibility
The engines (i.e., the long block assemblies) from the two subject VIN's are 100% interchangeable. Please note though that sensors, electronics, controls and accessories on the engines would have to be separately verified OR, without verification, simply carried over from...
Oil cap is milky, but the dipstick isn't and the coolant isn't bubbling. Please advise.
The discoloration likely represents the effects of entrained moisture in the oil on the cap surface. There can normally be a certain amount of condensation in an engine, for example as weather conditions change or if the engine sits for...
Starter will not stay engaged long enough to start car ?
Hi There, It sounds like you may have a faulty starter solenoid or potentially a bad starter motor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/starter-replacement). A faulty starter solenoid will generally produce a clicking sound when turning the key. The starter solenoid is located on the...

Related articles

What Causes a Car to Overheat?
Several problems can make your car overheat. A leaky cooling system, blocked radiator, bad thermostat, or failed water pump are common causes.
How Long Does a Heater Bypass Tube Last?
In In order for the cooling system on your vehicle to work, you will have to make sure that all of its components are repair free. The thermostat that is on your vehicle helps to regulate the flow of coolant...
The Top 5 Selling Cars in Alaska in 2012
Alaska Alaska requires a different kind of vehicle to handle both the terrain and the wintery conditions. While some of the most popular options for the Alaskan terrain in previous years included options such as the Subaru Forester and the...