Car Ownership 101: Windshield Washer Fluid Is Not Like Motor Oil
We’ve asked the brightest German mechanics to let us in on a few secrets. Turns out we shouldn’t replace oil with Windex.
We wish we were kidding, but we’re not. Thankfully, the scenario we’ll share with you today isn’t related to a Mercedes-Benz vehicle or owner, but it’s painful nonetheless. If you’ve wondered why companies stamp “CAUTION HOT” on cups of coffee, it’s because of folks like these.
According to Carscoops, the owner of a Mini Cooper noticed the low-windshield-washer-fluid light come on, so she decided to take matters into her own hands. So far, a pretty good decision on her part.
ALSO SEE: CLK63 Horsepower Proves Too Much For These Newlyweds
What wasn’t good was her interpretation of the little pictures drawn on the caps, lids and covers under the hood. After playing “eeny, meeny, miny, moe,” the German woman chose to pour windshield washer fluid into the opening designated for motor oil.
The result? Well, you can see the picture above. The woman drove a short distance before she noticed smoke emanating from the engine compartment. A trip to the dealership reveled her dirty deed. Needless to say, an engine swap is in order.
If you’re reading this and have never owned a car, remember: Windshield washer fluid is not like motor oil.