My 2024 Gle has flashed wiper fluid low warning twice since I picked it up in march. I don’t see any leaks but not sure where is the fluid going. Everytime the warning sign comes on, I filled the tank with a full gallon of rain max. I am not using the washer fluid any excessively than my previous 2017 Gle. Anyone know what is the washer fluid tank capacity? Maybe I’m not filling it up fully. Appreciate other comments/thoughts.

 

Just to be clear, the notification comes on and your tank is empty to the point you are refilling with a gallon of Rain-X fluid.

Or is it, notification is coming on and you are topping off with fluid.

 

Once the notification comes on, I topped it up within a week. It does take a full gallon. Not sure at what triggers the warning….. is it quarter tank or almost empty? In my 2017 Gle, I never have to top up. It’s done during annual servicing at the dealership.

 

I would stop using RainX fluid. My BMW X5 developed a leak due to using RainX fluid. I guess RainX affects the seals. The dealership recommended that I switch back to using BMW fluid. The leak stopped shortly after switching back.

I use this stuff in my GLE. You will need the winter formula if you live where it gets cold.

https://nextzettusa.com/kristall-kla...8-5-oz-250-ml/

 

Check the reservoir cap for signs of leakage. Mine wasn't tightened after a service, and I was surprised at how much fluid could seep out.
I got the warning after a hard stop. Look what I found.

 

@freiwill01 , as mentioned above the rain-x windshield wash can do some weird things to the system. Whatever is in the mix, over time can coat the level sensor triggering readings to go off (this is why I asked if you were topping off or refilling a full gallon). I didnt know it could also cause leaks as referenced by blueyonder.

 

I’m taking it in for the dealership to investigate. For anyone reading this, do you mind sharing which windshield wiper brand/type do you use?

 

 

I talked to my service advisor. The washer fluid tank leaks is a known issue. All you can do is to bring it in for warranty. I have my 2020 Gle450. I never use my washer fluid. But when I do use it. It say it is empty. It is not the tank that leaks. But the connectors and the pump that leaks.

 

Had a quick call with my SA today. He said to use any washer fluid (blue color) as long as there is no de-icer in it. He did not say it has to be Mercedes brand. Since we have mild winters I didn’t probe further about what they use in colder regions… I’ll ask during the appointment. He also said in future I could come by any time if I ever need to top up (no booking needed).

Just want to share this as a data point for everyone.

 

1) do not use rain-x. It’s known to cause malfunctions.
2) everything “blue” you can buy from a gas station is typically fine
3) if you want OEM, you can get summer fit and winter fit concentrates from the dealerships. They are not expensive.

 

RainX/Bug Wash clogs stuff and fouls sensors, its not permanent you can flush it out with the regular stuff. The washer bottle holds like 2 gallons.

 

That's the coolant reservoir, I hope you are not adding washer fluid to it.

 

Never mind.

 

You're definitely right, I got my reservoirs mixed up. But as you can see, a not fully tightened coolant cap can empty that reservoir completely.

But regarding the windshield washer reservoir, I can empty the entire reservoir in 30 minutes at the track.
It's kind of embarrassing to be trailing water in every corner.
It just comes out the top.

 

Yeah, you can't really "fully tighten" it. It's either in its place (the bottom notches align with the respective gaps) or it's not. Your picture shows the right position for the cap. When the notches do align - it's gonna feel "loose", i.e. you'll be able to move the cap slightly left/right but it's how it's supposed to be.

Having that said, the cap is a pressure relief valve and it will "release" / "spill" whatever is in excess of what it should be. The v167s (ask how I know) will spill / release the odor until your reservoir level is not at "Max". The dealers are typically careless and don't look at (don't know?) where the max is, so as you get your car back, you start smelling the coolant and will keep spilling until it levels up slightly above that rectangular plastic bar in the middle.