How to Check and Change Windshield Wiper Fluid

Checking the level of windshield wiper fluid and changing it is a simple and easy job.

Step 1 – Safety

Be sure the engine of the car is turned off.

Step 2 – Releasing the Lock of the Hood of the Car

Locate the hood release lever in your car. Most hood release levers are located beneath the dashboard, on the driver's side of the car. Pull the lever to release the hood locking mechanism.

Step 3 – Opening the Hood of the Car

Slide your hand under the edge of the hood of your car. Find the latch that keeps the hood latched to the front of the car. Apply pressure and squeeze both sides of the latch with one hand. With the other hand, lift the hood of the car to open it. Pull up the brace post that sits near the inside edge of the front of the car. Insert the end of the brace into the hood to hold it up and open.

Step 4 – Locating the Washer Fluid Reservoir

Locate the windshield washer fluid reservoir. The reservoir is generally a white plastic jug that contains blue liquid.

Step 5 – Opening the Washer Fluid Reservoir

There is a plastic cap lid on the top of the reservoir. Open or lift the cap depending on the lid.

Step 6 – Adding the Windshield Washer Fluid

Open your container of windshield washer fluid. Place the funnel into the opening of the reservoir. Carefully pour the washer fluid through the funnel into the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the top.

Step 7 – Closing the Reservoir and the Hood

Reattach the lid to the washer fluid reservoir. Lower the hood brace with one hand and close the hood of the car with the other hand. Be sure the closure locks in place.