Windex - Substitute for Windshield Washer Fluid?

     Windex cleans glass, so you can use it on your car's glass, right? A gallon of windshield washer fluid costs as little as $2.66 while a gallon of Windex costs $11.99, so it doesn't make sense to substitute Windex for windshield washer fluid in your car, but what about using Windex on a car's glass while, say, washing it?

     The answer is a resounding no because Windex will damage many parts of your vehicle including the glass...windshield wiper fluid is not the same as Windex. To keep it from freezing, windshield washer fluid contains alcohol, Windex does not. Windex also contains a lot of ammonia. You shouldn’t use Windex on your car's glass because the ammonia may leave streaks on auto glass. This can pose a danger as it can create a glare while driving at night. It can also ruin your glass if it has been tinted. 

     Never add Windex to your wiper fluid because it includes chemicals that could damage the washer system and it also contains chemicals that could damage the paint on your car. The ammonia will also out the rubber moldings and could dry out the hoses that run from the washer fluid tank to the spray nozzles. Over time Windex could also damage the spray nozzles on the hood over time. It can also damage the rubber windshield wiper blades. 

     Windshield wiper fluid also lubricates the washer fluid pump; if the pump doesn’t stay lubricated, it can stop working, leak and get corroded. 

     What about the other way around. If you run out of Windex (or are just cheap), can you use windshield washer fluid to clean glass in your house? The answer is yes, but Windex will give you a more streak free clean. The acidity of Windex ensures that it cleans better because it breaks down dirt and grime instantly.