Volkswagen ID.4: Washer fluid

General information

Fig. 1 In the hood space: Cap on the washer fluid reservoir (general example).

The windshield washer fluid reservoir is located in the hood space. The washer fluid reservoir is identified with the symbol on the cap → fig. 1.

Check the washer fluid level regularly and fill if necessary.

Preparations

1. Prepare the vehicle for work in the hood space.

2. Open the hood (→ In the engine compartment).

Checking and refilling

1. Check if there is enough washer fluid in the reservoir.

2. To top it up, mix clean water with a suitable alcohol-based windshield cleaner. Follow the mixing instructions on the packaging of the windshield cleaner → , → . There is a screen in the filler tube in the windshield washer fluid reservoir. The screen keeps large particles of contaminants from entering the washer nozzles when you refill the washer fluid → .

3. When the outside temperatures are cold, an anti-freeze agent should be added to the water so that it does not freeze. Follow the mixing instructions on the packaging of the anti-freeze agent.

Do not use distilled water to fill the windshield washer fluid tank.

WARNING

Unsuitable additives in the windshield washer fluid can create an oily film on the vehicle windshield. This may reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents and serious or fatal injuries.

• Never add coolant additive or similar unsuitable additives to the windshield washer fluid.

NOTICE

Using a cleaning agent that contains acid may result in damage and cause the spray nozzles to malfunction.

• Never top up the windshield washer fluid tank using a cleaning agent that contains acid, e.g. vinegar-based cleaners.

NOTICE

Mixing different windshield cleaners can cause the components to flocculate and the spray nozzles to clog.

• Only use suitable alcohol-based windshield cleaners.
• Never mix different windshield cleaners together.

NOTICE

When you top up the windshield washer fluid, if you use a damaged screen or do not use a screen at all, dirt particles may get into the windshield washer fluid tank. The spray nozzles may become clogged.

• Take the screen out only to clean it.
• Replace a damaged or missing screen.

Introduction

Only perform work on the engine cooling system if you are familiar with the necessary activities and the general safety precautions, and if the correct operating equipment, fluids and suitable tools are available. Work performed incorrectly can result in serious injuries → . Have all work performed by suitably qualified professionals if necessary. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Information about warning and indicator lights can be found in the troubleshooting section at the end of the chapter (→ Engine coolant).

WARNING

Engine coolant is poisonous. Contact with coolant, especially swallowing coolant, may result in serious or fatal injuries.

• If you swallow coolant, seek urgent medical help.
• If you have health problems after working with coolant, seek medical help.
• Always store engine coolant out of the reach of children and only within the sealed original container.
• Never use empty food cans, bottles, or other containers to store engine coolant, because someone could drink the engine coolant by mistake.
• Avoid regular contact with coolant to prevent damage to your skin.
• Protect your skin, face, and particularly your eyes when working with coolant.
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke when working with coolant.
• Wash your skin with soap and water after working with coolant.

WARNING

In extremely low temperatures, the coolant can freeze and the vehicle could break down. This can cause the heating to stop working in the vehicle. Vehicle occupants could die of exposure if they do not have sufficient warm clothing.

• Make sure the coolant additive is always adjusted according to the ambient temperature.
• Only use coolant additive approved by the manufacturer.

Coolant and coolant additives can pollute the environment. Catch any leaking operating fluids and dispose of them correctly according to environmental regulations.