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Is it Time to Replace Your Wiper Blades?

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Is it Time to Replace Your Wiper Blades?

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Although you may not think about them very often, wiper blades are pretty important! Most of us have experienced sudden snow or rain when a storm hits while we’re driving—then we turn on the windshield wipers and there’s nothing but streaks. Needless to say, this can be nerve-wracking (and dangerous), especially if you’re driving at night and have to deal with the glare of on-coming headlights. The best way to prevent this is to replace your wiper blades before they fail.

Why is it Necessary to Replace Your Wiper Blades?

It probably goes without saying, but the more you use your wiper blades, the sooner they’ll wear out. Rain, road grime, and even cleaning the bugs off your windshield will contribute to wear, but the environment does as well. Even when you’re not using your wiper blades, they’re exposed to UV rays, ozone, soap, grime, and fluctuating temperatures—all of which lead to deterioration over time.

Replacing your wiper blades isn’t just good for visibility, either. The wiper blades use rubber blades that are connected to metal arms to move rain and snow off your windshield; when the rubber gets worn down, it exposes the metal. This can cause the metal to make contact with your windshield, which can scratch the glass and eventually develop into deep grooves. Once this happens, you’ll need to replace or resurface the windshield. It’s much less expensive (and less of a hassle!) to simply replace your wiper blades before they can cause any damage. 

Fortunately, wiper blade replacement is easy to do—even if you have no automotive experience. A general rule is to replace them every 6 to 12 months. Common signs that it’s time for a replacement include:

  • The metal frames are bent
  • A streaky windshield
  • Gaps between the wiper blades and the windshield
  • Noises when the wiper blades are operating, such as grinding or squeaking
  • Visibly damaged rubber
  • The blades skip across your windshield

Wiper Blade Upgrades

Although you can swap out your old blades for the same type, there are also wiper blade upgrades (in both material and design) available. 

Traditional black rubber blades are great for clearing your windshield when they’re new, but their performance degrades over time. Silicone blades are far less affected by environmental conditions and last longer. 

When it comes to design, there are two elements to consider. First, some wiper blades have a single wiping edge; others have multiple edges. The idea is to maximize the wiping power during both swipes of the blade. 

The second element is the wiper frame—the part that applies pressure on the blade as it passes over the windshield. Conventional wiper blades have frames with four to six contact points on the blade, which apply the pressure needed to clear water and snow. The other design is called a “beam frame.” This uses uniform pressure along the entire surface of the wiper. The shape catches the wind passing over the vehicle to provide additional downforce to help get a clean swipe. A hybrid frame has four to six contact points as with a conventional blade, but also incorporates an airfoil to provide additional downforce as with beam blades.

Which blade is best? It’s always recommended to use at least the grade and design listed in your owner’s manual. However, you can always upgrade for better performance and longevity. While you’re at it, it’s also a good idea to make sure you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid and that your washer nozzles are working properly. 

Need Assistance with Your Wiper Blades?

Whether you need help installing your wiper blades or recommendations on upgrades for your vehicle, EuroCar Service is here to help! We specialize in all European makes and models, including Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mini Cooper, Saab, Volkswagen, Volvo, Smart Car, Fiat, and Jaguar. Call us today at 206-527-8828 or request an appointment online. 

Get to Know Your TPMS

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Get to Know Your TPMS

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All passenger vehicles manufactured since 2006 are equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems, also known as TPMS. This feature is designed to alert you when your tires aren’t properly inflated by displaying a warning light that looks like the cross-section of a tire with an exclamation point inside of it. In some vehicles, the TPMS may also create a digital readout that shows the psi (pounds per square inch) of air in each tire.

How Does the TPMS Work?

There are two different types of tire pressure monitoring systems: direct and indirect. With a direct TPMS, the tire pressure is monitored by sensors located in each wheel, in either the valve stem or the wheel hub. The TPMS measures the air pressure and sends it to the central control unit. The central control unit then reports the data to the vehicle’s information system. 

Indirect TPMS measures the air pressure using software, rather than physical sensors. Although the TPMS may utilize other sensors in the vehicle, like the accelerometers or wheel speed sensors, indirect TPMS primarily uses the anti-lock braking system, which measures the difference in the diameter of each tire. 

Why it’s Important to Check Your Tire Pressure Manually

Although the TPMS is a great safety feature, you shouldn’t solely rely on it to let you know when you need to add air to your tires. The TPMS warning light is designed to turn on when your tire pressure is 25% lower than the manufacturer’s recommendations. Unfortunately, at this point, your tire is already severely under-inflated. 

Although it’s very handy, the TPMS is not a replacement for a tire gauge. You should still check your tire pressure manually at least once a month. You’ll find the recommended tire pressure located somewhere near the door jamb or in your owner’s manual. If you’re having trouble finding it, we’re also happy to look it up for you! The best time to check your pressure is first thing in the morning when the tires are cold. 

Other Reasons the TPMS Warning Light Can Turn On

In some climates, the outside air temperature can vary as much as 40°F in a single day; that’s enough to change the air pressure by 4 psi. In some cases, that could cause the TPMS warning light to turn on, depending on the starting air pressure. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check the pressure in your tires using a tire gauge, especially if there’s a large temperature fluctuation throughout the day. 

The TPMS warning light will also turn on if there’s an issue with the system itself, like a dead sensor battery or a damaged sensor. The TPMS will also need to be reset when you get new tires or have your tires rotated. 

Why is Tire Pressure Important?

Tire pressure is important for your safety for several reasons:

  • Your vehicle won’t handle properly with low tire pressure
  • Low pressure contributes to friction and greater wear on your tires, which can lead to blowouts
  • At high speeds, a rapidly deflating tire can cause a loss of vehicle control
  • Over-inflated tires can cause uncomfortable rides and uneven tire wear

A major automotive study found that 1 in 4 cars and 1 in 3 light trucks has at least one significantly under-inflated tire. Keeping your tires properly inflated is one of the best ways to stay safe on the road—and reduce the cost of purchasing new tires! 

For questions on tire pressure or to schedule tire services, contact EuroCar Service. We specialize in all European makes, including Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mini Cooper, Saab, Volkswagen, Volvo, Smart Car, Fiat, and Jaguar. Schedule an appointment today by calling 206-527-8828. 

What is Fuel Injector Cleaning?

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What is Fuel Injector Cleaning?

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Are you looking for ways to save money at the gas pump? One of the most common issues we see with fuel economy is clogged fuel injectors. When the fuel injectors get blocked by carbon deposits and debris, it can cause your vehicle to use more fuel than it used to. Fortunately, fuel injector cleaning is generally all that’s needed to get your vehicle’s mileage back on track. 

What Are Fuel Injectors, and What Does Fuel Injection Cleaning Entail?

Fuel injectors are components that send fuel from the gas tank into the engine. The injectors atomize the fuel and then force it directly into the combustion chamber at the precise time in the combustion cycle. This process happens thousands of times a minute. Over time, high temperatures under the hood and variations in fuel quality can cause the injectors to collect wax, dirt, water, additives, and carbon. This can cause them to become partially clogged, which prevents them from being able to deliver the right amount of fuel at the proper pressure. 

When your vehicle’s fuel injectors are dirty, it causes the fuel to burn less efficiently, leading to a loss of power and poor fuel economy. Some other signs that can indicate when it’s time to have your fuel injectors serviced include:

  • Rough idling
  • Engine misfires
  • Engine vibration
  • The check engine light is on
  • Fuel leaks
  • A smell
  • Engine surges

If your fuel injectors are completely clogged, there’s a chance your engine won’t start at all. 

During your fuel injection service, our technicians will inspect the various components associated with the fuel injection system, including the system’s connections, vacuum lines, pressure regulator, and fuel rail. We’ll also clean the fuel injectors, so they operate perfectly and deliver the ideal amount of fuel for your engine. Although it can vary based on your make and model, fuel injector cleaning is typically recommended every 36-48 months or around every 45,000 miles. 

Keep Your Engine Performing its Best with Fuel Injection Cleaning 

For an engine to perform well, it needs a carefully balanced mix of fuel and air. If the injectors become clogged, it can disrupt the ratio of the mixture and affect the combustion process, resulting in issues with starting your engine, drivability, performance, and gas mileage. At EuroCar Service, we use state-of-the-art equipment and cleaners during our fuel injection services to restore your engine’s performance and fuel economy. We specialize in all European vehicles, including BMW, Audi, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mini-Cooper, Saab, Jaguar, Volkswagen, Volvo, Smart Car, and Fiat! Call us today at (206) 527-8828 or request an appointment online. 

Why is Auto Air Conditioning Service Necessary?

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Why is Auto Air Conditioning Service Necessary?

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Did you know most car owners don’t service their vehicle’s air conditioner until after it fails? 

Just like other systems in your car, regular maintenance is important for your air conditioner and ensures it always has enough refrigerant to do the job. When there are leaks in the system that allow the refrigerant to escape, your AC can’t cool the air as well. In addition to the refrigerant, AC systems use a special oil that lubricates the components and keeps the seals intact. If the oil or refrigerant is low, it can cause your air conditioner’s parts to wear prematurely. 

What’s Involved in Car AC Service?

The air conditioning system cools the air and removes humidity from the inside of your vehicle using three main components: the compressor, condenser, and evaporator. 

The compressor, which gets its power from the serpentine belt, pumps the refrigerant through the closed system where it’s exposed to pressure. The pressure causes the refrigerant to change from gas to liquid and passes through the evaporator, capturing heat. Then, the refrigerant moves through the system lines and into the condenser. The refrigerant releases the heat outside the vehicle and turns back into a liquid. For your AC to work properly, the system needs to have the proper refrigerant and lubrication levels, and all the components must be in good working order.

We begin your air conditioning service by doing a visual inspection of the components. Our technicians look for signs of damage or leaks and inspect the compressor and serpentine belt for cracks or wear. We’ll check that the compressor, evaporator, and condenser are operating correctly and conduct a temperature drop and leak test. If we detect a leak (which will typically be in the hose or connection), we’ll repair it and retest the system.

If needed, we’ll also remove the old refrigerant and recharge the system with fresh refrigerant. Finally, we’ll perform one last test to ensure your air conditioning system is working perfectly, and you’ll be on your way! 

How Often Should Your Car’s Air Conditioner Be Serviced?

The interval for car AC service really varies from vehicle to vehicle. Check your owner’s manual for your manufacturer’s recommendations, or ask one of our friendly service advisors. It’s typically every two years, but it may be different for your make and model. EuroCar Service specializes in all European vehicles, including BMW, Audi, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mini-Cooper, Saab, Jaguar, Volkswagen, Volvo, Smart Car, and Fiat! If you need car AC service or repair, call us today at (206) 527-8828 or request an appointmentonline.  

What is Differential Service—And Do You Need It?

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What is Differential Service – And Do You Need It?

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When you drive around a corner in your car, the outside wheels have a slightly longer distance to travel than the inside wheels. Because of this, the outer wheels need to spin at a faster speed to keep pace with the inner wheels. The component that makes this possible is called the differential. The differential essentially allows your wheels to travel at different speeds without binding or hopping while transferring power from the engine. 

If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the differential is on the rear axle; for front-wheel drive vehicles, the differential function is handled by the transaxle. All-wheel drive vehicles have differentials on both axles, as well as a center differential or a transfer case. This allows compensation between the front and the rear axles. 

Why Differential Service is Important

Since all the power of the engine is transferred through the differential(s), they’re very strong and built to last a long time. However, like other components in your vehicle, your differential needs to be serviced in order to perform its best.   

Like engines, differentials use oil to keep the internal gears lubricated and reduce friction that can cause excessive wear or heat. However, differential oil is much thicker than engine oil. It needs to be changed at regular intervals because the oil will become thin and contaminated over time. If the oil isn’t changed, the differential will start to have metal-on-metal contact, which will wear out its gears. 

What’s Involved in a Differential Service?

During a differential service, your technician will drain the old differential fluid and replace it with new fluid. They’ll also inspect the u-joints, which connect your drive shaft to the differential. In some cases, we may recommend servicing these as well. 

The interval for differential service can vary based on your vehicle, its mileage, and your typical driving conditions, but it’s generally around every 40,000 to 60,000 miles. However, if you frequently drive on dirt roads or other dusty conditions, it may need to be changed more frequently. Check your owner’s manual for recommendations on your car, or ask your service advisor. 

Differential Replacement

Although differentials last a long time, they’ll eventually wear out and need to be replaced. A failing differential isn’t something you want to ignore—it can freeze up while you’re driving and cause you to lose control or damage other parts of your vehicle, like the axle, driveshaft, or transmission. Some common signs your differential needs to be repaired or replaced include:

  • Excessive engine oil consumption
  • Reduce handling around corners 
  • Difficulty steering
  • Noises like grinding gears, clunking, whining, or howling
  • Sidewall or out tire damage
  • Vibrations that increase as you speed up

If you’ve noticed any of the above signs or you’re due for a differential service, contact the pros at EuroCar Service. We specialize in all European makes, including BMW, Audi, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mini-Cooper, Saab, Jaguar, Volkswagen, Volvo, Smart Car, and Fiat! Call us today at (206) 527-8828 or request an appointment online. 

The History of the Dashboard & Important Warning Lights to Watch For

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The History of the Dashboard & Important Warning Lights to Watch For

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Have you ever wondered why they call the part of your vehicle that sits behind the steering wheel the “dashboard?” It might surprise you to learn that the name comes from a time before cars were even invented. 

When people traveled by horse and buggy, the streets weren’t what they are today. Instead of smooth concrete or asphalt, the roads were rough and unpaved. It wasn’t unusual for mud and stones to get “dashed” (meaning knocked, thrown, or hurled) in the direction of the buggy. Because of this, carriage makers began installing a board to protect them—which became known as the dashboard. 

Eventually, the word carriage got shortened to car, and the dashboard was sometimes referred to as the “dash.” Today’s dashboards sit behind and below the windshield and are used to house a variety of controls and instruments. 

Modern Dashboards Have Become Essential

In addition to the speedometer, tachometer, and gas gauge, your instrument panel has warning lights that can alert you to a variety of issues. These are very important to pay attention to, as they can help you prevent breakdowns, damage to the various systems, and costly repairs. Here are a few of the most important dashboard warning lights to watch for:

Oil Pressure: Oil is essential; it keeps the moving parts of your engine well-lubricated, reduces friction on these parts that can lead to excessive wear and tear, and pulls heat away from the engine. When the oil pressure light comes on, it means there’s been a drop in oil pressure in the engine—so the parts aren’t getting the lubrication they need. Left too long, this can cause serious damage. Call your service advisor immediately and avoid driving until the issue has been resolved. 

Check Engine Light: If your check engine light is on, it means one or more sensors in your vehicle have detected an abnormal situation. This could be anything from a loose or faulty gas cap to a clogged sensor or severe engine misfires. Again, this should be checked out as soon as possible. Our technician will read the code stored in your vehicle to diagnose the issue. If the check engine light is flashing, this means the problem could cause serious damage—so don’t wait! Get it checked out right away. 

Brake Light: If this light is on, it could mean that you left your parking brake on, or there could be a more serious problem, like low brake fluid or hydraulic system issues. Check your parking brake first; if this isn’t on, and the light is on, make sure to get it diagnosed ASAP. 

Tire Pressure: Newer vehicles have a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) built in that will tell you if any of your tires are under or overinflated. Both conditions are a problem. Underinflated tires can affect your ability to handle the vehicle and brake safely, while overinflated tires are more prone to damage from debris, potholes, and other road conditions. If the light is flashing, it means the tire pressure monitoring system itself needs attention. 

Of course, there are many more warning lights in your vehicle. If you see any of the following, it’s best to have your vehicle towed to our shop:

  • Oil light
  • Temperature light
  • Charging (Batt) light
  • Brake light

These warning lights indicate issues that could cause serious engine damage, or leave you stranded or with unsafe brakes. 

Visit EuroCar Service for Reliable Car Diagnostics

Although things were simpler back in the horse and buggy days, today’s dashboard warning lights can tell you many things about the complexities of modern vehicles. At EuroCar Service, we want to make sure your driving experience is trouble- and worry-free! We offer reliable diagnostics services for all European makes, including BMW, Audi, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mini-Cooper, Saab, Jaguar, Volkswagen, Volvo, Smart Car, and Fiat! Call us today at (206) 527-8828 or request an appointment online.  

Trouble Accelerating? It May Be the Throttle Position Sensor

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Trouble Accelerating? It May Be the Throttle Position Sensor

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When you step on the accelerator pedal, you expect your vehicle to speed up—not slow down. If it doesn’t, you may have a problem with the throttle position sensor (TPS). 

What is the Throttle Position Sensor?

The TPS is a sensor that helps determine the right mixture of fuel and air in the engine. When the engine needs more air to accelerate, the throttle opens; it closes when you need less. The sensor is responsible for sensing the position of the throttle. It sends that information, along with airflow measurements, to your vehicle’s onboard computer. 

The computer takes a variety of factors, such as the airflow and how fast the engine is turning over to determine how much fuel the engine needs. When everything is working properly, you’ll have good fuel economy and the acceleration you’d expect. If the TPS fails, you might notice the following symptoms:

  • Poor acceleration
  • Reduced engine power 
  • Your vehicle accelerates on its own
  • The check engine light is on
  • Stalling
  • A rough or slow idle
  • Your vehicle won’t shift up

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s best to schedule an appointment soon. A faulty or failing TPS can be a serious safety issue. 

In the case of total TPS failure, most vehicles have what’s known as a “limp home” or “limp-in” mode. This is a security feature that’s activated when your vehicle’s computer detects an issue that could damage the engine. The less important features of your car will be switched off, and you’ll have reduced engine power and speed, but it’s enough to get you home or to the repair shop. 

Get Your TPS Repaired at EuroCar Service

Computers are an essential part of today’s vehicles, so it’s important to keep them—and the sensors that provide vital information—working properly. Our qualified technicians will diagnose and install the correct TPS replacement part. In some cases, it may also need to be reprogrammed, so it can work harmoniously with the other software in your vehicle. 

Whether you’re having acceleration issues or just need some general maintenance, EuroCar Service is here to keep your vehicle safe and reliable. We see all European makes, including Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Land Rover, Mini-Cooper, Smart Car, Volvo, Saab, Jaguar, Volkswagen, and Fiat. Schedule an appointment today by calling (206) 527-8828 or request an appointment online.  

What is a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin)?

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You probably know what a USB is, but have you ever heard of a TSB?

“TSB” stands for “Technical Service Bulletin”. After a new vehicle has been introduced and driven in the real world by actual consumers, certain design flaws or weaknesses that weren’t discovered during the design and engineering process are revealed. When this happens, automakers send out TSBs. Although they’re generally released when a vehicle is in its first model year, TSBs can be issued at any time as issues are discovered.

While these can be used to alert consumers, their main purpose is to let auto technicians know about problems to watch for. TSBs can be issued for a variety of flaws, including loud noises while the vehicle is turning or a power door that doesn’t close properly.

TSBs vs. Recalls

One important distinction about TSBs is that they’re not the same as a recall. Recalls are made when it’s discovered that a vehicle has some sort of defect that produces illegal emissions or could injure drivers and their passengers. With a recall, the manufacturer has to pay for the safety-related defect to be repaired, usually at a dealership.

When a TSB is issued, however, it’s essentially an acknowledgment that the vehicle’s manufacturer has noticed a pattern of something not working the way it should on a particular model. In a TSB, manufacturers will also suggest the proper way to repair these known issues. The cost for a repair listed in a TSB will usually only be covered by the manufacturer if the car is still under warranty.

If a problem with a vehicle is particularly widespread, the manufacturer may also send out an “Owner Notification” letter. When this happens, they generally have a good idea of the VIN numbers that are affected by the defects. Owner notifications will have time and mileage restrictions, and in some cases, these may extend beyond the warranty period. If your car isn’t covered by a warranty anymore, but a TSB has been issued for it, you can bring your vehicle to any service facility to have the problem repaired.

How to Find Out if Your Car Has a TSB

You can find out whether your car has had a TSB issued for free by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Institute’s Safety Issues & Recalls page. There, you can look up general safety issues and recalls by entering your car’s year, make, and model or searching your VIN. Or, feel free to ask your service advisor about any TSBs that may have been issued for your vehicle.

Although the issue that led to the release of a TSB may not pose any safety risks, it’s still a good idea to have it repaired, especially if your car is still under warranty. If you wait, it could affect the functionality of your vehicle, or lead to a more expensive repair. TSBs guide our technicians on the best repair procedure to get everything in your car working as it should.

At EuroCar Service, we’re committed to maintaining your car’s performance, safety, and fuel economy. We specialize in all European makes, including Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Land Rover, Fiat, Mini-Cooper, Smart Car, Volvo, Volkswagen, Jaguar, and Saab. To find out if a TSB has been issued for your vehicle, or schedule an appointment, call us today at 206-527-8828 or contact us online.

Don’t Overlook the Importance of Wheel Alignment

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Wheel alignments are one of those maintenance items that often get overlooked, but they’re important for two primary reasons: safety and money. When your wheels are out of alignment, they can make your car pull to one side—sometimes very hard and abruptly. If you’re not paying attention or are in slick conditions, this could cause an accident. Bad alignment also causes your tires to wear much more quickly.

We had one customer who noticed his wheel alignment was off right before a road trip, but he didn’t think they were that bad and decided he’d take care of it after he got back. After a couple of long days of highway driving, his front tires were worn down to the cords! He had to take half a day out of his mountain vacation to find a rural town in NH that was large enough to have a tire service center. Needless to say, it would have been much easier—and safer—to have taken care of the alignment before leaving on his trip.

Signs You Need a Wheel Alignment

All four wheels are supposed to be lined up and pointing in the same direction. Sometimes one or more wheels will go out of alignment; when this happens, that wheel is essentially pulling against the rest of the team. Not only does this cause excessive tread wear, but it also hurts fuel economy.

In addition to pulling to one side, some common signs you need a wheel alignment include:

  • Uneven or rapid tire wear
  • A crooked steering wheel, even when you’re driving straight
  • Noisy steering
  • Squealing tires
  • Your vehicle shakes and vibrates as you drive, especially at higher speeds
  • Loose steering

Your owner’s manual will have recommendations on how often you should get an alignment, or we can look it up for you. Typically, wheel alignments are recommended every 2-3 years.

Visit EuroCar Service for All Your Maintenance and Repair Needs

If you’ve noticed any of the above signs, schedule an appointment at Euro Car Service. During your wheel alignment, we’ll also inspect the steering and suspension components; whatever caused your wheel alignment to be off in the first place may have also damaged other parts. As your local European vehicle experts, we specialize in maintenance and repairs for all European makes, including BMW, BMW, Audi, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mini-Cooper, Saab, Jaguar, Volkswagen, Volvo, Smart Car, and Fiat! Call us today at (206) 527-8828 or request an appointment online.

Get Your Windshield Washer Fluid Ready for the Rainy Season

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Rainy weather will be upon us soon, so it’s the perfect time to talk about your windshield washer fluid. Windshield washer fluid is essential for keeping your windshield clear of grime that can be kicked up from wet winter roads—and it’s one of the easiest automotive fluids to maintain on your own. Here’s a look at how to check its level and select the right fluid for your driving conditions.

How to Check Your Windshield Washer Fluid

Many newer vehicles have a dashboard warning light that will come on when the washer fluid is low. You can also check the reservoir itself. Lift the hood and look for a black cap that has a symbol that looks like the shape of a windshield with dotted lines that look like a water spout. Some cars will have a translucent reservoir that makes it easy to see how much fluid you have left. Others have an opaque reservoir with a dipstick to check the level, like oil and transmission fluid.

If you have trouble finding the reservoir, let us know! We’d be happy to point it out to you at your next appointment.

Signs Your Windshield Washer Fluid is Low

If you have a dashboard warning light, it will come on once the washer fluid level gets low. Another sign that the fluid is getting low is a delay between when you try to get the fluid to spray and the fluid spraying on your windshield. If your washer fluid has been low for a while, air can get into the hoses. While this isn’t an issue, it does mean you’ll run out of fluid soon.

If the fluid has completely run out, nothing will come out when you try to clean your windshield. You may hear the sound of the pump as it tries to pump from an empty reservoir. If you keep making the pump come on without filling the reservoir, it can cause the pump to fail—so it’s a good idea to keep the fluid topped off whenever possible.

Open your bottle of washer fluid and pour it into the reservoir until it reaches the full line. Many cars have reservoirs that hold a gallon of fluid, while others have smaller reservoirs, so be careful not to overfill it. When you use your windshield washer fluid next, it will generally take a few seconds for the fluid to make its way through the pump before it will spray.

What Type of Windshield Washer Fluid Should You Use?

You’re probably already familiar with the standard blue washer fluid, but it may surprise you to learn that there are different types of fluid available for different driving conditions:

  • Standard blue washer fluid: this is the least expensive and all-purpose washer fluid you’ll find in auto parts stores.
  • Winter washer fluid: winter washer fluid is typically orange. While it’s more expensive than the standard blue fluid, the formulation includes antifreeze—which helps prevent the fluid from freezing in the reservoir and on the windshield.
  • Summer washer fluid: Summer fluid is typically green and contains special additives that help clean insects off your windshield better than the other types of washer fluid.
  • Water beading washer fluid: Water beading fluid includes an additive that helps the water bead off your windshield as you drive—especially at high speed. One nice benefit of this type of fluid during the rainy season is that you don’t have to use your wiper blades as much.

For All Your Auto Care Questions, Turn to EuroCar Service

At EuroCar Service, we’re committed to your driving safety. If you need replacement wiper blades or recommendations on windshield wiper fluid, we’re always here to help. We can also make sure your washer mechanism is working properly. We don’t want you to be caught out in the elements with poor visibility! As your European vehicle experts, we offer comprehensive maintenance and repairs for all European makes, including Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Land Rover, Mini-Cooper, Smart Car, Saab, Jaguar, Volkswagen, Volvo, and Fiat.

Contact us today at 206-527-8828 or request an appointment online!