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How to top up your windscreen fluid

A car’s windshield washer fluid reservoir is shown with its blue cap closed.

Overview

Clear visibility on the road is a must, and that means making sure your windscreen washer fluid is always topped up and ready to go. Whether you're dealing with bugs, dirt, or road grime, a car windscreen cleaner helps keep your view clear and safe. The good news? Topping it up is one of the easiest car maintenance jobs you can do. Here's how to do it in just a few quick steps.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 

Steps

1Park and pop the bonnet

Start by parking your car on a flat surface and making sure the car engine is switched off. Then, open the bonnet and secure it with the support rod. Once the car bonnet is safely open, look for the windscreen washer reservoir. It’s usually located near the front of the engine bay and marked with a cap that has a windscreen symbol on it. If you’re unsure, check your car’s owner manual for guidance.
A person is securing the car bonnet with the support rod.

2Clean the cap and check the level

Before opening the reservoir, give the cap a quick wipe with a clean rag. This helps remove any dust or grime that could fall into the tank. Once it’s clean, open the cap and check the fluid level. If it’s running low or completely empty, it’s time for a top-up.
A person points at the blue windshield washer fluid cap under a car's hood.

3 Add windscreen washer fluid

Pour in your windscreen washer concentrate first, then follow up with the correct amount of clean water as per the instructions on the product label. You can use a funnel to help pour more cleanly, especially if the reservoir opening is small or tucked away. Be sure to use a cleaner that’s designed for windscreens—household cleaners can damage the system or reduce visibility.
A person wearing gloves is pouring windshield washer fluid into a car's reservoir using a funnel.

4Finish up and test

Once the reservoir is full, replace the cap securely and lower the bonnet. It’s a good idea to test the system straight away by giving your windscreen a spray using the controls inside your car. This ensures everything’s working properly and the windshield washer fluid is circulating through the jets.
A red car’s windshield is sprayed with windscreen washer fluid.

5Now that you’ve checked and topped up your windscreen fluid

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.