Q&A for How to Add Windshield Washer Fluid to Your Vehicle

First, try activating the washer fluid pump. If you hear it activating, that will usually clear the pump from malfunction. If that doesn't work, check out the plumbing next. Specifically check if the jets are disconnected, which happens often. If there is no sound coming from the pump that activates the jets from the inside of the vehicle, that is a clear sign that it's been disconnected.

Don't add antifreeze to your washer fluid reservoir. It will damage your paint.

No, there is not. Fluid from the same reservoir is used for front and rear windshields.

If your windshield wiper fluid lines are clogged, they will need to be replaced. In many vehicles, these lines are simply rubber hoses. Purchase a new rubber hose and cut it to length, then attach it to the reservoir and the jets.

Adding just water instead of washer fluid is not good because it can freeze and crack the reservoir, which you will then need to replace. If you live in a place where you are absolutely certain it won't freeze it could be alright, but you still might not get as much gunk off your windshield with just water versus using washer fluid.

Don't add antifreeze to your washer fluid reservoir. It will damage your paint.

It depends on your vehicle. Check the manufacturer's handbook, or Google it. Many cars only have one bottle that is hooked up to front and rear.

Yes, but you should be sure that you use one that considers the weather elements that you will have to deal with.

Yes to tap water. Any dish-washing liquid is not recommended. Dish washing detergent relies on being in contact with "dirt" for more than a second. Your wipers will remove most of it too quickly and leave streaks. A much better option is to add 50ml of methylated spirits, or pure ethanol if you can get it. This will remove gunk quickly and leave glass streak free.