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Knowing how to spray windshield wiper fluid on Tesla Model Y is crucial to keep visibility while driving. This article shares exactly how to use windshield wiper fluid, plus when and how to add washer fluid, along with the best washer fluids to use for a Tesla.
How To Use Tesla Windshield Washer Fluid
When you need to clean your Tesla windshield, press the button at the end of the turn signal stalk on the left side of the car’s steering wheel. A light push will only cause the wipers to turn on once. But if you push the button all the way in, the washer fluid comes out too.
This is the only way to use the Tesla windshield washer fluid.
The touchscreen can control other wiper settings, such as speed or automatic use. But the windshield washer is only controlled by the button on the turn signal control.
When To Add Windshield Washer Fluid for Tesla
As you use the windshield washer, the fluid level in the reservoir goes down and you’ll have to add more at some point. There is a sensor that monitors the fluid level. When it’s low, a warning light and message will show up on the touchscreen.
You still have some fluid in the reservoir when the warning pops up and it doesn’t affect driving. So don’t panic, just remember to add it soon.
It can be easy to miss the low windshield washer fluid message. If that happens and you keep using it, the fluid reservoir will run completely dry.
How to Add Windshield Washer Fluid for Model Y
To add windshield washer fluid to a Tesla Model Y, follow these steps:
- With your Tesla Model Y parked, open your frunk through the touchscreen controls or Tesla app.
- Lift the frunk and locate the windshield washer reservoir cap. It’s on the driver’s side near the windshield.
- Clean around the cap so debris doesn’t fall into the reservoir.
- Open the cap and pour in the windshield washer fluid, it holds approximately 1.2 gallons (4.5L) of fluid.
- Wipe off any excess, replace the cap securely, and shut the frunk.
You can see more details in the Tesla Model Y owner manual.
Table for Windshield Washer Fluid Capacity in all Tesla Models
| Model | Model 3 | Model Y | Model S | Model X |
| Capacity | 3.2L | 4.5L | 5L | 3.6L |
Best Windshield Washer Fluid for Tesla
To keep your windshield crystal-clear, it’s important to get the best Tesla windshield washer fluid. I’ve reviewed dozens of options to give you this best-of-the-best list. Everything on it will handle dirt, bugs, and spills without fail.
Prestone AS658P
As a trusted automotive brand, Prestone usually delivers big, and this windshield washer fluid is yet another great example of its superior products.
It is safe for rain-sensing technology and can handle extreme weather down to -27°F (-33°C). Plus, this Prestone 3-in-1 Windshield Washer Fluid incorporates a power cleaner to remove bugs and stuck-on grime.
Prestone also infused water beading technology into this windshield washer fluid. As you drive through the rain, the water will glide right off your windshield without any effort.
I’ve used this year-round and love it. It helps quickly de-ice my windshield in the winter months when my Tesla is snow-covered. And it has performed well on long road trips through bug-infested areas. It is a superior washer fluid.
Pros
- 3-in-1 washer fluid melts ice, removes bugs, and repels water
- Comes from a trusted automotive brand
Cons
- As a premium product, the price is a little higher than other options
Qwix Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate
This super-concentrated windshield washer fluid provides a seemingly endless supply. With this one bottle, you can make 32 gallons (121L) of washer fluid.
The bottle includes a built-in measuring device so mixing up a fresh batch is quick and easy. Squeeze the bottle until you fill the small measurement section, then mix with water.
It leaves an incredible streak-free shine on your Tesla windshield, and it cuts through anything you can throw at it. But be sure to wear gloves because it will leave a long-lasting stain on your skin.
By taking a moment to read the bottle, you’ll see that you need to add methanol for it not to freeze in cold weather. Doing so prevents damage to your washer system caused by frozen fluid expanding. And it helps de-ice your windshield after you spray it on.
Pros
- Small bottle makes over 32 gallons (121L) of washer fluid
- Top-tier formula leaves a flawless streak-free shine
Cons
- Need additive to use for winter use
DOKIKO Car Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate Tablets
This innovative washer fluid features solid tablets that you add to water. They rapidly dissolve to create washer fluid, and they’re superb for storing without concerns of anything leaking.
You can either dissolve a tablet in a gallon (4L) of water and pour that into your washer fluid reservoir. Or you can add the same amount of water to your reservoir, then drop one tablet in. The tablet dissolves and will be ready for use in minutes.
Since I go through a lot of washer fluid, I love this solution. I keep a handful of tablets in the car and can refill my washer fluid anywhere.
Like the other concentrated washer fluid, this is a summer formula without antifreeze. This provides an eco-friendly solution that doesn’t have harmful additives.
If you need cold weather protection, you can add methanol to ensure it doesn’t freeze. These washer fluid tablets will still dissolve, creating a winter washer fluid.
Pros
- 50 gallons worth of fluid in a small package
- No liquid to worry about spilling
- Easy to store in the car and refill anywhere you can get water
Cons
- Need to add antifreeze agent for cold temperature use
FAQs About Tesla Windshield Wiper Fluid
Does Tesla Have Special Windshield Wiper Fluid?
Teslas do not need special windshield wiper fluid. They are a typical washer system with a reservoir connected to hoses, with nozzles on the wiper. If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, make sure to get a winter formula that won’t freeze.
Why Won’t My Windshield Fluid Spray Out?
If your windshield fluid isn’t spraying out, there’s a good chance if it it is empty. To refill your Tesla windshield fluid, open the frunk and locate the reservoir cap on the driver’s side near the windshield. Open it and fill until the level is right under the cap, then close it and shut the frunk.
Our Verdict
It’s best to regularly top off the washer fluid, or at least do so whenever the warning light message comes on.
Regularly top off your washer fluid with one of the best options, such as the Prestone 3-in-1 All Season Windshield Fluid.