Can you use water instead of windscreen fluid?

It is not recommended to use water instead of dedicated windshield washer fluid. Plain water cannot effectively dissolve stubborn residues like oil films and insect splatter on windshields, and its mineral content tends to form deposits in nozzles and tubing, potentially clogging the washer system with repair costs reaching hundreds of ringgit. Moreover, water lacks lubricating properties, accelerating wiper blade deterioration by 30%-50% on average while increasing the likelihood of windshield scratches. Market options range from basic formulations (5-15 ringgit) to winter-grade solutions (20-30 ringgit), with selection advised according to climate conditions. In temporary shortages, distilled water may serve as an emergency substitute, but proper fluid should be restored promptly to ensure driving safety and vehicle preservation.