Screen wash warning light: Everything you need to know

The screen wash system works with the windscreen wipers to ensure you have a clear view of the road ahead.

Virtually all modern cars feature a screen wash warning light on the dashboard (also known as the ‘washer fluid warning light’). This important car dashboard warning light is designed to alert you when your car’s screen wash level is running low. However, it can sometimes indicate other, more serious issues.

If your washer fluid warning light switches on, you might need to take action to maintain your safety and visibility whilst driving - and to keep this vital piece of equipment in top condition.

As a driver, it’s important to familiarise yourself with this warning light, its common causes, and the action required. In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your car’s screen wash system working correctly.

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What is the washer fluid warning light?

The washer fluid warning light is designed to indicate when your vehicle’s windscreen wiper fluid is running low and needs refilling.

It does this using sensors, which signal that the fluid reservoir is almost empty. The washer fluid warning light, which is located on the dashboard in most cars, is then activated to notify the driver.

The specific symbols used for this warning light vary between car manufacturers. However, in most cars, the washer fluid warning light is depicted as an outline of a car windscreen, with a plume of water spraying upwards through the middle. Some variations also show liquid at the bottom of the windscreen.

The colour of the light also varies, but most commonly, it’s amber or yellow when illuminated.

Is it safe to drive with low washer fluid?

It’s important to keep your windscreen wiper fluid topped up at all times. Washer fluid is used to lubricate and clean the windscreen when you switch your windscreen wipers on.

This is a crucial safety feature for maintaining visibility in bad weather conditions, and on dirty or dusty roads. Therefore, if you have low washer fluid, you should refill it right away. Ideally, you should only drive your vehicle to top up your washer fluid – and avoid driving in bad weather.

Your windscreen wipers alone are not enough to keep your windscreen clean. If you fail to keep your washer fluid topped up, you risk limiting your visibility when driving in the rain, or difficult road conditions which, in turn, could lead to an accident.

Is it legal to drive with low washer fluid?

In the UK, driving without wiper fluid is a legal offence. If you’re caught driving with no or low washer fluid, you risk being fined.

If you’re in an accident caused by restricted vision, and are caught with no or low washer fluid, you’ll automatically be deemed responsible.

You can be fined £100 the first time you are caught without wiper fluid, and may receive further penalties for other, more serious offences.

Therefore, it’s always best to have extra screen wash to hand; it’s one of a few essential items you should keep in your car.

Why won’t my washer fluid light turn off?

There are a few reasons why your washer fluid light may be switched on:

Most obviously, your washer fluid light may have switched on because your windscreen washer fluid needs topping up.
If you have checked or topped up your washer fluid and the light persists, it may be that the sensors attached to the screen wash warning light are compromised

If you experience issues with your screen wash warning light, contact your local mechanic. They should be able to diagnose and rectify the problem.

How to fill up washer fluid

Make sure you have your windscreen wiper fluid (dilated as necessary) on hand before you start. You should also consider using a funnel, to avoid spillages.
Ensure your engine is switched off before you begin.
Open the bonnet and locate the washer fluid reservoir. This is usually a translucent container with a cap on - and may feature the same logo as the screen wash warning light.
Check the fluid level; this way you know how much fluid you’ll need to add in.
Remember, only ever add new fluid on top of the current fluid if you’re refilling it with the exact same product.
Pour in the new fluid and securely close the cap.
Now you’re ready to lower the hood and test out the wipers.
Make sure you clean up. Avoid leaving any fluid spillages to prevent stains and paint damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Filling your wiper fluid reservoir with water is not recommended. Windscreen fluid is designed to provide effective cleaning and prevent freezing in cold temperatures.

Water alone is unlikely to properly remove dirt and grime. What’s more, there is the risk that the water will freeze in cold weather, which could damage the wiper system. Therefore, if your screen wash warning light appears, it’s always best to top up with genuine wiper fluid.

How often you’ll need to replace your windscreen wiper fluid really depends on how often you use your windscreen wipers. This is why the screen wash warning light is so useful, as it can flag a low wiper fluid reservoir without the need for manual checks.

However, checking your wiper fluid reservoir before embarking on a long drive is still advisable, particularly if you’re anticipating bad weather.

Check your fluid reservoir. If there is no wiper fluid inside, there may be an issue with your screen wash warning light.

However, if there is fluid inside, your wipers might be blocked. Try cleaning the nozzles with a pin or needle. If that doesn’t work, there could be an issue with the pump or a fuse, in which case, it’s best to consult with a mechanic.

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