What did we test?

• Net volume

We verified the declared net volume of the fluids

• Crystallisation temperature

We verified the declared freezing point of the fluids

• Methanol content

We checked the methanol levels in the fluids.

• Packaging functionality

We evaluated the packaging of the fluids from the perspective of child safety, leakage, type of handle and the presence of a pouring funnel.

How did we test the fluids and what did we find? Download the report.

"We selected 8 brands of windscreen washer fluids for the test and checked them in terms of parameters useful from the point of view of consumers. The experts from the UOKiK laboratory examined the compliance of net volume and crystallisation temperature with those declared by manufacturers, the methanol content and packaging functionality. I encourage you to read the test results included in the report," adds the President of UOKiK.

The fluids underwent a total of 80 tests, which generated 254 partial results. Details of the evaluation and the methods used can be found in "Test information".

Packing functionality – conclusions

• Seal-tight closure

The closures of all tested fluids were leakproof, both before the first opening and after opening and closing the packaging. The packaging of all products containing hazardous substances or mixtures should be leakproof, as well as able to withstand transport damage and resistant to exposure to compounds present in the product.

• Childproof cap

None of the tested fluids had a childproof two-stage cap ("push-and-turn"). Although these products do not require (due to their chemical composition) the presence of such a cap, the manufacturers could consider voluntarily using it to prevent the opening of the product by children. However, from the driver's point of view, this can make it difficult to open the packaging, especially in winter at low temperatures and in difficult weather conditions. All caps had corrugated surface to make unscrewing easier.

• Type of handle

Each fluid was equipped with a handle for easy carrying and pouring. Three of the tested fluids had a handle on the side of the packaging (Shell Essentials, Orlen and 4max). The Shell Essentials and 4max handles feature finger grips, which make using them more comfortable. The Auchan fluid has a handle attached to the cap at the top of the packaging, which is the least handy and durable. All the other fluids feature a handle at the top of the packaging.

• Presence of a pouring funnel

3 of the tested fluids included a pouring funnel in pack. They were Orlen, 4max and Psik psik. The manufacturer of Shell Essentials provides a picture suggestion to pour the fluid by placing the packaging flat on its side - it is an effective method to reduce spillage and we recommend using it when pouring from other such bottles and canisters as well.

"#UOKiKtestuje is a series of tests aimed at educating and raising awareness of consumers with regard to various products on the Polish market. We want Poles to be able to make conscious purchase decisions thanks to our tests, which provide a qualitative comparison of products. These are often products commonly found on the market, but not recognised by consumers due to the low advertising budgets of manufacturers. The products to be tested in our independent UOKiK laboratories are selected by the Trade Inspection as part of market research, and the test results are used also by the Inspection," adds Tomasz Chróstny, the President of UOKiK.

Tips for consumers

What does a car windshield washer fluid contain?

Main ingredients:

• Water - demineralised or distilled to prevent scale build-up
• Alcohol - usually ethanol, prevents the fluid from freezing in low temperatures

Other ingredients

• Surfactants are responsible for removing dirt from the glass
• Anti-foaming agents - they keep the glass properly moistened
• Lubricants, such as glycerine, ensure a smooth glide and quiet operation of the wipers
• Fragrances mask the smell of other substances, particularly alcohol

You can rely on the Trade Inspection and UOKiK

Any objections concerning the safety and labelling of products can be reported to Voivodeship Inspectorates of Trade Inspection.

If a product is defective, file a claim with the seller. You can do it within two years from the date of purchase. You can request repair or replacement of the goods, price reduction, and if the defect is significant – a refund. Having no receipt does not necessarily prevent you from filing a successful claim. The proof of purchase may also be a bank or credit card statement, VAT invoice, order placed in an online store, etc.

Remember that in the case of online purchases, you can withdraw from the contract within 14 days (the so-called "cooling-off period"), and then 14 days to return the product. In the case of goods purchased at a brick-and-mortar store, it will not always be possible to return the goods. It depends on the retailer, the rules and regulations of the store in question. You can learn more about your rights at prawakonsumenta.uokik.gov.pl.

Download the results of the windscreen washer fluids tests from uokik.gov.pl.

Consumer assistance:

Phone: 801 440 220 or 22 290 89 16 – consumer hotline
Email: [SCODE]cG9yYWR5QGRsYWtvbnN1bWVudG93LnBs[ECODE]
Consumer Ombudsmen – in your town or county
Trade Inspection – in your voivodeship

Additional information for the media:

UOKiK Press Office
Pl. Powstańców Warszawy 1, 00-950 Warszawa, Poland
Phone +48 695 902 088, +48 22 55 60 246
E-mail: [SCODE]Yml1cm9wcmFzb3dlQHVva2lrLmdvdi5wbA==[ECODE]
Twitter: @UOKiKgovPL