[Todd_A]

We have a new 09, picked it up the end of November. The temps here have been around -26.1° C (-15° F). I went to use the wind screen wash and found it would not work. Looked under the hood and it was frozen solid. I put the car in the garage with the heat, on and it did thaw, and the pump worked. All was good. I was wondering if anyone else had any idea what grade of solution they use from the factory. Around here everything is at least -20° F rated.
Second question, is anyone aware of where there would be a drain plug on the tank so I could drain the bad stuff and replace with new?

 

[cb391]

I don't know what the rated low on VW fluid is, but my guess would be -20F. Mine has never frozen, but the coldest we have had since we bought the car was -5F. As far as removing and changing the fluid you will have to siphon it out or see if you can get to one of the hoses and drain it or build your own removal unit using a generic or refugee washer pump like I did. I have wires with clips attached to the motor and pump the fluid from the washer tank into a plastic bottle. After you can refill the tank with appropriate fluid. Prestone make some that is good to -35F.

 

[Georgeup]

First time here, so hello all.

Frozen washers - is this not a warranty issue, surely that vehicle is not "fit for purpose" if it cannot be legally driven in the marketplace it was sold in or intended to be used in.
I am asuuming you must have washers in the US.

 

[silvershadow]

First time here, so hello all.

Frozen washers - is this not a warranty issue, surely that vehicle is not "fit for purpose" if it cannot be legally driven in the marketplace it was sold in or intended to be used in.
I am asuuming you must have washers in the US.

Let's get real - this will never be a warranty matter as it is an owner maintenance responsibility to ensure the appropriate solution for their climatic conditions is used.

There are enough problems already with the US propensity to litigate about matters which are properly an individual and not a societal responsibility without adding to them. The vehicle is fit for purpose and that is where this matter should rest.