Is there any truth to issues with certain Wiper fluids causing corrosion in Minis? I never had any issues with the BMW's I owned.

 

One can't say there is no risk from any wiper (windshield washer) fluid, but if you are that concerned get the Mini stuff or what the Mini parts department stocks.

For my cars when I lived in colder climes I would wait a few days after a cold snap set in and then go by a local gas station/truck stop that set a pallet of washer fluid jugs (1 gallon size) out. I'd grab a couple of jugs that had no slush/ice in them.

Never had any problems with the stuff freezing in the washer fluid tank, the lines, nozzles, or corroding anything. In fact with my Boxster the fluid didn't even stain or discolor the canvas of the soft top.

Nowadays where I live it doesn't get very cold and freezing of the fluid is not a concern. When I have the car in for servicing the tech tops up the washer fluid with whatever fluid the service department uses, and it probably uses either something with the Mini brand name on it or something it has found works is suitable for that region.

 

I agree with the testing of putting the jug out to see if it freezes or turn to slush when it's cold enough. But I only buy when they put out the -20 or -32 washer fluid and buy enough for a year. I use it all year round and never had a problem in any vehicle with corrosion.

 

I used the stuff I bought year 'round. Just I never had to buy any in the summer. Seldom had to use the windshield washer system at any time other than in the winter.

 

Ive never heard of that from washer fluid, now brake light fluid, thats a different story.

 

Never heard of that, but I know orange rainx fluid works great but will dye the tank a little orange.

 

never heard of it, I use it in my meth injection tank, I spill it all the time and I've not seen any harm

 

I've certainly heard of RainX wiper fluid damaging fluid level sensors in wiper fluid tanks on a variety of cars.

--Matt

 

I've heard of it before. With some fluids if you mix other fluids with certain chemicals in them there is a potential possibility that it'll cause gunk.