I've searched the forum and online and am a little confused about the BMW windshield washer fluid. From what I can figure out, there are 2 products. One is the additive that you mix with water that creates the "base" windshield washer solution. The other is an antifreeze additive which I assume you can either add every time, or only in the winter months.

Do I understand this correctly?

Either way, can you fill me in on your experience with this, i.e. how much of each I need, etc. Also if you have a good source to order it online that would be appreciated as well.

What's wrong with the round of the mill winshield washer fluid at your local gas station or nearest walmart/costco?

I knew that would be the first question! :)

I guess I'm weird but I like the smell of the BMW solution (Benz had the same smell, amonia?) and it seems to clean the windshield better than the blue stuff you can get for $1 at the local store. This may be my imagination though.

If it was reasonable to get the BMW stuff, that's what I was going to do. If it turns out to be a real PITA then I guess I'll start using the blue stuff.

ok, so no concern it would damage the car's finish or anything. I agree I noticed it seemed to clean better, esp. bug splatter. I think it will be a while before I use up mine, not many bugs lately luckily. Come winter, that is another story.

LOL, I've got like ten bottles of the washer solvent.

it's a concentrate. dump in the small bottle, then fill with water. smells good too, like finger nail polish remover.

Careful with solvents and paint. They sell "premium" washer fluid at most places.

Careful with solvents and paint. They sell "premium" washer fluid at most places.
What do you use?

I live in CA, I think I go through gallon a year at most. I wash my car often so it's not that big of a deal. I remember seeing "premium" blends at Target/Walmart

Get RainEX bug. It's amazing at cleaning. There is no real smell - call me weird, but I think that's a good thing. Unless you're into smelling solvents.

LOL, I've got like ten bottles of the washer solvent.

it's a concentrate. dump in the small bottle, then fill with water. smells good too, like finger nail polish remover.

I take it you just get it from work though, right?

So the bottles I've seen online that are 1.69oz (http://store.bimmersclinicinc.com/bmw-wind-washer-no-afreeze.html) are what you're talking about? Just dump a full bottle in the tank and then top off with water?