Windshield Washer Fluid Odor in Cabin

[raylepper]

I don't use the windshield washer much (garage kept, frequent hand wash) but the other day I did. Going about 35 mph, the spray barely came up only 3-5 inches on the windshield—like it was aimed too low. Then the smell from the fluid was quite noticeable in the cabin. The smell persisted for several days. My theory is that the excess fluid ran down beneath the cowl and into the cabin air filter intake.

Has anyone have a similar experience?
Can anyone confirm my theory or offer a solution?
Are the washer fluid nozzles "aimable?"

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[MountainBikeDude]

It's just due to air flow, HVAC air intake position, and strong smelling washer fluid.

Typical for all Rivians.

Edit. It shouldn't persist for days, the trim below the windshield directs excess off to the left and right, the trim that snaps over it, which covers the 12v batteries (on gen 1) and HVAC cabin filter is raised up to prevent liquid from making it in.

Two things could be possible,
- You were running your HVAC fan hard and saturated your windshield with washer fluid, causing mist to be sucked into the cabin filter, causing a persistent smell until it fully evaporated?
- One of the connections on a middle nozzle may be leaking onto the intake?

 

[jfoonly]

Yes, the spray is smaller in low temperatures, especially with the OEM summer fluid below freezing. Have you been in cold weather? Many here seem to love the chemical smell. I switched to a less noxious de-icer for winter or bug remover version for summer.

 

[wicked2112]

This is normal my friend. My friend says it smells like BRUT cologne from the 70s! ALL GOOD!!

 

[SeaMonkey80]

The Rivian Washer fluid has an absolutely delicious aroma. I sometimes just spray the windshield to get the smell in the cabin even if the windshield doesn't need to be cleaned! 🫣

 

[UnsungZero_OldTimeAdMan]

I don't use the windshield washer much (garage kept, frequent hand wash) but the other day I did. Going about 35 mph, the spray barely came up only 3-5 inches on the windshield—like it was aimed too low. Then the smell from the fluid was quite noticeable in the cabin. The smell persisted for several days. My theory is that the excess fluid ran down beneath the cowl and into the cabin air filter intake.

Has anyone have a similar experience?
Can anyone confirm my theory or offer a solution?
Are the washer fluid nozzles "aimable?"

After years/decades of nasal spray use for allergies, my sense of smell is shot. However, what you experience is normal. It happens in just about every car. Fluid evaporates and the fumes get sucked in through the cabin intake filter. Or, it runs and gets spilled directly on to the filter. The fluid Rivian uses has a fairly unique bubblegum-like fragrance. It's made by Genuine Chemistry.

If you do a forum search for "washer fluid", you will find lots of hype/discussions over it. And you'll find who was/are addicted to it. Lately, it doesn't get talked about nearly as much. Maybe the addicts have all successfully gone through rehab.

 

[VSG]

If you do a forum search for "washer fluid", you will find lots of hype/discussions over it. And you'll find who was/are addicted to it. Lately, it doesn't get talked about nearly as much. Maybe the addicts have all successfully gone through rehab.

I'm not addicted, I can quit anytime. I just don't want to.

 

[COdogman]

 

[wicked2112]

The Rivian Washer fluid has an absolutely delicious aroma. I sometimes just spray the windshield to get the smell in the cabin even if the windshield doesn't need to be cleaned! 🫣

ME TOO!!!

 

[CANCERDOC]

The mouthwash smelling Rivian washer fluid is terrific. It’s super expensive to buy separately and many of us would love an alternative. I use the tablets and they are terrible (but really cheap). GM reportedly also has a minty fresh washer fluid but the aftermarket Delco bottle doesn’t have a scent.

 

[solaskaze]

I'm not addicted, I can quit anytime. I just don't want to.

This forum ordered a set in bulk. What could go wrong?

Let's see where you are in the program:

1. Admit Genuine Chemistry has taken control and without life is unmanageable.
2. Believe help from beyond yourself is possible.
3. Decide to trust a higher power to guide your life.
4. Take an honest look at your actions and behaviors.
5. Share the truth about your wrongs with yourself, a higher power, and another person.
6. Be willing to let go of harmful traits.
7. Ask for help in removing those traits.
8. Make a list of people you harmed and prepare to make amends.
9. Make direct amends where possible, unless it causes further harm.
10. Continue personal inventory and admit mistakes quickly.
11. Seek guidance and strength through prayer and meditation.
12. Carry the message to others and practice these principles daily.

So: we're at step 5. Good job!

 

[dduffey]

Someone could make a lot of money by making automotive air scent hangers and "cologne by Gary" for this forum of addicts.

Make sure to include the requisite health warnings.

 

[raylepper]

I never thought I'd get so many replies that make such scents.

 

[freshpow]

How dare you describe the smell of that sweet, sweet nectar as an odor!

 

[Judd]

I now huff the windshield washer fluid in the store to determine which one I buy haha

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