Still using Rainx. Been a few months since I pulled and cleaned sensor. The light hasn't been back. But I also haven't let it run low/out. I'm betting that once it gets low, the residue dries on the sensor and blocks new fluid from being sensed. Regular fluid may break down the residue allowing it to work again since it doesn't have the Rainx additive in it. Guessing that my Dart's sensor is made a little different or is less sensitive to this.

 

So you want to blame Dodge/RAM for a problem where a part doesn't work with some washer fluid that is made outside the spec/formulation of industry standard because some other vehicle happens to be OK with the non-standard stuff? I'd be blaming Rain-X for selling something that apparently quite often causes problems in otherwise correctly functioning vehicles.

Rob

 

Yes I do. Explain why the spec on the part of one vehicle is so different from the other one made by the same company in the same model year even. Its not just "some other vehicle" that it works fine with. And who can prove Rainx is made outside a spec of industry standard? Been using it for years in multiple vehicles with low washer sensors with no issues. Doesn't sound so much out of spec with the fluid as it is out of spec with the part.

 

Just sent this to Rain-X corporate.

To whom it may concern.
Apparently there is a problem with Rain-X Washer Fluid that is becoming a bit more prevalent and noticed, particularly by Dodge RAM owners.
Apparently after a certain period of time, use of Rain-X Washer Fluid will cause the washer fluid sensor in these trucks to give a false reading of empty, when in fact the fluid tank is full.
This recently started happening to me after 3 years using Rain-X Washer Fluid only in the winter in Omaha NE, I kept using it beyond winter this year and have now had the same problem happen to me.
It is currently being documented in this thread at DodogeForum.com https://dodgeforum.com/forum/4th-gen...indicator.html
While this isn't a huge deal, it may be worth looking into. Some that have had the problem simply switch to whatever cheap blue washer fluid is available and the sensor works again.

Thank you for your time.

 

Why would the spec be different? Because both are in tolerance for standard fluid, but that doesn't mean they are identical. One happens to be different (probably made by a different company with a different set of parts) and whatever is different about Rain-X causes issues. Who can prove Rain-X is made differently? I'm sure a chemist. But I'm fine making the (unproven) assumption that it is since only Rain-X is causing issues when, apparently, all standard windshield washer fluid seems to work fine.

This isn't rocket science. Using Rain-X seems to cause issues in some vehicles. Blame Rain-X. You can wish that Chrysler used the same Dart sensor in all vehicles or you can cast blame on Chrysler for "not testing with every possible fluid formulation", or you can stop using the one that causes the problems.

Rob

 

Well lets look at that. You say regular fluid works fine. Agreed. Rainx seems to work fine with some sensors and not so good with others. Also agree. Looks like some sensors don't follow the same exact spec as others. If the chemical makeup of Rainx hasn't changed, what has? The spec of multiple sensors which are used by Chrysler in production. Chrysler warrants said parts so if they are not performing as they should, its their baby. Is it directly Chrysler's fault, no. But it is theirs to rectify by either changing the spec on the sourced sensor or making an addendum to the manual stating that using Rainx with said vehicle may cause a problem with the level sensor, and its use is not recommended. To date I have seen neither. Just dealers putting all the blame on Rainx like its some new on the market product causing a problem.

Been using Rainx in vehicle 1 since day 1 (15 months). Using on vehicle 2 since day 1 (10 1/2 months). 1 issue with vehicle 2 about 3 months in. None since sensor was pulled, cleaned and reinstalled. So I wouldn't say that what ever the cause is that big of a problem for me. I'm not that worried about it. But it is a problem people here at DF decided to talk about. And I chose to voice my opinion on the matter.

 

This topic is a cool read. At least, if I go to use RainX and notice the above mentioned issue, I will know the cause. Thanks for the heads up on possible issues.
Birk

 

Another solution if you really love the RainX stuff (Which it is great stuff) is remove the factory sensor and solder a wire across it and re-install it. No more false low washer fluid indications. I check my oil weekly so the idea that i would accidentally run out of washer fluid anyhow is highly unlikely. A gallon usually lasts a month in the winter, maybe three or more in the summer.

 

You check your oil weekly? Does the truck leak?

 

I think he means that when he gets gas, a good practice it to check the oil as well. Most of the time I do the same, no leaks, just habit.