What Does a Smeary Film on Your Windshield Indicate?

What can a smeary film on the windshield of a vehicle indicate?

A. Evaporator core leak B. Water valve leak C. Heater core leak D. Restricted drain hose

Answer:

A smeary film on a vehicle's windshield typically indicates a Heater core leak, not an Evaporator core leak, water valve leak, or a restricted drain hose.

If you notice a smeary film on the windshield of your car, it often indicates a Heater core leak. The heater core is a small radiator-like device used in heating the cabin of a vehicle. When it leaks, it releases coolant that can form a film on the inside of the windshield when the defroster is used. It's not the result of an Evaporator core leak, water valve leak, or a restricted drain hose. These may lead to other issues within the vehicle's engine system but not specifically a film on the windshield.

A smeary film on the windshield is an indication of a restricted drain hose. When the drain hose is clogged, water cannot properly flow and is instead directed back onto the windshield, causing the film. This can happen due to debris or leaves blocking the hose.