Cap for Windshield Wiper Fluid

Compatible with a wide range of car brands that use the same type of cap. I used this for an Opel Astra J Sports Tourer from 2016, also known as Vauxhall Astra. Printable in as single color or multi-color when your printer supports it.

Multi-color printing is especially useful when using black for the model and white for the "wiper fluid" icon on top of it, just like the original caps. This might also work very well with some extra bright glow-in-the-dark filament!

Usage and mounting

The files contain both a PIP (Print-in-Place) version and a regular version (separate ring and cap). Either one of the two should work on your printer. If PIP does not work in your case, use the regular two-part version of the model.

Print In Place (PIP) version

Just print the model and click the model onto the wiper fluid compartment in your vehicle. That's it. No further instructions required.

Regular ring+cap version

Print the model, and then mount the cap onto the ring using the hinge mechanism. You may need to apply firm pressure, but be careful not to break the connector piece. Breaking happens a lot with regular (not strong) PLA filaments.

Slicer instructions

If your printer supports multi-color, make sure to paint the icon on the cap a different color than the cap itself. I used black and white, like the original cap that comes with most cars. You can use glow-in-the-dark filament too.

Please note that the cap needs to withstand dust and moisture in your vehicles engine compartment. Also, the small hinge and clamp break easily when using regular PLA filaments. Use at least strong PLA or preferably ASA.

If you are printing multi-color with a single nozzle, make sure the 'wiper fluid' icon is up higher (or down lower) than the rest of the model.

Generic slicer instruction

• Rotate the model accordingly (especially when printing multi-color)
• Cap and ring diameter was measured 51mm in Solidworks (3D software)
• Longest dimension (hinge to clamp) was measured out to be 63.5mm
• At least 3 top and bottom layers for most "hobby at home" 3D printers
• Supports below the cap model, regardless of its orientation (see below)

Print-In-Place (PIP) version

I recommend using the following settings, at minimum, keeping the 'wiper fluid' icon facing down:

• Gyroid 25% infill recommended
• Use supports on the icon's side

Regular ring+cap version

I recommend using the following settings, at minimum, keeping the 'wiper fluid' icon facing up:

• Gyroid 20% infill recommended
• Use supports on the inner cap
• Be extra careful with the hinge

License information

Yes, you are free to (re)distribute this wherever and whenever you like. Free for all. You can sell it if you like.