Methanol Wiper Fluid Splash, Am I Safe?

[TVarmy]

Hi, I'm new to the forums, and I'm sorry if this is the wrong place to put this, but the other night I was out driving and my windshield had some dirt on it, probably from another car. I sprayed some of the fluid that came with the car on it, only to see it ice up on the spot. I pulled into a Target and bought a gallon jug of $1.75 -40 F wiper fluid, which was red and not RainX, if it matters. I made a point of not getting ethylene glycol, as I feel it's bad for the environment and should not get dumped on the side of the road, so it instead uses methanol.

As I live in a college dorm and have no good place to store a bunch of chemicals, I filled the stuff out in the lot, where it was dark, after I sprayed out all the old wiper fluid. I couldn't see a fill line on the wiper fluid tank, and I have a 2007 PT Cruiser Wagon, and the tank was located next to the passenger's side of the windshield. When I poured it in, I accidentally overfilled the wiper fluid's container, and some of it went down the vents that lead to the cabin's air filter. Looking online, it seems to be a paper filter lined with a plastic holder. Would that keep the wiper fluid off of it? I drove home with the heat on, but I want to know if I'm poisoning myself with wood alcohol.

Should I check the filter? Change it? No longer use the heat until someone qualified looks at it? Can a couple tablespoons of wiper fluid really vaporize a dangerous amount of methanol?

I don't feel ill or more confused than usual, short of the exam anxiety and sleep deprivation that comes naturally this time of year. Nor do I smell the wiper fluid. I just don't feel safe without asking for a few more opinions.

Also, a side question: I think I have a slow leak on the front driver's tire. I assume it can't be repaired, and I don't know the warranty, but if I have to replace it, are there any good tires for a PT Cruiser Touring with no antilock brakes? Emphasis on no ABS, as I want good mileage and a comfortable ride, but hydroplaning/skid resistance is key. I may just make this a new thread, just thinking aloud.

[quicksilverdon]

Unless you drink it, methanol of the amount you're talking about is not an issue.
As to the air filter - there is a housing, but no paper element in it - you have to buy that (about $15).
Tires are like religion .....
Most agree the Good-for-a-years are not a good buy. They are terrible in rain, don't last, and aren't cheap.
I like my Michelin Hydro Edges - good wear, good in rain, not super expensive.

[Hooligan]

TVarmy, welcome. Take your leaking tire to a tire sales, it is possible that !. valve stem is leaking, 2. Bead is leaking on wheel. You didn't say how many miles you have on it, but I wouldn't rush out and buy new tires if it is possible to fix your leak.