Discover the common and often overlooked reasons why your windshield wiper fluid is not coming out and learn how to fix it quickly.
Smudges, dirt, road dust, or anything else obstructing a clear view should be cleaned with your trusty washer fluid and wiper blades. But one day, you may engage your wipers and fluid only to discover that your windshield washer fluid is not coming out! Read on to learn why your windshield wiper fluid is not working and how to fix it.
The windshield washer system is usually pretty simple. Diagnosing and fixing the problem can be quick if you have a problem like a clogged nozzle. However, you may discover an electrical or other more complex issue requiring a professional’s help.
If you press the windshield washer button but hear no noise and no fluid sprays on your windshield, your windshield washer pump likely isn’t working. The pump makes a distinct whirring noise, and you should be able to hear it with the hood and windows open.
A blown fuse is one of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning pump. While this can be an easy fix, a bad pump fuse may indicate the pump’s end of life.
The windshield washer pump sends the washing fluid from the reservoir to the nozzles. One common reason for its failure is insufficient fluid level, which causes it to work harder and heat more. However, the windshield washer pump can break from regular wear and use. If you replace its fuse and the pump is still quiet when you press the button, it’s likely dead.
A professional car mechanic can quickly test the washer pump by providing power to it. If the motor starts whirling and blowing air on the nozzle, the pump is working. Otherwise, you’ll need a replacement.
If the fuse is good but the pump motor doesn’t work, you might have electrical issues. The wiring that powers the pump or its connector pin may be faulty. This can be checked with a multimeter. The windshield washer pump should typically receive 12V power. If the multimeter shows 0V or odd values, you likely have an electrical issue and should consult a pro at your local service center.
If you notice a puddle underneath your car after refilling the wipe fluid, you likely have a leak somewhere in the system. A cracked reservoir or leaking hose can cause you to lose all the washer fluid.
If you’ve refilled the system and it worked for a while before dying quickly, you can fill it again to search for a leak. Only this time, park the car and wait at least 30 minutes for the puddle to form. You should also look for leaks on the engine and under the hood linings. If the washer linings have cracked, they may not leak until you press the button for the windshield fluid to engage.
One particular part drivers often overlook during the inspection is the Y splitter, which divides the fluid line into two separate lines for the nozzles. You might also have T or L connectors on a single line that feeds both nozzles. These splitters/connectors are located underneath your hood’s lining and are usually made of plastic. With temperature swings, the plastic can crack and cause one of your nozzle lines to leak under the hood lining. Luckily, this is generally an easy and inexpensive fix.
Is the windshield wiper fluid not working despite a refill and a functional pump? You could have clogged nozzles. If the nozzles are clogged, you may see visible blockages covering the jets. You might be able to unclog the nozzles with a small pin or by soaking them in vinegar. Depending on the condition of the nozzles, they may need replacement.
If your car was parked for a while, debris could have accumulated in the pump filter and hardened into a clog. Your pump may work fine, but the fluid may not be able to pass the filter. Cleaning the filter should promptly fix the issue.
Washer fluids are rated for specific minimum temperatures. The fluid may have frozen if the outside temperature is below your washer fluid’s rated temperature. If that’s the case, keep your engine running to help thaw the fluid and replace it with a fluid rated for winter.
Using a summer windshield washer fluid in the winter can damage the pump, reservoir, and hoses. Frozen fluid expands, which can crack any of the system components.
Some of the windshield washer issues are easy to self-diagnose and fix. However, a qualified mechanic should solve more complex issues. The experienced technicians at Ed Hicks Nissan can quickly find the underlying problem and provide a repair plan.
A clean windshield is not just a matter of aesthetics; it’s crucial for a clear view of the road ahead. If you’re having problems with your washer fluid, trust the pros at Ed Hicks Nissan. Our expert technicians are ready to help diagnose and fix your issue so you can confidently return to the road. Schedule your service appointment in Corpus Christi today.
