Car windscreen washer pump

Washer pump is a component of the window washer. The driver controls it with the help of lever or switch. As a rule, we speak about an electric pump that operates from the vehicle network. In many cars there are several pumps, as in most cases the rear window and partially headlights are equipped with the washers. Duplex pump can supply water for two window washers, while one pump supplies water through a single output. Washer pump location differs depending on the car model and manufacturer. In most cases it is located in the front part of the car, behind the fender.

If the window washer does not operate, this means that the washer pump has a defect. If the pump makes noise when engine is on and water is not supplied when the hose is on, it is necessary to replace the pump. If the hose is frozen, first you need to unfreeze it. In most cases you can use the hose after this.

If water is supplied in sufficient quantity, there is another reason of defect. The most common reasons of failure are blocked hose or nozzle. Defect appears as a result of washer pump wear. It is rather expensive to demount the washer pump as it is located in an inaccessible place. Sometimes it is necessary to demount other car parts (bumper, for instance) to reach the pump. In our wide assortment you will find carburettor, washing nozzle, water cooled radiator, timing belt cover, moulding and protective strip, ignition cable, tie rod, control unit and other spare car parts. Visit our online store!

How to detect faults of the windscreen washer pump

To check the pump, turn on the ignition without starting the engine and press the windscreen washer stalk. If you cannot hear its electric motor operating, the component is out of order.

You can tell if the washer pump needs to be checked by the following signs:

• the windscreen washer nozzles – as well as the rear window and headlight washer nozzles if your car has these – are not supplied with washer fluid;
• there are streaks of fluid on the hoses, and the reservoir has to be topped up more often than usual;
• the component has been damaged, for example while repairing nearby parts.

Causes of washer pump failure

The device usually fails due to being overloaded, for example when the car is used in dusty areas. In these conditions you have to wash the windscreen very often, which may result in a blown fuse. A voltage surge in the car’s electrical system causes an open circuit in the wiring that connects the washer stalk to its electric motor, or a fuse failure. Strong vibrations in the engine compartment may loosen the terminals and disconnect the internal shafts of the pump. Poor quality washer fluid and the ingress of dirt in the fluid reservoir increases the load on the electric motor and can cause it to burn out. The ingress of moisture in the mechanism leads to corrosion of the terminals and metal parts.

Washer pump repair

Sometimes, to fix a fault, you just have to replace the fuse and damaged hoses. Slight corrosion of metal elements can be cleaned. However, in most cases a new pump should be installed.

Washer pump replacement

You can replace this part yourself. To do this, you need to:

1. Ensure easy access to the pump. For example, you may need to remove the wheel arch cover and the front bumper.
2. Drain the washer fluid and, if necessary, remove the reservoir.
3. Disconnect the electrical terminals and hoses from the component and remove it.
4. Install the new component, connect the hoses, wires, and the reservoir.
5. Pour the new washer fluid into the reservoir.
6. Check the operation of the part: turn on the ignition and press the stalk. If the component is in good order you will hear a characteristic sound from under the bonnet, and the fluid will be sprayed evenly from the nozzles.