How To Troublshoot A Vehicle Windshield Wiper Pump
Posted on: 27 May 2018
If you experience uneven fluid spraying, no spray from your windshield wipers, the pump could be defective. The windshield wiper pump removes the windshield wiper fluid through hoses into the reservoir, and it should make a unique sound when you start it.
Windshield wipers can wear out after constant operation, but other issues could be a factor. Follow these troubleshooting tips to diagnose windshield wiper pump problems.
Prepare to Troubleshoot Windshield Wiper Pump
To troubleshoot the windshield wiper pump gather:
- work gloves
- eye goggles
- rags
- sewing needle or pin
- test light
- socket and ratchet set
- electrical cleaner
- deictic silicone grease
- windshield washer pump fuse
- windshield wiper fluid
Shut off the engine, let it cool, and park the vehicle on a flat surface. Switch the ignition to "ON", so the engine has power, but don't start it. Locate the pump reservoir and pump by referring to your manual. Open the cap, check fluid levels, and add fluid, since low fluid levels can cause weak spraying. Lay one hand on the reservoir, get an assistant to turn on the motor to let the fluid circulate, and listen for the pump.
Check the vehicle for leaks. No leaks commonly indicate clogged nozzles or weak pump, and leaks could mean damaged components.
Clean Nozzles and Reservoir
Look for a tiny pipe at the end of the hose, then trace the hose path until you reach a barbed wire. Remove the barbed wire and run the wipers. Fluid coming out of the nozzles mean they are clogged. To clean the nozzles, insert a small needle or pin, rinse with water, and blow them out with your mouth.
Too much gunk in the bottom of the pump reservoir can cause it not to function properly, even with clear nozzles. Disconnect the hoses and wiring, noting how they connect. Use the rag to wipe the reservoir and empty the debris. The reservoir may be left in place and rinsed with water. Inspect all hoses on the pump and replace damaged ones with a similar size.
Test the Pump Fuse
No sound from the pump commonly indicates electrical issues. Locate the windshield wiper pump fuse and use a test light to check for current. Connect the light to any bare metal surface and get an assistant to operate the nozzles as you touch each side of the fuse. The light should flash while connected to both posts if the fuses are good.
Clean the terminals using the electrical cleaner, and lightly coat them with the grease. Place the fuses and test the wipers again. If the nozzles still won't spray, test the reservoir with the light. For more information, contact a company like Car And Truck Services Inc.
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