Symptoms of a Faulty or Faulty Windshield Washer Pump

Common symptoms include uneven washer fluid spray, no splatter on the windshield, and no pump activation when the system is activated.

Believe it or not, one of the easiest parts to maintain in any car, truck or SUV is the windshield washer pump. Although many car owners experience problems with their windshield washer system at some point in their car ownership, proper maintenance, using only windshield washer fluid, and replacing washer nozzles as they wear out can keep your washer pump running almost forever. Sometimes all this is difficult to do, which can lead to wear or complete failure of the windshield washer pump.

The windshield washer pump is designed to draw windshield washer fluid from the reservoir through the supply lines to the spray nozzles and onto the windshield. When all these components work together, they make it possible to remove road grime, grime, dust, pollen, grime and bugs from view. The windshield washer pump is electronic and wears out over time. It can also be damaged by trying to spray washer fluid when the reservoir is empty. The washer fluid acts like coolant as it passes through the pump, so if you run it dry there is a chance it will overheat and get damaged.

There are several warning signs that may indicate that a windshield washer pump problem exists and needs service or replacement by a certified mechanic in your area. Here are a few of these symptoms to be aware of that indicate a potential problem with your washer pump.

1. Washer fluid is sprayed unevenly

When you pull back on the washer control lever or activate the washer fluid by pressing a button, the washer fluid should spray evenly onto the windshield. If it doesn't, it's most likely due to one of two things:

• Blockage inside lines or nozzles
• Washer pump not fully working

While the pump is usually an all-or-nothing system, there are times when it starts to slow down the pressure or volume of washer fluid it can deliver when the pump starts to wear out. If you notice this symptom, it is recommended that a mechanic check the windshield washer pump and nozzles to find out what the problem is and fix it quickly.

2. Liquid does not splash on the windshield.

If you have this problem, again, it's one of two things. The first and most common problem is that the windshield washer reservoir is empty or the pump is broken. In some cases, the problem could be with the washer nozzles, but if it does, you will see washer fluid flowing behind or near the washer nozzle. Car manufacturers recommend checking the windshield washer fluid level once a week. A good rule of thumb is to open the hood and check the washer fluid every time you fill up with gas. If you're low on fluid, most gas stations sell a gallon of washer fluid that you can easily refill in the reservoir.

By making sure the reservoir is always more than 50 percent full, the chances of pump wear or burnout are greatly reduced.

3. The pump does not turn on when the system is activated

The washer pump makes a distinctive sound when you spray windshield washer fluid onto the windshield. If you press the button and hear nothing and no liquid splatters on the windshield, this indicates that the pump is broken or not receiving power. If so, check the fuse that controls the washer pump to make sure it is not blown and replace it if necessary. However, if the fuse is not the problem, you will have to take your local ASE certified mechanic to replace the windshield washer pump.

A properly functioning windshield washer pump is critical to driving safety and keeping your windshield clear at all times while you are driving. If you notice any of the above warning signs, contact your local ASE certified mechanic via AvtoTachki. Our professional mechanics can come to your home or office at a convenient time for you.