Windshield Wiper Fluid Not Coming Out: Causes and Fixes

When your vehicle’s windshield wiper fluid fails to spray, it can be a real inconvenience, especially during a drive.

From having no fluid emerging from the nozzle to only one side working or even none at all, it’s clear something’s wrong.

Regardless of what the symptoms are, this article is for you. We will examine the causes of this malfunction, provide tips to fix it and estimate how much it will cost to replace the washer pump.

Sit back and enjoy while I walk you through easy do-it-yourself guides to repair your windshield washer.

What would cause Windshield wiper fluid not coming out?

There are various culprits behind a not-spraying wiper fluid issue. Common ones include Clogged nozzles, low washer fluid, damaged washer hose, blown a fuse, wiring problems, frozen fluid, leakage, defective washer pump, etc.

Let’s delve into some of these causes:

Clogged nozzles.

Most car nozzles are on the car’s hood. In some vehicles, they are between the hood and the windshield.

In addition, it is possible that the nozzles are clogged with debris. One identifiable symptom includes confirming the pump work with fluid in the reservoir, but no fluid is coming out—more explanation under the fix section.

Low washer fluid

It is easier to forget to check or fill their reservoir before it runs dries. We recommend refilling the washer fluid at least once in 6 months or earlier, depending on how much you use.

Also, check for cracks or leaks around the reservoir or hose. If there are no cracks, check that the fluids aren’t frozen, especially during winter. Using the spray on low fluid may cause the pump to get burnt due to a lack of fluid.

Blown a fuse and electrical faults

Fuses in the car prevent damage to electrical components. Instead of a damaged component, the fuse absorbs the unpredictable current, resulting in a blown fuse.

You want to inspect the “Wiper Sw Fuse (10 Amp).” for damage. The electrical pump won’t work if you have a blown fuse.

Defective washer pump

The washer pump helps transport fluid from the reservoir through the supply line or hose and spray it via the nozzle.

When damaged, it cannot transport the fluid. Because the washer pump is constantly working when you spray fluid, it gets worn out or easily damaged over time.

This damage occurs when you try to spray fluid when there is little or no fluid in the reservoir. It causes heat and more friction.

Clogged or damaged hose

Also, the hose transferring fluid to the nozzle may be damaged or clogged, preventing fluids from flowing.

You will have to lose and inspect the hose for tears or damages. If discovered, the hose must be immediately replaced.

Frozen fluid

Frozen fluids commonly cause windshield wiper fluid not coming out, especially in winter. We recommend taking precautions during winter to prevent frozen fluids. Such include.

How do you fix if Windshield wiper fluid not coming out?

Follow these steps to diagnose and fix your windshield pump issue carefully.

Step 1: Inspect the windshield Washer pump

A wiper fluid pump not working is caused by low fluid in the reservoir, causing overheating of the motor. Here is how to test the windshield washer pump:

To inspect the pump, turn your ignition to the accessory position.
Push the sprayer button and pay attention to the whining or buzzing sound from the hood.
If you don’t hear any sound that the engine is working, you need to replace the washer pump.
You may need to drain the windshield washer fluid if you think it is contaminated.

Step 2: Check for leaks.

If the pump is working fine, you want to inspect for leakages in the system. Check for puddles of water under the vehicle.

Leakage may happen from cracked reservoirs or broken lines. Here is how to spot them:

Fill the reservoirs and watch for leaking around the container.
Inspect the washer lines for brakes or cracks. First, disconnect the line from the nozzle. The lines are fine if water comes out at the end of the line without leaking.
Check the plastic connector fittings. These fittings are prone to break or get clogged. So ensure neither is the cause.

Step 3: Check for a clogged pump filter.

If you have done steps one and two and still not getting water, check for a clogged pump filter. Debris may have covered the filters due to prolonged dryness. If so, replace the filter with a new one, or you can try to clean the dirt off with water.

Step 4: Clear the clogged nozzle.

Also, the nozzle may be clogged with dirt, so you must clear the blockage or have the nozzle replaced. If you are tight on budget, here is how to clear the nozzle.

Get a thin pin that can fit into the nozzle.
Unclog the nozzle using the pin.
Try spraying to see if the nozzle is free.
Repeat the process to attain the desired result if the windshield wiper fluid barely comes out.

Note: If the front windscreen washer is not working, but the back is, repeat these steps for the back windscreen.

Step 5: Use anti-freeze wiper fluid.

Anti-freeze wiper fluids have freezing points as low as -50℉ and are great for winter. However, if your fluids freeze in the reservoir, simply let your car warm for a few minutes. The heat of the engine will defrost the fluid. We recommend packing in warm surroundings or a garage to keep the fluids warm.

Reference YouTube Video:

How much does it cost to replace a windshield washer pump?

The total cost of windshield washer pump replacement in 2023 will range between $65 and $225. Labor costs are estimated between $70 and $100, while the pump cost anywhere from $60 to $80.

Conclusions

Promptly addressing issues with your windshield wiper fluid is essential for your safety. Clear visibility is crucial in avoiding potential hazards. If the problem persists despite following these steps, don’t hesitate to seek professional help or visit “windscreen washer repair near me.”