Visibility Disaster! (Windshield Washer Pump Replacement)
September 11, 2022
Let's say you live in a cold climate where the snowy, icy weather challenges you to clear the salt and debris tossed up on your windshield. You push your windshield washer switch expecting a good stream of fluid so the blades can wipe the glass clean. Yet nothing comes out. Nada, zip. What's going on? You know you filled up the windshield washer reservoir within the last week or so.
Well, there could be a few things causing your windshield washing system to fail. One culprit? The hoses that are supposed to carry that fluid from the washer pump to the spray nozzles may be frozen, or maybe they're cracked and leaking. It could be the nozzles themselves are stopped up, either iced up or jammed full of debris. Your windshield wiper/washer switch could be worn out or the electrical system may not be conducting power to the washer pump.
It's important that this system work properly, especially on days when the sun may be in front of you and your windshield is covered with a cloudy, icy mess. Seeing what's going on in front of you may be like trying to peer through frosted glass, and that's not a safe situation for you or the drivers around you. You need to have this checked out by a technician as soon as you can.
Let's say the technician discovers it's not any of those components. Turns out it's the electric windshield washer pump itself that's failed. After replacing it, everything is working fine, and you can see again. As so often is the case with today's complex vehicles, figuring out the root cause of a problem can be tricky. Rely on your vehicle service facility since they have the know how and diagnostic equipment to make sure your view of the road will always be crystal clear.
Star Lube Centerton
550 W Centerton Blvd
Centerton, Arkansas 72719
479-795-1060
https://www.starlubecenterton.com
Need Service?
More articles from Star Lube & Auto Repair

Steer Clear of Power Steering Problems (Power Steering Maintenance)
September 8, 2025
We usually take our vehicle's easy steering for granted until something goes wrong. Power steering is what makes it almost effortless to turn the steering wheel, aiming your vehicle in the direction you want to go. Without the assistance of power from the engine, steering would be a laborious pr... More

The Flat Fix that Fits (Tire Repairs)
September 1, 2025
Can you think of anyone who likes getting a flat tire? Of course not. But when one of your tires winds up with a flat or leak, whether it be from things like hitting a curb, running over a nail or picking up a sharp stone, it's time to have someone who knows what they're doing take care of it. ... More

The Engine Gets a Boost (Turbocharged Engine Maintenance)
August 25, 2025
If someone told you that your vehicle could have the same power but with a smaller engine, wouldn't that sound like great idea? Just think, a smaller engine would save you money at the gas station and you'd still get the same horsepower. The technology to do just that has been around for a long t... More