Reasons for Windshield Washer Not Spraying Water
2 Answers
Reasons for the windshield washer not spraying water are as follows: 1. Check if the windshield washer fluid (glass cleaner) is depleted, causing the pump to fail in drawing it up. 2. Determine if there is any sound from the pump when activating the spray lever (switch). If not, the pump may be burnt out. 3. If there is washer fluid and the pump is making noise, you can open the engine hood to check if the washer fluid supply hose is leaking. 4. If none of the above issues are present, inspect whether the spray nozzles near the windshield wipers are clogged. 5. If the spray nozzles are clogged, try clearing them with a needle. If that doesn't work, you may need to replace the spray nozzles.
Having driven for decades, it's common to encounter issues with windshield washer fluid not spraying. Generally, there are several reasons to check: the washer fluid reservoir might be empty and need refilling, the spray hose could be clogged or cracked often due to dust or insect blockages, the spray nozzles may be clogged with dirt or frozen preventing water flow, the washer pump might be burnt out and fail to start, or a blown fuse could cut off power supply. In some cars, a faulty wiper switch can also cause malfunction. During cold winters, water freezing can directly block the nozzles, requiring preheating. For DIY troubleshooting, first check the washer fluid level, listen for a humming sound from the pump—no sound might indicate a broken motor, then inspect if the nozzles are misaligned or clogged and try clearing them with a small needle. Regular maintenance includes periodically replacing washer fluid to prevent clogs. If the car sits unused for long periods, battery drain might cause electrical issues, so timely charging is necessary. In short, malfunctioning windshield washers severely impact rainy-day visibility and safety—don't delay, address the issue promptly or visit a repair shop.
