What to Do If the Windshield Washer Reservoir Is Leaking?
2 Answers
The windshield washer reservoir is recommended to be replaced immediately if it is leaking, as it cannot be repaired. Therefore, once a leak is detected, the only solution is to install a new one. The windshield washer reservoir in a car is located in the engine compartment. In some vehicles, it is situated behind the headlights, while in others, it is behind the fender. Windshield washer fluid is something every car owner will encounter during vehicle use, as it is used to clean the windshield. When using windshield washer fluid in winter, it is crucial to choose a product with a sufficiently low freezing point. Otherwise, the fluid is highly prone to freezing. When the liquid freezes, its volume expands, which can easily damage the washer reservoir and cause leaks. If the windshield washer fluid freezes in the nozzle's piping, it can easily lead to pipe rupture.
Last time I couldn’t spray water on my windshield and then realized the washer fluid reservoir was leaking. I quickly grabbed a large bucket to catch the dripping fluid to prevent it from corroding the chassis wiring. The most common causes of leaks are cracks at the bottom of the reservoir or loose hose connections—like my old car, where the car wash worker yanked the hose and broke the clip. For a temporary fix, you can seal the crack with plastic welding adhesive to last a week or two, but a long-term solution requires replacing the part. Remember to refill with dedicated windshield washer fluid, as tap water can leave deposits and clog the nozzles. During repairs, it’s advisable to check the washer pump as well. Replacing the reservoir costs around a hundred bucks, but it’s not worth risking poor visibility and potential accidents.
