Windshield Washer Pumps Maintenance

Windshield Washer Pump: A Tool We Take For Granted

Whether you are a hard-core petrolhead or just someone who likes to go for a drive now and again, we can all agree that a dirty windshield is not fun at all. That’s where the washer pump comes in – but imagine if it didn’t.

Imagine that you are going for a drive on a busy highway and it suddenly starts raining. Water droplets build up on the windshield, so you do what you normally do. You pull the wiper switch, but instead of the glass becoming clearer, it gets foggier and foggier. You immediately realize that fluid is not coming from the windshield washer pump, and at this point, you can’t even see the light from your own headlights. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you how dangerous that scenario is, but what do you do if that actually happens? I can tell you what I would do. As soon as I notice that the windshield washer pump is not working, I navigate to the shoulder and stop. Activating the emergency lights, I exit the car and go to the front. Now, I’m thinking to myself, “Where is the windshield washer pump located?” That’s when it hits me that there are two places it could possibly be. First, I need to check the motor of the wipers – it’s not there. Then, I look at the washer reservoir, but I remember that some cars have a hidden one. So I pop open the hood and look around. I remember that most cars have their reservoirs at the back of the engine bay, and finally, I see it – the broken wiper fluid pump at the bottom of the windshield. Sadly, at this point, it’s too late to fix, so I will need to replace it.

That is quite possibly the worst-case scenario, and it’s quite frankly speaking a terrifying experience, but there are ways you can prevent this. Instead of wondering how to replace a windshield washer pump in the middle of nowhere, you can catch it before it completely breaks down.

Windshield Washer Fluid Pump Not Working – What’s the Problem?

The way a washer pump works is quite simple. Moving the fluid from the reservoir through the hose and into the nozzles, it is sprayed onto the windshield. As with any other motorized part, however, in time, the washer motor can wear down. This doesn’t mean that with proper care and a bit of luck, the windshield washer pump won’t last for the car’s entire life. A good way to make that happen is to keep your reservoir at full capacity. That’s a little tip I learned from my grandfather. The reason is the fluid does a bit more than simply cleaning your windshield. It also acts as a coolant for the washer motor. Not to mention that if you try to use the pump on an empty reservoir, it will definitely damage it.

How can you tell if it’s already damaged? The most obvious sign is when the washer fluid won’t spray, but you still hear the pump working. There could be two reasons for this: number one, the reservoir is empty. Reason number two, your pump is broken, which, of course, means you will need to find a replacement.

Another way you might tell if a windshield washer is broken – when it works, but it doesn’t spray evenly. Again, there are two possible reasons for this. There might be a blockage inside the pump and even the nozzle or the washer pump itself is simply beginning to wear down.

The final way you can tell if your windshield wiper fluid motor is broken is when the pump doesn’t engage when you activate the system. This is what happens when you pull the trigger or press the button and nothing happens. The usual sound of a working pump is not there, and the fluid is not spraying. This could be either because the washer pump is broken or it is simply not receiving enough electric power.

Since a car is the culmination of many moving parts, it’s normal that from time to time, they will break. That’s why it’s important to know how to deal with them, from a windshield chip repair to a washer pump replacement. The more you learn about troubleshooting the problems, the safer you will be out on the road.

Windshield Washer Fluid Pump Troubleshooting

Any mechanic worth their salt will tell you to check your windshield washer pump or rather the reservoir once per week. It’s also good to pop open the hood every time you go fill up for gas. However, I won’t blame you if you forget every now and again or if you simply don’t have the time. Personally, I am also guilty of disregarding my fluid pump although I try not to make a habit of it. 

If for whatever reason you notice that the windshield washer is not working properly, that doesn’t mean you have to replace it. There are a few ways to troubleshoot the problem, so to say. If you have some sort of blockage inside the washer fluid pump or nozzle, I would recommend taking them out and letting them sit in a bowl of vinegar for a few hours. After which, simply take a canister of compressed air and go through each opening. However, if that doesn’t fix the problem, you will have to go see a professional. I can even recommend some if you like.

Another way you could prevent or fix a broken fluid system is to simply make sure the reservoir always stays above 50% capacity. That way, the likelihood of the windshield washer pump wearing down is reduced. Sometimes, the problem can be as simple as a shifted nozzle. All you have to do in that scenario is simply reposition it. Stick a safety pin in one of the holes, and move the pin around. This will fix the problem, and you will be set. 

Sometimes, however, a problem can’t be fixed with a safety pin or a bowl of vinegar. Sometimes, the problem is so severe that you will need a windshield washer pump replacement, but how would you know what replacement to get?

Best Windshield Washer Pump Replacement – Review Section

All right, I hope we are on the same page on how important it is to remember that a broken windshield washer pump is all that stands between you and safety.

But, is it too late? I mean, you are looking for the best washer pump replacement options. I am not judging you, things happen. Let’s focus on the important thing: what your best options are for the replacement.

1. Keenso 12V Universal Windshield Washer Pump for Car, Van, Bus, and Truck

Sale
Windshield Washer Motor Pump, Keenso SI-AT23011 12V Universal Windshield Washer Pump for Car Van Bus Truck
  • 【Effective & Fast】– This windscreen washer pump can be used to wash and clean your windscreen fast and effectively; Built to pull clean…
  • 【Dual Outlet Design】– The windshield wiper fluid pump has a dual outlet design, which helps to do washing work easily
  • 【Durable & Sturdy】– This washer motor pump is made with high-quality plastic, durable for long time use

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This windshield washer pump replacement has a dual-outlet design, which makes it more efficient. It’s also really durable. The two-pin copper terminal pump is not easy to corrode, and it will last you a long time. At the end of the day, that’s what you want from a windshield washer pump.

This one also has strong washing power and a decent amount of pressure, so the quality is also there – not to mention that it’s easy to install and can fit in any car, bus, truck, or van. The only problems I have with it are the noise it makes for such a tiny washer motor and the fact that it is prone to leaking from the front cover from time to time. Other than that, it’s a decent windshield washer that will get the job done.

Pros
  • Durable
  • Powerful
Cons
  • Unnecessary noise
  • Leakage

2. Exerock 85330-60190 Windshield Washer Pump Motor Front Rear Replacement Compatible with Toyota, Lexus, Mazda, Mercury, Lincoln, and Honda

Exerock 85330-60190 Windshield Washer Pump Motor Front Rear Replacement Compatible with Toyota, Lexus, Mazda, Mercury, Lincoln, Honda 85330-60170 85330-47010 85330-21010
  • 2-pin pump of high performance for better and frequent water spraying
  • Replaces OEM #: 85330-21010 060210-4491 85330-47010 85330-06060 85330 71020 85330-60150 85330-60190 6E53-17664-AA 85330-20190 85330-60170…
  • This Part is used in Front or Rear Windshield – Item included: 1x Washer Pump 1x Rubber Grommet

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The washer fluid pump has a two-pin pump of high performance for a much more accurate spray. It’s also really easy to install. Here is a tip from one of my mechanic buddies to make it even easier. When installing the part, remove the rubber gasket from the pump, and insert it into the reservoir, then push the pump in.

The windshield washer pump replacement, however, has a major flaw. It lacks a filtering grate on intake, so it’s really easy to clog. However, as long as you make sure nothing gets in the reservoir, you should be fine. Another thing that I don’t particularly like about this windshield washer is that it’s not compatible with every car. It only caters to a short list of certain models, and you can find it on the Amazon page.

Despite this, I think this is a pretty good replacement, as long as it’s compatible and you are careful with the reservoir. It will last you a long time and it’s really powerful.

Pros
  • Durable
  • High performance
Cons
  • Limited compatibility
  • Easily clogged

3. Windshield Washer Pump Replacement for Toyota/Lexus – OTUAYAUTO

Windshield Washer Pump Replacement for Toyota/Lexus – OTUAYAUTO Factory OE Style with Grommet 85330-12340
  • Refer to Amazon’s Parts Finder Tool to Insure Fitment – Select Your Vehicle’s Year Make and Model to Make Sure It Fits
  • Universal washer pump replacement for Toyota, Lexus – Full line of 12-volt pumps available for comprehensive vehicle coverage
  • OTUAYAUTO are manufactured from first-quality materials – Chosen specifically for maximum performance and application suitability

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Now here is a washer motor that’s an interesting case. The part only works for the full line of Toyota Lexus, but it’s really amazing in it’s functionality. It’s also really durable and designed specifically to provide more pressure to the spray. You know it’s good when even your mechanic friends recommend it.

The best thing is that it’s really easy to install. What more could anyone want from a washer pump? So if you have any of the Toyota Lexus line, then I would highly recommend this replacement part. You also know you are getting quality because the windshield washer pump connector is electrical, which equals more power. It probably would have been my number one choice if it were not for the limited compatibility.

Pros
  • High quality
  • Easy to install
Cons
  • Limited compatibility

4. Kemimoto Universal Car Windshield Washer Pump

Sale
KEMIMOTO Universal Car Windshield Washer Pump, Washer Fluid Reservoir Bottle Kit with Pump Jet Button Switch 12V Windshield Tank
  • 【Fitment】 Work well with most 12V cars with enough size to fit this washer pump. Universal car KEMIMOTO windshield washer is designed to fit…
  • 【Product Dimension】 The Bottle size:7.08″*3.54″*4.7″, Wiring loom length:48cm.
  • 【Easy Installation】 KEMIMOTO windshield washer kit is fairly simple to install with the manual but will require some mechanical and hands-on…

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This windshield washer pump is my number one pick. After doing a bit of research and consulting some mechanics, I was able to find that this is one of the best washer pumps out there. It has a high-quality build and functionality. Personally, I have been really happy with it.

The replacement part is designed to fit into the bottom of the fluid tank. It also doesn’t have automatic filling, but that’s not that big of an issue. The windshield washer pump replacement has universal compatibility, and it should work perfectly with most cars – apart from the Camry 2000. 

The only major problem I have with this is the installation process. The windshield washer requires some mechanical knowledge and hands-on abilities. There are also no instructions provided, and professional installation is highly recommended.

I consider myself a car enthusiast, and I do have some hands-on experience, but I decided to go to my mechanic friend instead of installing this one myself. So I would recommend you visit a specialist as well.

Pros
  • High quality
  • Durable
  • Powerful
Cons
  • Complicated installation

Conclusion

The car is a culmination of many moving parts, so it’s only natural that stuff breaks. Sometimes, your rearview mirror might fall off, and you have to glue it back on. Sometimes, the windshield washer pump might wear down, so you will need to buy a new one. It has happened to everyone who has owned a car at one point in their lives. It’s important to know which parts are high quality and which will break after a month or two. That’s why I made this short guide to show you not only how to troubleshoot a problem that might arise but to also give you examples of high-quality windshield washer pumps.

Best Selling Windshield Washer Pumps

Bestseller No. 2
Front Windshield Washer Pump W/Grommet 385-232316A 89025062 8-6710 Compatible With Chevrolet Chevy, GMC, Buick, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Isuzu Cadillac
Front Windshield Washer Pump W/Grommet 385-232316A 89025062 8-6710 Compatible With Chevrolet Chevy, GMC, Buick, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Isuzu Cadillac
High Quality .; Easy Installation.; Fitment Info In The Product Description.; Thank you.; If You Have Any…
$8.99 Amazon Prime
SaleBestseller No. 3
Motorcraft Motor And Pump
Motorcraft Motor And Pump
Genuine Motor craft Motor And Pump; Model Number: WG335; Item Package Dimension: 3.375″ L x 2.25″ W x 1.25″ H
$36.30 Amazon Prime
SaleBestseller No. 4
Motorcraft WG-318 Windshield Washer Pump
Motorcraft WG-318 Windshield Washer Pump
Package Dimensions: 5.4 cms (L) x 16.0 cms (W) x 18.3 cms (H); Product Type: Auto Part; Package Quantity: 1
$21.02

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API