What is a windshield washer pump?
Mounted at the bottom of the windshield washer fluid reservoir is a small pump that sends washer fluid to the windshield and, in some vehicles, the headlights or rear window.
How does the windshield washer pump work?
If you press your window washer, and you hear a buzz or hum, that is the windshield washer fluid pump. The pump is activated by the button on the steering wheel, and in some models, this is done indirectly through a signal from the vehicle's computer.
What are the symptoms related to a bad windshield washer pump?
When the windshield washer pump fails to activate the washer nozzles, and the normal buzzing sound is not heard, the windshield washer fluid pump or the electrical circuit is faulty. Also, these pumps crack and leak occasionally, and if water is accumulating on the bottom of the windshield washer fluid pump, the pump or reservoir must be replaced.
Can I drive with a windshield washer pump problem?
Driving without windshield cleaning components is not typically considered unsafe, but there will be no system to properly clean your field of vision if the need arises. If the windshield cleaning system is heavily relied upon in your location, consider repairing the system sooner than later. Also, this system works together to clean and protect the windshield, when one component fails, the risk of damage to the windshield is elevated. Lack of lubrication, incorrect windshield wiper angle, and worn windshield wiper blades are all causes of streaking, grooving, and scratching the path of the windshield wipers into the windshield.
How often do windshield washer pumps need to be replaced?