Car trouble · Wipers & glass

My windshield washer isn’t spraying

You pull the washer lever and nothing comes out, or only a dribble.

Not urgent

A starting point, not a diagnosis. Most parts stores read check-engine codes and test batteries for free.

Likely causes — tick the parts you want

  1. An empty washer fluid tank

    most likely · Most people can do this

    How to check: Open the hood and find the tank with the windshield-and-spray symbol on the cap. If it is empty, fill it and try again.

  2. Clogged spray nozzles, or frozen fluid

    possible · Most people can do this

    How to check: If you hear the pump hum but nothing sprays, the nozzles may be blocked. In cold weather, plain water in the tank may have frozen.

  3. A failed washer pump or blown fuse

    less likely · Doable with tools and a free afternoon

    How to check: If the tank is full and there is no hum at all when you pull the lever, check the washer fuse, then the small pump at the bottom of the tank.

Your car — the counter needs this

If the counter doesn’t have a part, your shopper asks them to order it under your name and messages you the order number. When it comes in, send someone to collect it.

Not quite it?

My wipers streak or smear
My windshield washer isn’t spraying — likely causes and the parts · DriverRuns