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Top Picks For Washer Pump Related Parts

Recommended Washer Pump Related Parts

Almost every vehicle is equipped with a windshield washing assembly, which includes wiper blades, nozzles, washer pump, motor, and a reservoir. To achieve a clear windshield, a windshield washer pump feeds washing fluid from the washer reservoir to the windscreen via washer nozzles. Then the wiper blades move across the surface of the windscreen cleaning it. The windshield washer pump is driven by a motor that generates pressure enough to feed the washing fluid through feed tubes and out of the nozzles onto the front windshield or, in some cases, the rear window. The washer pump is usually located in the lower portion of the reservoir, which stores the washer fluid. In most cars, the washer pump and reservoir assembly are situated behind the front bumper and in front of one of the front wheels. When the washer switch is engaged, it sends a signal to the control module or the body control module (BCM), which operates the pump, and washer fluid is forced through hoses and the nozzles.

1. Washer Fluid Tank

What is A Washer Fluid Tank?

A washer fluid tank is a hard plastic container that stores your windshield washer fluid and, in most vehicles, also consists of the washer motor. Although its location depends on the layout of the engine compartment, usually it can be found behind the engine block or near the headlights behind the front bumper. The washer fluid tank is made from durable plastic and can be filled through a dedicated opening with a lid located under the hood.

When Should I Replace My Washer Fluid Tank?

Despite being fairly durable, the plastic used in the manufacturing of these washer fluid tanks can become brittle over time, which can lead to cracks. This can lead to leaks and consequently, low washer fluid levels, even after topping up. An overly contaminated washer fluid reservoir can cause uneven spray and, in the worst cases, prevent the fluid from spraying out of the nozzles. The only way to be sure of the fluid reservoir's condition is to carry out a visual inspection and check for fluid leaks or cracks. If you notice the above symptoms or your windshield washer tank is too old and needs replacement soon, get it replaced immediately to ensure a proper functioning system and avoid further issues.


2. Washer Nozzle

What is a Washer Nozzle?

A washer nozzle is a part of your vehicle's windshield washer system that sprays the washer fluid into your windshield before the wipers wipe it away. When the washer fluid is pumped through the feed tubes, it exits under pressure via the orifice at the washer nozzles. These nozzles are located on the hood of the vehicle or just under the windshield near the cowl.

When Should I Replace My Washer Nozzle?

A clogged or broken washer nozzle can hamper your visibility while driving and can create a safety concern. Failing or blocked washer nozzles will display signs like improper spray due to contamination, no spray at all, and fluid leaks around the washer nozzles. Improper spray or no fluid from the nozzles can also be caused due to contamination somewhere else in the system and needs a thorough check. Often the nozzles can get damaged, warped, or worn out due to constant exposure to sunlight or extreme heat. It is recommended to get your washer nozzles replaced if you notice these signs and ensure your windshield washer system works smoothly and efficiently.


3. Wiper Blade

What is Wiper Blade?

Windshield wiper blades are responsible for keeping your windshield clean and they do that by moving back and forth, wiping mud, snow, rain, and wiper fluid off the windshield. The wiper blades are attached to wiper arms, which are driven by the wiper motor and they feature a thin rubber strip that drags across the windscreen leaving no streaks. The blades are attached to a single point in the middle, but a series of arms branch out, connecting the blade from several places which allow exerting an even pressure across the length. Conventional, Flat, and Hybrid wiper blades are a few types of wiper blades, but flat wiper blades are mostly used on vehicles today. They feature tensioned metal flexors that support the rubber element and form a blade profile that exactly matches the windscreen for uniform pressure. They are also available in different sizes, with rubber and often synthetic compounds for superior blade flexibility to withstand hot and cold weather conditions. To find the right type of wiper blade for your vehicle refer to this guide on choosing between wiper blade types

When Should I Replace My Wiper Blades?

The thumb rule is to replace your wiper blades once every year. But you may have to replace them sooner because they can often wear out prematurely due to poor blade quality, extreme weather, and driving conditions, etc. When your wiper blades start to deteriorate or fail, they will show some symptoms like loose, cracked, or stiff rubber on the wiper blades, resulting in an unclear windshield. A simple visual inspection is enough to notice any signs of cracks, tears, rounded edges, or if the rubber is splitting away from the frame. Corroded joints and blade frames are another sign of a potential failure. Finally, if your wiper blades chatter and screech while operating, offering a streaky wipe across the windshield, your blades are old or damaged and need replacement.


4. Wiper Motor

What is Wiper Motor?

A wiper motor serves the simple purpose of powering the windshield wipers of your vehicle. As the wiper motor spins, it rotates a mechanism that includes a worm gear, an arm, and, finally, the windshield wiper blades that clear the dust and debris off the windscreen, increasing visibility. A wiper motor assembly comprises several components, including the motor itself, a gear mechanism, connectors, and switch. A wiper motor is usually located under the hood cowl, in the engine bay. However, some cars also have a separate wiper motor located at the rear for the rear window. The gear mechanism comprises a worm and a wheel gear that multiplies torque and transfers it to the wiper arms. A wiper motor also consists of a park switch that keeps supplying power to the wiper arms after you turn off the wiper switch so they can rest at a parked position without obstructing your view.

When Should I Replace My Wiper Motor?

The most common symptom of a failing wiper motor is slow-moving wipers. Often the wipers will only move at one speed or not move at all, indicating a problem with the wiper motor. Another sign of a failing wiper motor is when wiper blades refuse to park in the correct position. A failing or poor wiper motor will cause humming sounds along with the aforementioned symptoms, which happens when the wiper motor receives power but cannot transfer it to the wiper blades. Often, a bad wiper relay can also be a cause for this particular problem. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your wiper motor checked and replaced if faulty.


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