If you’ve noticed that your windshield washer liquid is running out quicker than usual, or if you notice fluid puddling below your car, chances are your reservoir is cracked and it’s time to get a new one. A windshield washer tank isn’t something you think about very often. In fact, you probably only ever pay any attention to it when replacing your windshield washer fluid. But now that you need to replace it, you might as well learn how to do it yourself, and what you need to know when buying a brand new windshield washer tank with pump.
Buying a windshield washer tank with pump is relatively easy – all you need to do is buy one that fits your vehicle. Replacing the old with a new one can be done in less than an hour, as long as you have everything you need, which is eye protection, a wrench, your manufacturer’s owner’s manual, and the new windshield washer tank.
The first step is to put on your protective eyewear and make sure the area where you’re doing the work is well-ventilated. Your car’s engine should be in park mode and parked on a flat level surface. Then, read through the manufacturer’s owner’s manual and pay special attention to the windshield washer tank. The second step is opening the hood of your vehicle and finding the old tank. Disconnect all fluid hoses from the motor and tank, and if necessary, any wiring from the car’s electrical system. Remove the tank by unscrewing it and depending on your vehicle, you’ll have to remove it from below or above the vehicle. This may also include removing one of your wheels.
If that’s the case and you aren’t comfortable with doing it, then take your vehicle to a service center. If you’re comfortable and have all the right equipment to remove a wheel safely, then continue reading. Now that you’ve removed the old tank, it’s time to install the new one. Again, depending on how you removed the old tank, you’ll have to put the new one in the same manner and screw it into the assembly. Attach the hoses that you disconnected from the old tank onto the new one, and don’t forget the wires (if any) that you disconnected from the electrical system.
And lastly, fill the windshield washer tank up with fluid, turn on the engine, and press the washer fluid button. The fluid should spray from the nozzles on the windshield. As long as the spray is strong and constant, you’re good to go. Otherwise, go back and recheck the hose connections. If you’re unsure about how to properly do it, go to a service shop and have a professional do it for you.
