What is the Windshield Washer Reservoir all about?

Windshield washers serve a simple yet extremely important purpose. A dirty windshield obstructs the driver’s view. They are important especially in very cold climates or in areas with a lot of dirt roads. The windshield washer reservoir holds the fluid that is sprayed onto the windshield. The windshield washer reservoir is usually made of a white, semi-transparent durable plastic and will often have a black or colored plastic cap. The capacity of the fluid reservoir depends on the make and model of your vehicle, but usually ranges from 1 to 1.5 gallons.

Keep in mind:

• Frozen washer fluid is a big contributor to cracks in the reservoir.
• Different washer fluids are approved for different seasons; make sure to use the correct season's fluid.
• Repairs may slow the leaking, but most cracked reservoirs need to be replaced completely.

How it's done:

• The vehicle hood is raised and secured in the open position
• The windshield washer reservoir is unbolted from inner fender and removed
• The washer lines are cleaned and flushed out
• The new washer reservoir is connected and installed then filled with washer fluid
• The wipers and washers are tested for proper operation

Our recommendation:

Read your owner's manual to see if the manufacturer suggests certain fluids for certain reservoirs. For example, the reservoir to headlight-mounted washers may only take non-freezing fluid as the headlights do not get as warm as the windshield in cool weather. Have one of our expert mechanics inspect the whole windshield washer system when inspecting the reservoir. A reservoir with a crack should be replaced.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Windshield Washer Reservoir?

• Low or no pressure when activating the washers
• Fluid leaking out from under the vehicle
• Filling the reservoir more often than usual
• Sprayers don’t spray far enough on the windshield or do not spray enough fluid

How important is this service?

This service is fairly important to the average driver and very important to those in cold climates or in areas with lots of dirt roads. Both road salt and ice can obstruct a windshield without anti-freezing washer fluid in the reservoir. Dust and mud can become too thick to wipe away with just the wipers.