Windshield washer not working

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Jan Kalin - 08 Apr 2004 15:10 GMT

Hi all,

I have a small problem with my 525i E34, the windshield washer doesn't
work. I had some antifreeze in the washer tank and wanted to get rid of
it before filling a summer detergent. I used the winter fluid until the
tank was empty and then filled the tank with the summer mixture. However,
from that point on nothing is coming out of the nozzles. The pump is
working, and there are no leaks. Is there a chance that some sort of
airlock could have occurred at the pump or could it be just a coincidence.
Any ideas?

Cheers, Jan

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Bob - 08 Apr 2004 17:16 GMT

Often corrosion or foreign matter can clog the lines, usually right at the
nozzle.

Use a pin to clear the nozzle. If that doesn't do it, remove the hose and
check for clog. Make sure the pump is running when you operate it; if not,
check the fuse.

I don't think the kind of liquid you use makes much difference.

Bob

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Steve Burley - 08 Apr 2004 21:43 GMT

Sometimes gunk can clog the lines. If you disconnect the lines and jam the
nozzle of a hand pump or compressor in there you can usually blow all the
crap out. You will also often need to clean the jets out with a pin.
This all assumes your squirty motor is going, which you should be able to
hear with the engine not running - if not, check the wires to the motor as
they usually last forever.

Steve

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Rod Gray - 16 Apr 2004 02:16 GMT

A pin is to big to clear the nozzles. You need a very small wire. A guitar
string ,E or B works good. Or a wire tag. Any dealer uses them. Just stop by
and ask one of the parts guys for one. Thats what we used at the dealership
to clear them. Also there is a check valve under the hood cover where the
lines split to go to the left and right nozzles. That gets stopped up too.
Three or four
buckes for it or just put in a plastic tee.

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