Ford Focus Windscreen Washer Blocked? Quick Answer

If dirt or debris ends up on your windshield while driving, your immediate reaction would be to use the washer fluid spray to remove it. If your car’s wiper fluid isn’t spraying properly, the wiper fluid nozzles or lines may be clogged, which is not only annoying but potentially dangerous.

Over time, windshield wiper nozzles can become clogged with debris that builds up on your car. While it may take a while before you notice this, cleaning these nozzles regularly can help keep this from becoming a problem.

Washer water lines rarely clog on their own and usually fail when pollutants or dirt are present in the wiper water. Sometimes when people try to make their own wiper fluid, the mixture congeals, especially in colder temperatures, causing the lines to become clogged.

Review the following tips on how to avoid and fix clogs when they occur.

Part 1 of 5: Examine the nozzles

On most vehicles, the nozzles are either mounted in the gap between the hood and windshield or on the trunk. On some cars, the nozzles are attached to the wipers themselves, making this type of repair difficult. There are often telltale signs that a wiper fluid nozzle is clogged. To identify the source of the problem, you should first check your car’s windshield washer nozzles for any visible debris.

Step 1: Look for large deposits. Large debris such as leaves or twigs can be easily removed by hand, although you may need to use tweezers or needle-nosed pliers to remove debris stuck to the nozzles.

Step 2: Check for fine deposits. You may need to blow or brush out any other fine debris such as dust, pollen or sand from all nozzles.

If you live in a location with prevalent snowstorms, you may also have to deal with excess snow clogging the nozzle. As a precautionary measure for both your own safety and the safety of other drivers, it is important to always thoroughly remove snow from your car.

Part 2 of 5: Clean nozzles

After you determine what type of debris is clogging the windshield washer nozzle, you can use one or more of the following steps to clear the nozzles.

Materials needed

compressed air

Old toothbrush or brush

thin wire

Warm water

Step 1: Use compressed air to blow away debris. A clogged nozzle can be removed by simply blowing away the debris. Using a can of condensed air, blow a concentrated stream of air into the clog and dislodge the debris.

Step 2: Clean the nozzles with a toothbrush. You can also use an old toothbrush and some warm water to clean your car’s wiper water nozzles. Dip the brush in warm water and vigorously scrub in and around the nozzle to remove dirt and debris that may be causing the clog.

Tip: Test the wiper fluid after each step to see if the fluid is spraying properly.

Tip: For more serious clogs, use a small piece of thin wire and push it into the nozzle. You may be able to push through or pull out the debris that is causing the clog.

Part 3 of 5: Clean hoses

Materials needed

compressed air

needle nose pliers

Cleaning the washer fluid hoses is a more invasive process and involves removing part of the hose to get to the source of the clog.

Step 1: Access the wiper fluid hoses. To do this, open the hood of the car and follow the lines that run from the washer fluid reservoir to the nozzles.

Note: Usually these are small black hoses with a Y-shaped fitting that connects both nozzles in your vehicle to the washer fluid reservoir.

Step 2: Remove the hoses from the coupler. Three separate hoses are connected to the Y-shaped coupling. Use needle nose pliers to remove the hoses from the coupler.

Once removed, you should have access to the fluid lines leading to each spray nozzle.

Step 3: Blow compressed air into the hose. You can try to blow the blockage out of the line with compressed air. Connect a hose to the compressed air can, and then use air pressure to clear the clog. Repeat the step for the other hose.

Reattach the hoses and try using the washer fluid spray to check that the clog has cleared. If the spray doesn’t work properly after these steps, you may need to try other methods.

Part 4 of 5: Check the check valve

Materials needed

Step 1: Look at the check valve. Some wiper water setups are equipped with a check valve. Check valves retain fluid in the wash lines instead of allowing it to flow back into the fluid reservoir when the syringe is shut off.

A check valve allows for more instantaneous spraying of washer fluid. On a car without a check valve, it may take a few seconds for the washer pump to build up enough pressure to spray the water onto the windshield. While the check valve is handy, it can also clog and prevent washer fluid from splashing onto the windshield.

Look at all hoses and check for clogged check valves.

Step 2: Spray compressed air to clear the clog. To clear a clogged check valve, you can try removing it and spraying compressed air as above. However, if the valve cannot be removed or repaired, it may need to be replaced.

Check valves are relatively inexpensive, although repairs may involve replacing the hoses themselves.

Part 5 of 5: Look for other problems

Step 1: Check the wiper fluid hose. While it can be beneficial to check your wiper fluid lines and nozzles for clogs, you should also check your vehicle for other washer problems.

Over time, washer fluid hoses can fail, allowing washer fluid to leak into the engine compartment. This may also explain why your wiper fluid isn’t spraying freely.

Step 2: Check the wiper fluid pump. Another problem that can arise is a problem with the wiper fluid pump itself.

The wiper fluid pump is connected to the fluid reservoir and is responsible for forcing the fluid through the hoses onto the windshield. If a pump fails, you may notice reduced fluid pressure and a weak jet. If a pump fails completely, the fluid may not flow at all and exhibit the same symptoms as a clog.

Broken or clogged washer fluid nozzles or lines are both annoying and potentially dangerous. Regular maintenance of these components ensures their longevity and optimal function.

By following these steps, you can clear any clogs that are preventing your car’s windshield washer system from working properly. If you are still noticing problems with the windshield washer system, have the system thoroughly examined by a professional.

If there is a problem with the wiper water pump or the washer hoses, repairing it yourself can be more expensive and complicated. Get a certified mechanic, e.g. B. one from Vermin-Club to change the windscreen washer pump or the windscreen washer hoses for you.

MOT windshield rules and regulations for cars

Depending on the type of vehicle you have, how old it is and what condition it is in, an MOT is either a routine check or something to fear, which can add up to a hefty list of required costs. While it may be common knowledge that our cars fail an MOT because of a faulty engine, damaged exhaust or other mechanical issue, a pass or fail can also be determined by the condition of the windshield.

In this article, The Windscreen Company looks at the TÜV regulations for windscreens.

TÜV regulations for windscreens

TÜV windscreen regulations mean your glass will be inspected for cracks, chips and scratches, as well as the condition of your wiper blades and wiper fluid.

Many of the TÜV windshield regulations affect the driver’s field of vision. The regulations state that a car will fail its MOT if the view from the windscreen is “significantly impaired” – if only the view of the sky or the bonnet is obstructed, this is no reason for failure. However, scratches or damage that prevent the driver from having a clear view of the road will result in failure. Officially, these are defined as “significant impairment of the driver’s view of the road caused by the swept area of ​​the windscreen or a non-visible mandatory exterior mirror”.

Will a crack in the windshield fail the TÜV?

To bring some numbers to the “Field of View” points above, any crack or chip larger than 1cm in the driver’s field of view is an automatic error. Any crack larger than 4 cm elsewhere on the windshield is also sufficient for failure. In fact, driving with a broken windshield can be considered a traffic offense and is therefore illegal; Read our article on the legality of driving with a cracked windshield here.

If you notice a crack in your windscreen before your MOT, contact a trusted windscreen repair company like The Windscreen Company to have your windscreen repaired or replaced – we’ll fix it so you don’t have to worry about a breakdown .

Will the windscreen fail the TÜV?

A scratch on the windscreen may not result in you failing your MOT, but it is important to note that scratches on the windscreen cannot be repaired. Many people try to polish the scratches on their windshield – this can mask them somewhat, but polishing can actually reduce the strength of the glass. If you notice a scratch on your windshield, you need to have your glass replaced as soon as possible.

Will windscreen wipers fail the TÜV?

You can’t pass your MOT because of your wipers, yes. Your wipers won’t pass your MOT if they can’t wipe dirt off your windshield. A week or two before you take your car or vehicle for MOT, test your wipers by soiling your windshield and see if they can clean it.

Your rear wipers are not MOT, so you don’t have to worry about them letting you down on the big day. However, to be on the safe side, you should make sure they still work and have them repaired or replaced if they don’t.

Will the windshield washer system fail the TÜV?

Windshield washer systems can result in your vehicle not passing the TÜV. If the windshield washer systems cannot supply enough cleaning fluid to the wipers, this can be a reason for a failure. This wiper failure can directly impact the wiper problem – if your wipers aren’t supplying enough fluid, your wipers won’t be able to clean their glass, which in itself is a cause of failure.

As you can see, the condition of your windshield, wipers and even the washer system is critical to passing your MOT. If your windscreen has a chip or crack, or you’re having trouble with your wipers and washers, don’t wait until your car fails MOT – contact The Windscreen Company today and we can repair or replace your windscreen, so that you can continue.

The information in this article was correct at the time the article was last updated, based on information that was openly available online on the subject. The Windscreen Company shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused by or related to any error or omission in this article. You should use your own judgment regarding the use of this document and should seek professional advice about your particular circumstances.

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Do you notice poor performance of your windshield washer system? Or maybe nothing happens when you use your windshield washer lever? There could be a problem with the washer pump – but you can fix that, or fix it yourself if you enjoy tinkering with your car.

Here we provide a complete guide to maintaining a windshield washer pump, from troubleshooting common faults to replacing the pump itself.

Quick links

What is a windshield washer pump and how does it work?

A windshield washer pump is a small pump that delivers fluid from the windshield washer reservoir to the washer nozzles. The pump is powered by a motor, which is needed to generate enough pressure to force the fluid through the washer inlet lines and out of the windshield, headlight or rear window washer nozzles.

Where can I find the windshield washer pump?

The windshield washer pump is attached to the bottom of the windshield washer reservoir. On some cars there may be two pumps and two motors operating both the front and rear windshields. Often the easiest way to get to the windshield washer pump is from under the car, but on some models you may need to remove one of the front wheels and access it through the open wheel well.

If you are not sure where your washer pump is located, follow the washer nozzle leads from the top of the bulkhead (the place where the engine bay meets the passenger compartment). Alternatively, your manual should include a diagram of the engine layout.

Troubleshooting common windshield washer failures

Windscreen washer pumps can develop malfunctions that impair the function of the windscreen washer system or completely prevent spraying. Some common ones are:

Dirt in the nozzles

One of the most common causes of windshield washer problems is clogged washer nozzles. This happens when small particles of dust and dirt get into the nozzles located at the top of the hood and prevent the spray from working.

The repair

Use a safety pin or needle to pierce the jets and unclog them. You may need to spray the washer fluid a few times to clear the clog completely.

Washing machine inlet pipes clogged

Sometimes dirt and debris can get into the feed tubes that lead from the reservoir to the nozzles and this can build up and cause a clog. Symptoms of a clogged washer hose include intermittent splashing or a complete lack of washer fluid from the nozzles.

The repair

Begin by disconnecting the hoses from the washer reservoir; They are held in place by clamps and a rubber grommet so you’ll need a screwdriver to loosen them. Then take an air hose or a can of compressed air and spray the nozzle down so the dirt is pushed out the end of the wash hose. Do not do this the other way around (spray through the hose towards the nozzles) as you will push dirt and debris into the nozzle head where it will be more difficult to remove.

Defective windshield washer pump

If you have cleaned the nozzles and hoses and are still experiencing poor washing performance, there may be a problem with the pump itself. Here’s what to do to fix and diagnose a windshield washer pump:

Have someone turn the washer switch in the car while you put your hand on the container. Listen for the pump to hum and see if you feel a vibration as the switch activates. If not, the pump is defective; If you can, there is likely a clog or leak in the reservoir.

If the pump is not working, turn off the power and access the bottom of the washer fluid reservoir. It may be that the electrical connections are covered in dirt and grime, in which case a simple cleaning could solve the problem.

If not, you’ll need to separate the motor and pump from the reservoir body, which is usually held in place with a couple of screws. When you have done this, turn the ignition back on and use an electrical tester to check that there is power to the pump and motor.

If there is no power, you may need to replace the fuse, which is relatively easy. Just use your manual to locate the fuse box and replace the washer pump fuse with a new one.

If there is power, you may need to replace the windshield washer pump. We’ll show you how to do it below.

How much does a replacement windshield washer pump cost?

A new windscreen washer pump costs between 20 and 60 euros depending on the make and model of your car. You may be able to find cheaper alternatives on sites like eBay.

How to replace a windshield washer pump

Replacing a windshield washer pump is easy; The following steps will show you how it’s done:

Disconnect the old pump from the reservoir if you haven’t already done so before unscrewing the plug holding the feed hoses in place.

Connect the new pump to the electrical connector, hoses and reservoir according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Make sure there’s enough washer fluid in the tank, test the new pump to make sure it’s working properly, and you’re good to go.

Windshield washer pump and system maintenance

There are a few things you can do to maintain windshield washer performance and ensure the pump, hoses and nozzles continue to function as they should. Here are some things to consider:

Always make sure there is screenwash in the reservoir – If you operate the washer jets without there being screenwash in the reservoir, the pump and motor will be heavily loaded, which can lead to malfunctions.

– If you activate the washer nozzles without there being any windscreen washer fluid in the tank, the pump and motor will be heavily loaded, which can lead to malfunctions. Be Careful When Adding Screenwash – Don’t let dirt and dust get into the container when adding screenwash to your car. Most filler caps have a filter to keep bits out, but if they don’t we recommend using a funnel.

– Don’t let dirt and dust get into the container when adding window cleaner to your car. Most filler caps have a filter to keep bits out, but if they don’t we recommend using a funnel. Keep the washer nozzles clean – When washing your car, take a moment to quickly clean the washer nozzles with a pressure washer. You should also try to keep debris out of the nozzles when cleaning; Work away from them to prevent dirt from getting inside.

Keeping your windshield clean and streak-free is easy with Prestone. Our high-performance window cleaner cuts through dirt in all conditions for complete visibility. To find out more, visit our website today.