Windshield wiper fluid reservoir: replacement and selection

When and why a windshield wiper fluid reservoir needs replacement

Operational lifetime of a windshield wiper fluid reservoir is not specified. Mechanical damages (cracks, punctures) of the component are causes of its replacement.

The washer fluid reservoir may break down as a result of road accident. Moreover, this part can often get damaged during slipshod repairs of other car units.

Defects of this car part are indicated by leakage of windshield washer fluid. Its traces can be easily found under the front car wheels. Moreover, excessive consumption of fluid can be a sign of a broken reservoir.

Replacement of the windscreen washer reservoir should be entrusted to professionals at a service station. It is quite a laborious process, as some other parts, hindering access to this component will often require demounting. Depending on the car design, the bumper and wheel arch covers may have to be demounted.

How to select windshield wiper fluid reservoir

According to the manufacture method reservoirs are divided into one-piece and assembled. Besides, there are reservoirs with built-in pump, cap and washer fluid level sensor, as well as reservoirs without auxiliary equipment. The latter are cheaper, they are a good buy when other elements are working and only the reservoir itself is subject to replacement. Parts equipped with auxiliary units are needed for a comprehensive repair of the windshield wiper system.

The components may be equipped with one or two pumps. For example, there are reservoirs for the windshield washer and rear window washer with one pump, and reservoirs which are used for headlight washers as well – with two pumps.

Durability of these components greatly depends on their manufacturers. In order to make the car part serve you faultlessly and for long, opt for products of reliable brands with good reputation. For example, high-quality windshield wiper fluid reservoirs are presented in the assortment of Blue Print, Febi Bilstein, JP Group, Vaico, etc.

Selecting the component consider the brand, model, body type and manufacturing year of the car. Windshield wiper fluid reservoirs can vary in capacity significantly. For example, there are parts holding from 1.5 to 10 liters on the average, according to which car they are intended for. In addition, you need to consider the fastening type, quantity of pumps and their location.