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Windscreen Washers Not Working

Washers that spray nothing usually have an empty or frozen reservoir, blocked jets, a split or disconnected hose, a failed pump or a blown fuse.

Normal risk

Fix it soon. A dirty windscreen you cannot clean is a safety risk, and washers are often checked at inspection.

Short answer · Why are my windscreen washers not working?

When you pull the stalk, a pump in the reservoir pushes fluid through hoses to the jets. If you hear the pump but nothing sprays, check for blocked jets or a disconnected hose. If you hear nothing, the reservoir may be frozen, the pump failed or the fuse blown. Water instead of screenwash can freeze in winter.

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Safe checks you can do

  1. Check the fluid levelTop up with proper screenwash.
  2. Listen for the pumpA hum without spray points to jets or hoses.
  3. Clear the jetsGently clean them with a pin.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. Does the pump hum?Jets or hoses.
  2. Is it freezing outside?Frozen fluid.
  3. Does the rear washer work?Some cars share one pump.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Empty reservoirSimplest cause.
  2. Frozen fluidPlain water used.
  3. Blocked jetsPump runs, no spray.
  4. Split or loose hoseFluid leaks under the bonnet.
  5. Failed pump or fuseNo sound at all.

Questions about Windscreen Washers Not Working

Can I use plain water?

Not in winter; it freezes and cleans poorly.

Is the pump expensive?

Usually not.