Rear window washer fluid diagnostics??

[Legback]

I can hear the motor pumping however a once weak stream has ceased completely. Is there a crack in the line somewhere??? Thanks!

[gbhrps]

Try unclogging the nozzle first. It may simply be plugged up. Try using a set of the thin nozzle reamers that welders use to clean their torch nozzles with. They are all of various sizes and you should be able to find one that matches the fluid nozzle opening. If doesn't correct the problem you'll have to start at the pump and start by pulling the hose that goes to the rear of the car. See if it it squirts fluid when you push the switch. From there follow the hose as it disappears through the firewall for any breaks. From inside the car it goes up the driver's A pillar and along the roof on that side of the car to the rear D pillar and across the top back of the car to where it exits the body and enters the tailgate. (At least this is the route it followed in my 02 OutBack Wagon, when I dropped the headliner for sunroof repairs.) I would expect that inside the tailgate there is a one way checkvalve that prevents fluid dribbling out the nozzle unless its under pressure from the pump. It too could be plugged, if so equipped. Good Luck!

[Mark-O-Back]

It could be a simple as low washer fluid level. As the level drops the pump for the rear window starves first. That's how my 97 goes anyway.

~Mark

[Subarupusher]

The wife's 96 Impreza Outback had the wire harness for the pump and lock split right where it curves up in the right corner of the of the hatch. Neither the pump or lock would activate. The dealer ordered a part and then lost track of the order when they moved their shop. We took it to an independent on the next oil change and they reconnected the existing wires and threw some goop over it. That lasted until this year. We took it back to the dealer (now more organized with new owner and shop personnel) and they put the right part in and everything works.

 

Maybe your wire harness is starting to split and short or it could be the tubes are clogged or askew. One of my friends had the tube come loose it was doing a good job of trying to clean his interior. Nothing like wondering where that wet spot in your carpet is coming from.