How long does it take to change a windscreen washer pump?

Changing a windscreen washer pump is a fairly straightforward job that most car owners can complete themselves in an afternoon. The exact time it takes will depend on the make and model of your car, your mechanical aptitude, and whether you encounter any unexpected issues. On average, plan on spending 2-4 hours to replace a windscreen washer pump.

What is a Windscreen Washer Pump?

The windscreen washer pump is a small electric pump that draws washer fluid from the washer fluid reservoir and pumps it to jets mounted by the windscreen wipers. When you activate the windscreen washers, the pump pressurizes the fluid and sprays it onto the windscreen so the wipers can clear away dirt and debris.

Over time, the pump can fail due to normal wear and tear. Symptoms of a failing washer pump include weak spray from the jets, no spray coming out, or the pump running constantly whether the washers are activated or not. Replacing the pump restores normal windscreen washing function.

Gather the Required Materials

Before starting this project, you’ll need to gather the following materials:

• Replacement windscreen washer pump for your vehicle
• Basic hand tools like screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches
• Flashlight
• Clean rags
• Pan to catch washer fluid
• Optional – new washer fluid

You can purchase a replacement pump at any auto parts store. Provide them with your vehicle’s year, make, and model and they’ll provide the correct part. Expect to pay $20-50 for the pump.

Having all required materials ready beforehand makes the job smoother and prevents delays. Allow about 30 minutes for purchasing parts and gathering tools.

Disconnect the Battery

Before doing any work, disconnect the negative terminal on your vehicle’s battery. This prevents any risks of electrocution or electrical shorts while working on the pump.

Locate the battery in the engine bay. Using a wrench, loosen the nut holding the black negative battery cable. Remove the cable entirely and set it aside. This disconnects all power in your vehicle.

Disconnecting the battery takes about 5-10 minutes.

Locate the Washer Pump

The windscreen washer pump is typically located in the engine bay, mounted near the washer fluid reservoir. On some vehicles, it may be installed behind a fender liner or under the vehicle cowling. Consult your repair manual for the exact location if unsure.

Once located, inspect the pump hoses and electrical connector. Identify how they attach as you’ll need to disconnect them shortly during removal. You may need to clean dirt or debris from around the pump to access the fittings.

Expect to spend 10-15 minutes locating and accessing your washer pump.

Drain the Washer Fluid

Before removing the pump, drain the fluid from the windscreen washer system. This prevents any fluid leaks once the pump is disconnected.

Place a drain pan under the vehicle, then locate the small drain valve or plug on the bottom of the washer fluid reservoir. Use a wrench or pliers to carefully open the valve/remove the plug. Allow all fluid to drain out.

Draining takes about 10-15 minutes. Have a towel ready to catch any drips.

Disconnect the Hoses and Wiring

With the washer fluid drained, you can now disconnect the pump. First, use pliers to detach the two hoses leading to and from the pump. Pinch the clamps and slide them back, then twist the hoses gently to remove them.

Next, remove the electrical connector leading to the pump. Depress the locking tab and pull it free of the pump outlet.

Take care not to damage the hoses or connector to allow re-installation. Set them aside carefully once detached.

Disconnecting all lines and wires takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

Remove the Pump Mounting Hardware

The windscreen washer pump is secured by two or three small bolts. Use the appropriate wrench or socket to loosen and remove the bolts. Carefully pull the pump away and off of the mounting bracket.

On some vehicles, you may need to move clips or brackets to fully free the pump. Inspect how it is mounted as you remove hardware.

Plan for about 10 minutes to fully remove the pump from the vehicle.

Install the New Pump

With the old pump removed, it’s time to install the replacement. First, compare the new pump to the old and make sure they match. Transfer any mounting brackets if required.

Then, place the new pump against the mounting location and reinstall any clips or brackets in their original positions. Replace the mounting bolts and tighten them to the proper torque.

Reattachment takes around 10-15 minutes. Refer to your repair manual for specific torque specs on the mounting hardware.

Reconnect the Electrical and Hoses

With the pump remounted, reconnect the wiring and hoses:

• Slide the electrical connector onto the outlet tab until it clicks into place.
• Attach the outlet hose to the pump using a clamp. Slide the hose on completely and secure the clamp.
• Attach the inlet hose in the same fashion.

Make sure all connections are secure. Double check that the hoses are not twisted and are seated correctly.

Reconnecting all lines and wires takes around 15-20 minutes.

Refill the Washer Fluid

With the new pump installed, the washer fluid reservoir can be refilled:

• Open the reservoir cap and fill with new washer fluid until it reaches the “Full” mark.
• Replace the cap and wipe up any spills.

Properly filling the reservoir prevents the pump from trying to operate while dry, which can damage it.

Allow 5-10 minutes to top off the washer fluid. Consider using a fluid with antifreeze if temperatures will drop below freezing.

Reconnect the Battery

The final step is to reconnect the vehicle’s battery:

• Place the negative battery cable back on the terminal and tighten the retaining nut.
• Verify that it is securely reattached.

Reconnecting the power only takes a couple minutes. Make sure to check battery cables regularly for corrosion and damage.

Test Operation and Check for Leaks

Before driving the vehicle, test the washer system:

• Sit in the driver’s seat and activate the washers.
• Verify spray comes from the jets with adequate pressure.
• Inspect the pump and hoses for any leaks.
• Check fluid level and top off if needed.

Allow 10-15 minutes to test and inspect. Take the vehicle for a quick test drive to confirm normal operation.

Conclusion

While the exact time required depends on your skill level and vehicle, plan on devoting 2-4 hours to replace a windscreen washer pump. Work methodically through each step:

• Disconnect battery – 10 minutes
• Locate pump – 15 minutes
• Drain fluid – 15 minutes
• Disconnect hoses and wiring – 15 minutes
• Remove pump – 10 minutes
• Install new pump – 15 minutes
• Reconnect hoses and wiring – 20 minutes
• Refill fluid – 10 minutes
• Reconnect battery – 5 minutes
• Test operation – 15 minutes

With the right tools and preparation, you can successfully change your windscreen washer pump and restore normal operation. The job requires patience but is not overly complex for most DIYers.