Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Washer Fluid Level Switch

The windshield washer on a car, truck, or SUV is one of the most overlooked devices. It's often assumed that as long as we fill up the reservoir with windshield washing fluid and change out wiper blades as needed, this system will last forever. However, most drivers depend on a fully functional washer fluid level switch to inform us electronically that windshield washer fluid is running low. When this device fails, it can cause damage to your windshield washing motor and reduce visibility as you drive.

Today's cars and trucks have a windshield washing fluid system that includes multiple components including the washer fluid reservoir, a washer fluid pump, fluid lines, and sprayer nozzles. Together, they allow washer fluid to be pumped up and sprayed on the windshield so that the wipers can clean dirt, grime, pollen, dust and bug debris from the glass. The washer fluid level switch is designed to monitor the level of washer fluid in the reservoir and turn on a warning light in the dash if the level drops too low.

If this switch breaks or is faulty, in addition to not being able to use the system, attempting to spray fluid without enough in the reservoir can actually damage the pump, which is cooled by the fluid moving through it. Using the pump without any fluid can overheat it, and cause it to break entirely. In order to avoid this potentially expensive replacement and repair of your windshield washer system, it's important to be aware of any symptoms or warning signs that a problem with your washer fluid level switch exists.

Here are a few of the common warning signs to be aware of:

1. Windshield Fluid Warning Light does not illuminate

Typically when your windshield washing fluid tank is running low, a warning light will illuminate on the dashboard or on the center console control panel in some newer cars and trucks. If this light does not light up when the tank is low, it can result in overuse of the windshield washer fluid pump and eventually the pump overheating and breaking down entirely. If you try to spray windshield washer fluid on your windshield and only a little bit comes out of the nozzles, you should stop using the windshield washer fluid level immediately. Replacing or repairing a broken level switch is relatively inexpensive and easy. However, if the pump breaks, it is much harder to replace and more expensive to install.

2. Windshield Fluid Warning Light is always on

Another common sign of a broken windshield fluid level switch is when the warning light stays on all the time – even if the tank is completely full. The level switch is designed to measure volume inside the storage tank. When the level of windshield washer fluid is too low, it is supposed to send a signal to the ECU in your car, and then light up the warning light on the vehicle's dashboard. But, if you fill up your tank or it's been completed during a routine oil change or engine service check-up, and the light stays on, it's typically a broken washer fluid level switch.

3. Strange noise comes from the washer fluid pump

When you engage the washer fluid pump by pressing the switch on your turn signal, the pump typically makes a consistent noise in conjunction to fluid spraying out of the washer nozzles onto the windshield. When the pump is running hot due to low fluid, this noise will go from consistent to a grinding type noise. Although it's very hard to describe this noise, you can notice a difference in the tone that the washer pump will make when the tank is low or dry. It's also possible that you might smell burning fluid if the pump gets too hot.

It's always better to fix a minor problem before it turns into a major mechanical expense. As a good rule of thumb, it's a good idea to visually inspect the level of your washer fluid tank once per week, especially during times of the year when you'll use it a lot. Make sure to keep your washer fluid level full at all times and add fluid as needed. If you recognize any of the above warning signs, contact a local ASE certified mechanic as soon as possible so they can repair any damage or replace your washer fluid level switch


Next Step

Schedule Vehicle Body Electrical and Lighting Inspection

The most popular service booked by readers of this article is Vehicle Body Electrical and Lighting Inspection. Once the problem has been diagnosed, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $20.00 off as a credit towards the repair. YourMechanic’s technicians bring the dealership to you by performing this job at your home or office 7-days a week between 7AM-9PM. We currently cover over 2,000 cities and have 100k+ 5-star reviews... LEARN MORE

SEE PRICING & SCHEDULING

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Recent Vehicle Body Electrical and Lighting Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(4)

Rating Summary
4
0
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
0

Matthew

34 years of experience
1438 reviews
Matthew
34 years of experience
Pontiac Firebird V8-5.3L - Vehicle Body Electrical and Lighting Inspection - Newport News, Virginia
Arrived on time, very professional and knowledgeable - especially about my old car.
BMW 428i xDrive Gran Coupe - Brake Pads Replacement (Front) - Newport News, Virginia
Provided great and clear instructions on the process and was done in no time!

Davin

29 years of experience
37 reviews
Davin
29 years of experience
Mini Cooper L4-2.0L Turbo - Car is not starting - Denver, Colorado
Great experience. Excited to have the car fixed finally. Very friendly and professional.
Honda Accord - Battery Terminal Ends - Denver, Colorado
He's awesome

Marco

30 years of experience
329 reviews
Marco
30 years of experience
Ford F-150 V8-5.4L - Vehicle Body Electrical and Lighting - Highland, California
Great experience! Marco showed up right on time and was very polite and pleasant. He got right to work and assessed my problem quickly and made recommendations for repair which I was able to take care of myself later. Very good experience and would definitely use Marco again!

Kris

17 years of experience
97 reviews
Kris
17 years of experience
Chevrolet Cavalier L4-2.2L - Vehicle Body Electrical and Lighting - Acworth, Georgia
Kris was awesome. He listened to my issues and experiences and efficiently diagnosed my car's problem. Kris is the real deal!

Need Help With Your Car?

Our certified mobile mechanics make house calls in over 2,000 U.S. cities. Fast, free online quotes for your car repair.

GET A QUOTE

Related articles

How Long Does a Windshield Washer Tubes Last?
Keeping Keeping a windshield clean is a big part of staying safe while on the roadways. Driving in icy or rainy conditions is not easy, especially if there is an issue with your washer tubes. These tubes are what helps...
How to Clean and Maintain Windshield Washers
When When dirt or debris lands on your windshield while driving, your immediate reaction would be to use the wiper fluid spray to clear it. If your car’s wiper fluid doesn't spray properly, it may have clogged wiper fluid nozzles...
How to Replace a Combination Switch Assembly
Combination switches include the control of turn signals, windshield wipers, windshield washers, and high beams. Faulty switches can cause accidents.

Related questions

How do I use the windshield washer?
The windshield washer provides extra visibility by spraying the windshield with a soapy mixture, and then washing it away. To use the washer, pull the wiper lever (on the right side of the steering column) towards you, and hold it...
Wiper fluid not coming out
Is it really cold outside? If it gets cold enough there is the possibility that the fluid could be frozen in the lines of your washer nozzles. If this is the case, you will need to get the car somewhere...
Front wiper stopped working and is making a ticking noise
Hi there. From the description you have given, it would appear, the front wiper motor may still be operating. The ticking noise could be, the motor turning and wiper linkage is disconnected (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/windshield-wiper-linkage-replacement). You could attempt to get a visual...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com