Audi A6 Washer Fluid System Dies Despite Full Tank

As someone with some mechanical experience, I had a similar issue with my 2010 Audi A4 2.0T. The windshield washer system showed identical symptoms, motor sound but no fluid spray despite a full reservoir. After a basic inspection, my workshop found debris blocking the washer fluid lines. They had to remove and clean the windshield washer reservoir, flush the lines, and verify the washer motor was functioning correctly. The entire service cost 25 Euro and took about an hour. The most common causes for this issue are: Clogged washer fluid lines, Faulty washer motor, Disconnected or split hoses, Blocked spray nozzles, Frozen washer fluid in cold weather To help diagnose your specific case, could you provide: Have you recently refilled the windshield washer fluid? Are both front and rear washers affected? Do you hear the pump running on both front and rear? Have you checked if the spray nozzles are physically blocked? This is a relatively common issue on these models, usually caused by debris entering the system or incorrect washer fluid causing residue buildup.

Thanks for the detailed information. Just had my last service at 16498 KM and discovered the washer fluid lines were completely blocked with mineral deposits. Our local mechanic found calcium buildup throughout the system, likely from using tap water instead of proper washer fluid at some point. The washer motor was working fine, but the blockage prevented proper flow. A complete system flush and cleaning of the spray nozzles resolved the issue. Total repair cost was 85 Euro including new washer fluid. For others facing this issue, using the correct windshield cleaning solution is crucial to prevent mineral buildup. The dashboard light will keep showing low fluid until the system properly circulates again, even with a full reservoir. Worth checking the washer fluid level sensor while doing this repair, as they can sometimes fail and trigger false warnings.

Great to hear you got it resolved. I had almost the exact same experience with my A4. Using tap water is a common mistake that leads to these mineral deposit issues in the washer fluid system. After my repair, I made sure to only use proper winter-grade washer fluid to prevent future blockages in the spray jets and lines. A good tip is to run the wiper system regularly, even in dry weather, to keep the fluid circulating and prevent deposits from settling. The warning light issue you mentioned matches what I experienced, it took a few cycles of the windshield washer system after the repair before the sensor started reading correctly again. For preventive maintenance, I now flush my washer system once a year to avoid any buildup. At 85 Euro, your repair cost was reasonable considering the amount of work needed to clean the entire system. Much better than having to replace components due to severe calcium deposits. Your mechanic was right to check the level sensor too, these can get corroded from improper fluids and trigger those false low fluid warnings we both experienced.

Thanks for the input. Yes, the calcium buildup from tap water was definitely the culprit. After the complete system cleaning, the windshield washer works perfectly again. Every spray jet is delivering fluid properly now. Just summarizing the key learnings for others: Never use tap water in your washer fluid system, Consider regular system flushes to prevent blockages, A faulty washer fluid level sensor can trigger false warnings, The dashboard light may persist until the system is fully primed, Total repair cost was 85 Euro but would have been more if the washer motor needed replacement Best investment was switching to quality windshield cleaning fluid. Running the washers weekly helps keep everything flowing smoothly. The spray jets require regular maintenance to prevent this type of blockage from happening again. Going to stick with proper washer fluid from now on. Much cheaper than dealing with another complete system flush. Really glad it was just mineral deposits and not a more serious issue with the washer motor or electrical system.