Audi S5 Washer & Headlight Cleaning System Failure Fix

Having had similar issues with my 2015 Audi S4, I can share some relevant experience as a car enthusiast with some technical knowledge. The headlight cleaning system and windshield washer sharing issues definitely points to a common problem. In my case, the cable connection to the washer pump was damaged, causing both systems to fail since they share the same pump setup. The xenon headlight cleaning system typically operates from the same fluid reservoir and pump system. Before assuming pump failure, I checked for a clog in the hose system by disconnecting and cleaning the main hoses, but this wasnt the issue. The workshop found corroded wiring at the pump connector, which caused intermittent operation before complete failure. The repair involved replacing the wiring harness section and connector, totaling 165 Euro including diagnostic time. To provide more specific guidance, could you share: Whether you hear the pump motor attempting to run when activated, If the washer fluid level warning works correctly, Whether the issue started gradually or suddenly, If you notice any unusual sounds from the pump area These details would help determine if youre facing the same electrical connection issue or potentially a different problem.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My issue came up suddenly last week at 80759 KM. After some investigation, I hear no pump noise at all when activating either system. I noticed the washer fluid level sensor still works correctly, showing full tank warnings normally. It seems the connection between xenon headlight cleaning and windshield washer malfunction suggests a common pump issue. Since there is no sound at all and both systems fail simultaneously, Im leaning toward an electrical fault rather than a hose leak or blockage.

Based on those additional symptoms, this definitely mirrors my experience with the same fault on my S4. The complete silence from the pump combined with both systems failing points strongly toward an electrical connection malfunction rather than a mechanical pump failure or system leak. In my case, the corrosion at the pump connector caused a total drop in power to the pump unit, resulting in the same silent response you describe. The properly functioning level sensor further supports this diagnosis, as a damaged pump would not affect the separate sensor circuit. A quick diagnostic step you could try: locate the washer pump connector under the wheel well liner and check for any visible corrosion or damage. The wiring might show signs of wear, particularly if exposed to road spray and winter salt. The repair cost in my situation was reasonable compared to replacing the entire pump assembly. The system started working flawlessly after the wiring repair, and no hose-related issues emerged later. If your symptoms match mine this closely, you might want to have a workshop check the electrical connections first before considering more extensive repairs.

The symptoms you describe match my situation perfectly. The absence of any pump noise and simultaneous malfunction of both the windshield washer and headlight cleaning system really helps narrow it down. Taking your experience into account and given the full tank sensor works fine, Im now confident its an electrical issue rather than a mechanical pump failure. Ill check the pump connector for corrosion as suggested. A wiring repair at around 165 Euro sounds much more appealing than replacing the entire pump assembly. This has been really helpful in understanding what to expect at the workshop. I appreciate the detailed explanation about the shared pump system and how both cleaning systems being affected points to an electrical fault rather than a system leak or blockage. Will schedule a repair soon focusing on checking the wiring connection first.