rudolf_phoenix41
Audi Washer System Dead Despite Full Fluid
4 comment(s)
rudolf_phoenix41 (Author)
Last service was at 57484 KM. Yes, I can hear a faint buzzing when activating the spray function, but its definitely not the normal sound. I cleaned the spray jets thoroughly with a pin but no improvement. The wiper fluid system worked fine until last week when it suddenly stopped mid-spray. The spray jets are not heated on my model. Since some sound is coming from the washer motor but no fluid is moving, I suspect the motor might be failing. The persistent dashboard light even with full washer fluid definitely suggests a system fault rather than just a blockage. Has anyone replaced the washer motor on these models? Wondering if its a common failure point.
ludwigjones1
Thanks for those additional details. This definitely helps narrow things down, and your symptoms are quite different from my clogged jets issue on my A3. The faint buzzing sound combined with zero fluid movement strongly points to a failing washer motor. On my Audi, when the motor was working properly, it made a distinct humming sound. That weak buzz you describe matches what other owners experienced just before complete motor failure. The warning light staying on with full windshield washer fluid levels typically indicates the system is detecting a pump operation issue, not just a low fluid condition. The error stored in your car computer confirms this. The washer motor replacement on these models costs around 180 Euro for the part, plus labor. Its usually located near the fluid reservoir and takes about an hour to replace. When my A3s motor eventually failed completely last year, the symptoms were identical to what youre describing. Before you proceed with a replacement though, you might want to: 1. Check the fuse for the washer system 2. Verify the electrical connections to the motor are secure 3. Listen closely to determine if the motor is actually turning when you hear that buzz The persistent dashboard light combined with that weak buzzing sound makes me fairly confident its the motor, based on my experience with these Audi washer systems.
rudolf_phoenix41 (Author)
I appreciate all the detailed feedback. After double checking everything suggested, I'm convinced it is indeed the washer motor based on the symptoms. The faint buzzing matches exactly what you described for a failing pump, and I verified all fuses and connections are good. Going to schedule the washer motor replacement soon since the windshield cleaning system is basically unusable in its current state. The 180 Euro parts cost seems reasonable, and an hour of labor isn't too bad either. At least its a straightforward fix. Just wanted to update that the dashboard warning persists and the weak spray jet performance hasnt improved despite checking all the basics. Thanks for helping confirm my suspicion about the failing motor. Will report back once I get it replaced to let others know if this resolved both the spray issues and the persistent fluid level warning.
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ludwigjones1
I had a very similar issue with my Audi A3 2014 where the wiper system stopped working despite having sufficient windshield washer fluid. The dashboard warning persisted even after refilling. After checking the fluid level multiple times, I discovered the spray jets were completely clogged. The washer motor was working fine, but nothing could get through. A professional cleaning of the spray jets and lines at a workshop solved the problem completely. The total cost was 25 Euro for the service. However, before suggesting this might be your exact issue, it would be helpful to know: Can you hear the washer motor running when you try to spray? Have you checked if the spray jets are visibly blocked? Does your A4 have heated spray jets? When was the last time the windshield washer system worked normally? The symptoms match my experience, but these details would help determine if its a clogged system or potentially a failed washer motor or electrical issue.