Audi Washer System Total Failure: Pump vs Headlight Issue

Having seen something very similar on my 2013 Audi A4, I can share my experience as someone with moderate car repair knowledge. The system malfunction ended up being a faulty cable connection between the washer pump and relay. Initially, I also thought it was a clog since both the windshield and headlight washer systems stopped working simultaneously. After checking the basics like washer fluid level and fuses, I took it to a workshop. They diagnosed that the pump wasnt receiving proper power due to corroded wiring. The Xenon headlight washer system shares the same pump as the windshield washers in these models, which explains why both systems failed. The repair involved replacing the wiring harness and connections to the pump, costing 165 Euro in total. Since then, both systems have worked flawlessly. To help diagnose your case more precisely, could you share: Can you hear the pump trying to work when pressing the stalk? Have you noticed any warning lights besides the washer system? Did both systems stop working at the same time or gradually? Has the car been exposed to particularly wet conditions lately? This information would help determine if youre dealing with the same electrical issue or possibly something different.

Thanks for previous replies. My A5 just had its latest service at 87140 KM. After inspecting more closely, I can now hear a faint buzzing when activating the washer, which makes me think the pump is trying to work. No additional warning lights besides the headlight washer fault message. Both systems stopped working suddenly on the same day. I noticed a small puddle under the car this morning, so I followed the hose connections and found one that seems loose near the pump. The malfunction might be from a disconnected hose rather than an electrical issue. Will try reattaching it properly and report back after testing.

Thanks for the update. That loose hose connection definitely matches what you're describing, especially with the puddle underneath. While my A4 had the electrical issue, Ive since learned these washer system malfunctions are often caused by simple hose problems. The buzzing sound from the pump is actually good news. It confirms the electrical system and pump motor are likely working fine, unlike my previous wiring issue. The headlight cleaning system fault message appears because its on the same pressure circuit. A quick tip when reattaching the hose: make sure to push it fully onto the pump connector until you feel it click. Sometimes the hose can look connected but not be fully seated. Also check if the hose has any cracks or damage where it connects, the plastic can become brittle over time. If you still have issues after reconnecting, Id recommend checking all the other hose connections while youre at it. Theres usually one main hose that splits into separate lines for the windshield and headlight cleaning systems. A loose connection anywhere along this path can cause pressure loss. Let us know how the repair goes after fixing the hose connection.

Good news, I managed to fix the washer system issue today! After finding that loose hose near the pump, I discovered it had completely separated from its connection point. Once I properly reattached it and secured the connection, both the windshield and headlight washer systems started working perfectly again. The puddle I noticed was definitely from the leak in that disconnected hose. The system now sprays with good pressure and the fault message for the headlight washers has disappeared from the dash. Total repair cost: 0 Euro since it just needed a proper reconnection. I also checked all other hoses in the system while I was at it and found them secure with no signs of wear. Thanks for helping me diagnose this, saved me from assuming it was a more serious electrical or pump issue. For anyone else with similar symptoms, definitely check all hose connections first before assuming the worst. The faint buzzing sound from the pump was the key clue that pointed to a leak rather than a system failure.