BMW X4 Washer Pump Failure: Warning Light Mystery Solved

Hey there! I have some experience with cars and had a similar issue with my 2021 BMW X3 last month. The symptoms were exactly the same, warning light and no pump action. Took it to my regular workshop and turns out it was just critically low washer fluid. They topped it up, and everything worked perfectly again. The whole thing cost me 25 Euro, including the fluid. The warning system in these newer BMWs is pretty sensitive. My mechanic mentioned seeing this quite often with the X-series models. Could you share how long you've had this issue and if you've checked the washer fluid level yourself? Also, do you hear any sound when you try to use the washers? This info would help determine if it's the same simple fix or something else.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I've got 181319 KM on my X4, and had my last service about 3 months ago. Actually, I haven't checked the fluid level myself yet, rookie mistake, I know! When I try to use the washers, there's absolutely no sound at all. Just complete silence and no action. After hearing about your experience, I'll definitely check the fluid level first thing tomorrow morning. Fingers crossed it's just a simple top-up like in your case. Would definitely prefer spending a few bucks on washer fluid rather than dealing with a bigger repair!

Hey again! Thanks for the additional info about your X4. Since we're talking about the same issue I had before, I think there might be something else going on here. The fact that you're not hearing any sound from the pump is different from what I experienced with my X3. Even when my fluid was low, I could still hear the pump trying to work. In my case, there was at least a faint buzzing sound when I activated the washers. Complete silence usually points to an electrical issue or a failed pump. Especially since you mentioned having service just 3 months ago, I'd be surprised if they didn't top up the fluid then, that's usually part of the standard service checklist. Still, definitely check that fluid level first, it's the easiest thing to rule out. But based on my experience with these BMWs, I'd prepare myself for possibly needing a new pump. Had a similar complete silence issue on my previous X3 (2019 model), and it turned out to be a faulty pump that needed replacement. Let us know what you find when you check the fluid level. If it's full, might be worth getting it checked by a professional. The good news is that pump replacement isn't too complicated on these models.

Thanks so much for the detailed insight! You've got me a bit worried now about the complete silence issue. You're absolutely right, they should have topped up the fluid during the service, and I remember them doing it. Just checked the fluid level right now instead of waiting until tomorrow, and surprise, it's actually full! Definitely not good news considering what you mentioned about your previous X3's pump failure. I guess I'll have to bite the bullet and take it to the workshop. At least now I can go in more informed thanks to your experience. I'll make sure to mention the no-sound symptom and possible pump failure when I book it in. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your knowledge, it's helped me understand what I might be dealing with. I'll update the thread once I get it checked out, might help someone else with the same issue down the line!