vivienmystic73
DeVille Washer System: No Spray Despite Working Pump
4 comment(s)
vivienmystic73 (Author)
Thanks for sharing those details. My car has 27308 KM and had its last service 3 months ago. When activated, the pump makes a normal humming sound without any grinding or unusual noise. There are no visible leaks under the vehicle, but I noticed the washer system pressure gradually decreased over the past month before failing completely. The headlight cleaning system was working about 2 weeks ago. This makes me think the fault might be related to a blockage or leak where the two systems connect, rather than an electrical issue since the pump still runs. Would checking the connector points between the main washer system and headlight cleaning components be a good first step before replacing any parts?
felixwinkler5
Thanks for providing those extra details. Based on what you describe, your symptoms do differ from my Seville case, your pump sounds healthy unlike my electrical fault situation. The gradual pressure loss followed by complete failure, combined with a recently working headlight cleaning system, strongly suggests a blockage or damaged hose where the systems intersect. These connection points are common failure spots in our models. I would focus troubleshooting on: 1. The T-junction where the main washer line splits to feed both systems 2. The hose sections immediately before and after this junction 3. The check valves that prevent backflow between systems When my system acted up again last summer, a simple cleaning of the T-junction and replacing a cracked hose section fixed it. The repair was much cheaper at 45€ versus my previous electrical issue. Before buying parts, try disconnecting the headlight cleaning system line at the junction. If the windshield washers start working, you have confirmed the malfunction is in the headlight system branch. This test saved me from unnecessarily replacing the main system components.
vivienmystic73 (Author)
Thanks for that detailed guidance. The T-junction inspection makes a lot of sense given my symptoms. I checked the junction point you mentioned and found a significant clog where the LED headlight washer line connects to the main system. After clearing the blockage and checking all nearby hoses, the system is now working again with full pressure to both the windshield and headlight washers. The fault was exactly where you suggested, debris had built up at the connection point and created a complete system blockage. Total cost was just 15€ for some new hose clamps since I did the work myself. This saved me from unnecessarily replacing the pump or other components. Really appreciate you helping identify the most likely cause based on the gradual pressure loss symptom. Seems like regular inspection of these junction points might prevent future system failures.
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felixwinkler5
I had a similar issue with my 1998 Seville last winter, both models share comparable washer system layouts. Have some experience working on these systems. The fault turned out to be a cable connection issue with the washer pump relay. While the pump was running, the poor connection meant it wasn't getting full power to build proper pressure. The system also had a clog in one of the lines near where it connected to the headlight washers. Took it to a workshop after trying basic troubleshooting. They found the faulty wiring and replaced the affected cables plus cleaned out the blocked line. Total repair came to 165€ including parts and labor. System has worked flawlessly since then. Before suggesting specific fixes, could you share: Any unusual noises from the pump when activated? Do you see any fluid leaks under the car after using the system? Have you noticed reduced pressure before it failed completely? When was the last time the headlight washer system was used? This info would help narrow down if you are dealing with a similar electrical fault or possibly a different issue in the system.