RS3 Washer System Failure: Pump Issues Point to Fix

I experienced a similar malfunction with my 2014 RS4, sounds exactly like your issue. I have some experience with basic car maintenance but this was beyond my DIY comfort zone. The washer system failed completely, no pump sound, no fluid dispensing, and the headlight cleaning system was also dead. After checking the basics like fuses and fluid levels, I took it to a workshop. The root cause was a faulty cable connection to the washer pump, which had corroded over time. The technician found that water had gotten into the wiring harness near the pump, causing connection issues. They had to replace some wiring and the pump relay. The repair took about 2 hours and cost 165 Euro including parts and labor. To properly diagnose your specific case, could you share: Any warning lights on the dash? Can you hear any clicking sound when activating the washer? Did the malfunction occur suddenly or gradually? Have you noticed any washer fluid leaks or hoses that look damaged? Was the system working fine before in cold weather? This info would help determine if your issue is similar to what I encountered with the wiring and pump system.

Did my last service at 27000 KM and currently at 29101 KM. Thanks for the detailed response. No warning lights showing on the dash. The fault appeared suddenly during a rainstorm last week. I checked underneath and noticed a small leak near the washer fluid reservoir, might be related. No clicking sounds at all when pressing the washer stalk. The system worked fine in cold weather before. I will have it checked at a workshop since it seems beyond basic troubleshooting. The wiring issue you mentioned makes sense given how both systems failed simultaneously. Will get the xenon headlight cleaning system checked too since it shares the same pump. Better to fix any potential leak before it causes more damage to the electrical system.

Thanks for the additional details about your RS3. Based on what you described, especially the leak near the reservoir and the sudden failure during rain, your situation sounds different from my RS4 case. The simultaneous system malfunction and leak points strongly toward a physical problem with the reservoir or pump assembly rather than just an electrical issue like I had. When hoses fail near the reservoir, water ingress during rain can sometimes trigger these symptoms. Quick tip from my experience, have them check the main washer fluid hose connections to both the windshield and headlight system. On these models, the hose routing near the LED headlight cleaning system can sometimes get damaged by heat from nearby components. Given the low mileage, this sounds like it could be covered under warranty if you still have it. The total repair cost for a pump and hose replacement would likely be around 250 Euro if not covered. Would be helpful to know if youve noticed any washer fluid puddles in your usual parking spot? This could confirm if the leak is constant or only happens during system activation attempts.

The leak appears to be constant, I checked my regular parking spot and found small puddles of washer fluid each morning this week. Your suggestion about heat damage near the LED headlight cleaning system is interesting since that area did feel unusually warm during my initial inspection. I called the dealership and they can check it next week. Unfortunately, my warranty expired 3 months ago at 25000 KM. The 250 Euro estimate helps set expectations for the repair costs. I will have them thoroughly inspect the hose routing and connections since a clog or damaged line seems the most likely cause given the constant leak and complete system failure. If the pump assembly needs replacement, I will ask them to check all nearby wiring for water damage too. Rather fix everything properly now than risk further electrical issues down the road. Will update once I get the final diagnosis.