VW Fox Washer Pump Failure: Diagnosis & Fix Guide

Had a similar issue on my VW Polo 1.6 TDI from 2012. The warning light for washer fluid kept showing up despite the tank being full. After checking, turned out the washer motor had failed, which is a common issue in these models. The dashboard light persisted because the system wasnt getting proper signals from the washer motor. When testing at the garage, they found the motor wasnt responding to switch activation, though the fluid level was correct. The problem wasnt serious but needed proper attention. Initially thought it might be blocked spray jets or a faulty fluid level sensor, but diagnostic tests confirmed the washer motor failure. The repair was straightforward, just needed the washer motor replaced. No other systems were affected. Your symptoms match exactly what happened with mine, warning light on, no spray function, stored error code. Worth checking the washer motor first before exploring other potential issues. These motors typically fail due to regular wear or extended periods without use.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Polo. My Fox had exactly the same symptoms as you described. The windshield washer system completely failed and the warning light stayed on despite having enough fluid. Did the mechanic give you a detailed breakdown of the repair costs? My local shop wants 180€ for parts plus labor but that seems steep. Also curious if youve had any issues with the wiper system since the motor replacement?

The repair was much simpler than expected for my Polo. The mechanic checked the system and found the warning light was actually triggered by the wiper fluid being slightly below the sensor level, despite looking full from outside. Total cost was just 25€ for topping up and recalibrating the sensor, no motor replacement needed. The windshield cleaning system works perfectly now and the dashboard light hasnt come back on. Since you mentioned similar symptoms, maybe start with a fluid level check before replacing the washer motor. 180€ seems quite high if its just a fluid level issue like mine was. The spray jets are delivering fluid consistently now and the warning system works as intended. If your fluid level is genuinely full, then motor replacement might be necessary, but worth getting a second opinion given that price quote. Key lesson from my experience: sometimes these warning lights can be triggered by simple issues that dont require expensive repairs. Regular checks of the wiper fluid level can prevent similar problems in the future.

I finally got my Fox fixed after dealing with that annoying wiper system issue. Turned out the washer motor was indeed faulty, but I found a different mechanic who charged less than the first quote. Total repair came to 120€ including parts and labor. The windshield cleaning system works perfectly now and the warning light disappeared right after the repair. The mechanic showed me the old motor, it was completely seized up from corrosion. Apparently this is pretty common in these models when fluid sits too long without use. Really glad I asked here before going with the first quote. Saved some money and got the job done right. The new mechanic also did a quick check of all the fluid levels while they had it in, which was a nice touch. No issues at all with the wipers since the fix. For anyone else seeing similar warning lights, definitely worth shopping around for quotes. Sometimes the first estimate isnt the best deal.