VW Sharan Washer System Failure, Cost Experience Needed

Had the same issue on my VW Touran 2013 diesel at 92000km. The windshield washer system failed completely despite having a full tank of wiper fluid. The problem turned out to be a faulty washer motor which had corroded from the inside. This is actually a common issue on these VW models. The spray jets were perfectly fine, but the pump simply could not push the fluid through the system. The mechanic had to replace the entire washer motor unit since these components cannot be repaired individually. It was not a complex repair, took about an hour including testing the new system. These pumps tend to fail when debris gets into the washer fluid or after extended periods of running the system dry. The repair was not particularly serious in terms of safety or vehicle operation, but it needed fixing since proper windshield cleaning is essential for safe driving. To prevent this issue, always use clean windshield washer fluid and never let the reservoir run completely empty. Would recommend getting it checked soon, as continuing to activate a failed pump can cause additional damage to the wiper system components.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I noticed the same problem on my Sharan last winter and got it fixed. Just wondering how much you ended up paying for the washer motor replacement? Also curious if you had any dashboard light issues since the repair? After my fix the warning light kept coming on for a few days until the mechanic adjusted something with the fluid level sensor.

Thanks for asking. The washer motor replacement cost me 215€ plus parts. The warning light issue you mentioned is interesting, I had that exact same problem initially. The dashboard kept showing low washer fluid warnings even with a full tank. When I went back to the mechanic, they found the windshield washer fluid sensor needed recalibration. It was a quick fix that only cost 25€ to adjust the sensor reading. Since then, both the washer system and warning lights have worked perfectly. No more false low fluid warnings. For anyone else reading this, if your washer fluid warning stays on after a repair, its usually just the sensor needing adjustment rather than an actual system problem. The spray jets and washer motor can work fine while the sensor still thinks the fluid is low.

I appreciate all the helpful replies. Just wanted to share how my repair went since others might find it useful. Took it to a local mechanic who diagnosed it right away as a failed washer motor. The whole repair including parts came to 190€ which seemed fair compared to dealer prices. They had the part in stock and finished everything in about 45 minutes. Like others mentioned, I also had that annoying dashboard light staying on after the repair. Brought it back and they recalibrated the washer fluid sensor at no extra charge. The warning light finally went off and the spray jets have been working perfectly since then. Really glad I asked here first, saved me from overpaying at the dealer and knew exactly what to expect. The windshield washer system has been working great for the past few months with no issues.