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linablaze98

VW Taos Wiper System Failure & Warning Light Mystery

My 2021 VW Taos has stopped working with the wiper system completely. The dashboard light shows a warning for low washer fluid, though I recently topped it up. I checked the error memory using an OBD scanner which confirms there is a stored error. Before taking it to a repair shop, has anyone encountered similar issues with their windshield washer system? What was the actual problem and repair solution in your case? Looking for some guidance on what to expect and potential fixes that worked for others.

4 comment(s)

annamueller1

Having experienced a similar issue with my 2019 VW Tiguan, I can share some insights as someone with moderate car repair experience. The windshield washer system stopped working completely despite having plenty of washer fluid. After checking the basics, I took it to my regular workshop. They found that debris had clogged the spray jets, and the level sensor was malfunctioning, triggering false dashboard light warnings. The fix was straightforward and cost 25€ for cleaning the spray jets and replacing the faulty washer fluid level sensor. The whole repair took about an hour. Since then, the system has worked flawlessly. Before suggesting specific solutions for your Taos, could you share: Does the pump make any sound when activated? Are the spray jets visibly blocked or damaged? Did you use the correct type of washer fluid? When did you first notice the dashboard light warning? Its worth checking if debris has accumulated in your windshield cleaning system. Sometimes leaves or dirt can block the spray jets, causing similar symptoms. Regular maintenance using quality washer fluid helps prevent these issues.

linablaze98 (Author)

Thanks for the suggestions. My last service was just 2 months ago at 45000km, and the issue started last week. The pump makes no sound when activated, and I checked the fluid level personally, its completely full with proper washer fluid. The spray jets appear clean with no visible blockage. The warning light started flashing immediately after I filled up the reservoir. I have another appointment with the dealer but wanted to check if this sounds like a pump failure or sensor issue based on these symptoms.

annamueller1

Based on those symptoms, it sounds very similar to what happened with my Tiguan. Since your pump isnt making any sound when activated, this points more toward an electrical issue or washer motor failure rather than a blockage. In my case, after the first diagnosis was wrong about the spray jets, they found the washer motor had failed. The lack of sound from the pump is a key indicator here. When the washer fluid level sensor fails, it can trigger the dashboard light warning even with a full reservoir, which matches your experience of the warning appearing right after filling up. The repair for my washer motor replacement was around 180€ including parts and labor. Its a relatively simple fix that took about 90 minutes. Since the replacement, both the warning light issue and the system functionality have been perfect. Quick tip: If you want to verify the electrical connection before your dealer appointment, check the fuse for the washer motor, sometimes its as simple as a blown fuse causing these symptoms.

linablaze98 (Author)

Yes, this definitely helps narrow down the potential issues. Since theres no sound from the pump and the warning light started right after filling the reservoir, Im leaning toward either the washer motor or sensor being the culprit. Looking at the symptoms more closely now: No pump sound = possible motor failure or electrical issue, Warning light after filling = likely faulty level sensor, Clean spray jets but no function = rules out blockage, Recent service = probably not maintenance related This matches what you experienced with your Tiguan. Ill check the fuse as suggested before my dealer appointment next week. A 180€ repair cost for the motor replacement would be much better than what I initially feared. Thanks for sharing your experience, it gives me a good baseline for what to expect at the dealer.

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