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davidherrmann1

VW Transporter Washer System Failure & DIY Help Guide

Need advice on washer system malfunction. Own a 2021 VW Transporter gasoline (16497km). Windshield washer stopped working completely. Suspecting connection to headlight cleaning system. Have trust issues with mechanics due to past experience. Has anyone dealt with similar problems? Looking for recommended fixes and rough cost estimates before visiting a repair shop.

4 comment(s)

lisa_flamme1

Recently fixed a similar fault on my 2018 VW Tiguan when the washer system stopped functioning. The headlight cleaning system shares the same pump and connections with the windshield washers. Main problems typically involve: Loose or corroded cable connections at the pump, Faulty relay behind the washer fluid tank, Damaged hose connections, Blocked fluid lines The fault turned out to be significant since the entire pump assembly needed replacement. Both Xenon headlight washers and windscreen systems were affected. The repair involved: 1. Testing electrical connections 2. Replacing the main pump unit 3. Clearing blocked lines 4. Checking LED warning system functionality 5. Full system pressure test For proper diagnosis, mechanics need specialized diagnostic tools to test the pump relay and electrical circuits. A complete system check is necessary since washer malfunctions can indicate more extensive issues with the electrical system. This type of repair requires removing several components to access the pump assembly. Would recommend having it checked professionally since improper repairs can lead to electrical system complications.

davidherrmann1 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. Your situation sounds exactly like what happened with my Transporter. The washer system suddenly died and I had similar concerns about both the headlight cleaning and windshield functions. When the repair shop checked, they found the hose connections were damaged and the pump needed replacement. Would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was in your case? Also curious if your system has worked flawlessly since the fix or if you noticed any other issues with the Xenon washer setup afterward?

lisa_flamme1

Had the repair done last week and can confirm everything works perfectly now. Much simpler fix than my previous issue, turned out to be just a loose cable connection to the pump and a faulty relay. Total cost was 165€, which was a relief compared to the full pump replacement I needed before. The washer system works flawlessly now, both the windshield and headlight cleaning functions are back to normal. No clog issues or malfunction warnings since the repair. The mechanics found the fault quickly with their diagnostic equipment, and the headlight cleaning system test showed everything was properly connected. Much better outcome than expected, considering I initially feared another complete pump replacement. If your hose connections are damaged though, that could push the cost higher than what I paid for the electrical fix.

davidherrmann1 (Author)

I want to share my repair experience after following your advice. Took the van to a certified shop that specializes in VW systems. The diagnosis revealed both a leak in the main hose and a failing pump, exactly what you mentioned could happen. The repair included: New washer fluid pump installation, Replacement of damaged hose sections, Full system pressure testing, Cleaning of all spray nozzles Total cost came to 380€. More than hoped but less than feared. The headlight cleaning system and windshield washers now work perfectly. No warning lights or system errors since the fix. Really glad I checked here first. Knowing the common issues helped me understand what the mechanic was explaining. Will definitely keep an eye on the hose connections going forward to catch any early signs of wear.

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