VW Virtus Washer System Malfunction: Common Fix Explained

I had a similar issue with my 2021 VW Polo last month. As someone with some basic car maintenance experience, I first tried the obvious solution of adding washer fluid, but the dashboard light stayed on. Took it to a workshop where they found the windshield washer fluid sensor was faulty, triggering false readings. Even with a full reservoir, the system kept showing low fluid warnings. The repair was straightforward, they cleaned the sensor connections and recalibrated the system. Total cost was 25€ for diagnostics and cleaning. Before jumping to conclusions about your Virtus though, could you share: Does the pump make any sound when you try to spray? Have you checked if the fluid actually comes out of any of the nozzles? What error code is showing in your system? Did you use the correct type of washer fluid? These details would help determine if youre dealing with a sensor issue like mine or possibly a pump problem. Sometimes debris in the fluid reservoir can also cause similar symptoms.

Thanks for the detailed response. My mileage is now at 32978km since last service. When activating the spray, I hear no sound from the washer motor at all. None of the spray jets are working, completely dry. The error code P0480 appears in the system. I did use the correct windshield washer fluid, specifically the one recommended in the manual. I checked the fuses as suggested by the manual but they all seem fine. I am wondering if this could be related to the washer pump itself since there is no sound at all when trying to activate the system.

Thanks for those additional details. Yes, my Polo had similar symptoms before I got it fixed, and based on what youre describing, especially the complete silence from the washer motor, this points more toward a pump failure rather than the sensor issue I initially thought. The P0480 code typically relates to cooling fan control issues, but in some VW models its also associated with the windshield washer pump circuit. Since your fluid level is correct and youre getting no response from the pump, this strengthens the pump failure theory. In my case, after the sensor fix didnt fully resolve the issue, the workshop found that the washer motor had failed. The repair involved replacing the complete pump assembly, which cost around 150€ including labor. The symptoms were identical, no sound, no spray, error code. Given your mileage and the symptoms, Id strongly recommend having the washer pump checked. Its worth noting that debris in the fluid can sometimes cause premature pump failure, but since youve been using the correct washer fluid, this might just be a case of normal wear and tear. Before heading to the workshop, you could try disconnecting and reconnecting the pump electrical connector to rule out a loose connection, but be prepared that the pump might need replacement.

Since youre asking about my car issues, thought I should update you. I took your advice and had the car checked at a workshop yesterday. You were spot on about the windshield washer pump. They found the motor had completely failed, which explained why there was no sound when trying to activate the system. The fluid level warning light was actually a secondary issue caused by the pump failure interfering with the sensor readings. They replaced the entire washer pump assembly and cleared the error code. Total repair cost was 165€, a bit more than your case but still reasonable. The windshield cleaning system works perfectly now, strong spray from all nozzles. They also mentioned finding some minor debris in the old pump, so they flushed the entire system before installing the new unit. Really appreciate your help in diagnosing this. Saved me some time by pointing me in the right direction with the pump issue instead of focusing on the sensor problem first.