How to Replace the Windshield Washer Reservoir in a Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander, also called the Toyota Kluger, is a mid-size crossover SUV. If you try to clean your windshield and find you don't have any fluid, fill the reservoir. If you still don't have any fluid, check for a leak in the reservoir. If you find one, replace it yourself to save some money over taking it to a mechanic.

Things You'll Need

• Windshield washer reservoir
• Pliers
• Seals
• Washer fluid
• Catch pan

Instructions

1. Select a new windshield washer reservoir--the part number depends on the year of your Toyota Highlander. Order it from the dealer or online or get it from a salvage yard. Having the part before you begin, saves you time later.

2. Choose a place to work on your Toyota Highlander. Put the SUV in park, turn it off, engage the emergency brake and open the hood by pulling the hood release.

3. Find the auxiliary release latch by reaching under the center of the hood and pulling it or twisting it to open the hood. Raise the hood and use the prop rod to hold it securely.

4. Inspect the windshield washer reservoir for a leak. It's located in the front left corner of the engine compartment. To check for a repairable crack, pour some fluid in it to find the leak. If the crack is small enough, you can repair it, otherwise replace the whole reservoir.

5. Remove the battery's negative cable, to avoid any electrical shocks. If your Toyota Highlander has air bags, wait 90 seconds before starting to work.

6. Locate all the leads to your reservoir and dismantle them. This includes undoing the washer hose, retaining clips and any other leads. After that, simply lift out the windshield washer reservoir.

7. Take off the washer pump using pliers and install it in the new windshield washer reservoir. Then, put the reservoir back in place and reconnect the clips, hoses and other leads. Replace the seals; don't reuse the old ones.

8. Reconnect the negative cable to your battery and fill the new reservoir with windshield washer fluid.

Tips & Warnings

• Drain the reservoir into a catch pan, if there's any fluid left in the tank before uninstalling it.

• Always keep your windshield washer reservoir filled. Running the washer pump without fluid can damage it and replacing the pump can be harder than replacing the reservoir.