How to Replace a Busted Windshield Wiper Fluid Container

Windshield wiper fluid containers are typically made of ABS plastic, but can crack with exposure to extreme cold weather or an automobile collision (or other accident). Replacement reservoir containers can be found at most auto parts stores, but many are sized specifically to the make and model of the vehicle.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Pliers
• Socket wrench
• Socket set

1. Open the hood and remove the hose clamp on the hose running to the windshield wiper fluid container, using a pair of pliers: squeeze the retaining tabs on the hose clamp together and slide the hose clamp back off the end of the hose.

2. Pull the hose off the fluid container with your hands. With the hose clamp backed off the end of the hose, you should be able to pull the hose off the fluid container straight off; if necessary, gently twist the hose back and forth while pulling it off the container.

3. Remove the bolts that hold the wiper fluid container in place, if there are any, using a socket wrench and the appropriate sized socket. (The exact size of the required socket depends upon the make and model of the vehicle.) Some wiper fluid containers have no retaining bolts. Instead, the container is held in place by a tongue-and-groove-connection to the fender; in this case, lift up on the container and slide it off the fender to remove it.

4. Slide the new container in place, secure it with the mounting bolts, if any, reconnect the hose and secure the hose clamp over the end of the hose. The installation of the hose is the reverse of removal. Push the hose over the small nipple on the end of the fluid container (the exact reverse of Step 2). Pinch the retaining tabs on the hose clamp together and slide the clamp over the end of the hose so that the clamp holds the hose to the fluid container nipple.

References

• "Auto Repair For Dummies"; Deanna Sclar; 1999