Windshield washer fluid is handy when you want a quick cleanup of your windshield. It is advisable to have enough washer fluid in the reservoir, especially when driving in dusty or muddy environments. A light on the dashboard and a windshield with a water droplets symbol will turn on to indicate low washer fluid levels.
The light will go off once you refill the washer fluid tank. However, there are instances where the light fails to reset automatically, which can irritate some drivers. Let us look at how to reset low washer fluid light if you are dealing with such a scenario.
Answer: The Windshield Washer System
The warning light is part of the washer system, which also comprises the reservoir, pump, sensor, and hoses. When you activate this system, the pump draws water from the reservoir and sends it to the windshield via nozzles at various points.
The washer fluid sensor is a magnetic switch inside the reservoir that detects fluid levels. If the washer fluid levels drop past a specific capacity, the sensor sends a signal to a module that turns on the dash light to notify you about the issue.
Answer: How To Reset Low Washer Fluid Warning Light
The following are the steps to resetting the warning light indicating low washer fluid levels.
Step 1: Check Fluid Levels
Start by checking the washer fluid reservoir and ensure it is at operational capacity. If necessary, add more fluid to activate the sensor, and the light should go off.
When you turn on the washing unit, you can detect low fluid levels by low output. If it remains on after refilling, you should abide by the next steps.
Step 2: Use the Reset Menu
Most new vehicle models have a reset menu that allows you to adjust the dash lights. You reset the maintenance lights by turning on the engine and long pressing the reset knob or button for some seconds. The lights will start to blink and then go off.
Step 3: Manually Resetting the Light
You can manually reset the light in various ways depending on the vehicle model. The go-to method of how to reset low washer fluid light manually is by cycling the ignition. It involves turning the ignition on and off several times until the light goes off.
Alternatively, you may use the pedal technique, where you turn on the ignition and repeatedly foot the gas pedal. Do this five times in three seconds as you watch the reaction on the dash.
The other way to manually reset the warning light is by disconnecting the battery. Let it rest briefly before reconnecting, then check the dash.
Step 4: Use a Diagnostic Tool
Using a diagnostic scanning tool is an excellent way of dealing with a warning light that won’t go off. Connect the diagnostics tool to your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics to view the washer fluid system. Follow the provided prompts on the scanner’s screen to reset the system.
Step 5: Reset the Car Computer
The vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) is a computer system that controls the vehicle’s electrical components, including the dashboard lights. You can reset the ECU to solve the issue. An easy way is using a diagnostic scanner, like in the previous approach. Nevertheless, you can reset it without the tool.
The reset requires you to cut off power to the car computer, which you manage by disconnecting the battery. You should also drain all current going to the computer.
Optionally, you can remove the ECU fuse from the fuse box. You may perform this process alone or accompany it by disconnecting the battery.
Connect the fuse after a maximum of 15 minutes, but you can leave the battery for up to 45 minutes before reconnection. Turn the vehicle on and observe your warning lights’ behavior, which should be good by now.
Answer: 4 Reasons Why Low Fluid Washer Light Is On
The primary reason why your low washer fluid light is on is because you have insufficient washer fluid. However, this is not the case sometimes, as your fluid reservoir may be full.
Below are the reasons behind this strange occurrence, which can guide you on how to reset low washer fluid light.
A Faulty Sensor
The sensor directly links to the light, and its malfunction reflects in the light’s behavior. A faulty sensor may fail to detect washer fluid levels in the reservoir and transmit the wrong information to the dashboard.
You should check the sensor’s state if a reset doesn’t work. A diagnostic tool is an effective way of pointing out a bad sensor. Replacement is the best solution for a faulty sensor.
A Leaking Reservoir
The washer fluid warning light remaining on might be accurate, hinting at a hitch in the reservoir, most probably a leak. A common sign of a leaking reservoir is the presence of washer fluid on the ground, noticeable when you park the car.
Locate the leak, which you can fix if it is small. Extensive damage calls for the replacement of the reservoir. Avoid putting washer fluid in a damaged tank, as it may result in further problems, especially if it contacts electrical components.
Electrical Malfunctions
An electrical problem can cause the washer fluid lights to act up. The battery is usually to blame in such a situation where the connections are faulty.
The warning lights may remain on or flash, indicating loose connections or corroded terminals. Sometimes, the dash lights will go completely off, even when you turn on the engine, hinting at a blown fuse.
You should inspect the battery, mainly focusing on the terminals and wiring to solve the problem. Moreover, check the fuses and replace them if necessary.
What if the lights remain on even when you turn off the ignition? A faulty ignition switch or blown ECM fuse mainly causes this strange occurrence.
Fixing the ignition switch is challenging, especially if you lack the technical know-how. Contact a professional if you suspect the ignition system to be faulty.
A Dirty Reservoir or Frozen Washer Fluid
As mentioned earlier, the sensor is magnetic, and a dirty reservoir may affect its performance. Contaminants, especially metallic shavings, may affect the magnetism of the sensor, causing it to send false signals. Frozen washer fluid may also affect the sensors’ functionality.
Cleaning the reservoir will help with this problem. The heat generated from driving will thaw the frozen fluid, restoring normalcy.
Final Remarks
The low washer fluid light nudges you to fill the washer fluid tank, which is essential for cleaning your windshield. You should know how to reset low washer fluid light if it malfunctions and remains on or repeatedly flashes.
You should consider resetting if the washer fluid system is in excellent shape. Inspect the unit regularly to address faults like leakages and a failing sensor for efficiency.