Wiper washer does not work when cold out.

[rkvons]

I've got this 1998 Monte Carlo with 191K on the odometer. Last year, when it got cold out, the washer pump did not work. But when it warmed up, it worked. This last summer, I replaced it with a new one. I clean out the squirters and verified that it all worked beautifully and was ready for the cold again. Well, it worked a couple of weeks ago, but now that it has gotten cold, it does not work. And the real weird thing is that when you are trying to get the washer to work, the wipers are going, right? Well, when you engage the washer, the wipers slow down, like there is a tremendous load on the circuit, but there is no sound from the washer pump. Anyone have a clue? Thanks.

[aleekat]

They make different washer solutions rated at different temps. Guessing yours is just freezing.

[rkvons]

Originally Posted by aleekat

They make different washer solutions rated at different temps. Guessing yours is just freezing.

The washer fluid currently in the tank is pure and rated to -20F. I will take a look at it.

[aleekat]

If like most. The pump motor should just tilt and pull out. Had a buick where the fluid at the pump was like a slime and wouldn't pump. All clogged up bottom of pump and bottom of bottle.

[rkvons]

Originally Posted by aleekat

They make different washer solutions rated at different temps. Guessing yours is just freezing.

Well that was it. I was shocked. Frozen solid. I use washer solvent that is good to -20F, but evidently this was put in there by the previous owner. I pulled the reservoir out and rinsed it in hot water and put it back with good solvent. Thanks for the suggestion. I was convinced it was not frozen. Dumb me.

[aleekat]

thanks for posting back. Sometimes it's the simplest things.