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Washer Problem

Posted: Mon Oct 04, 2004 7:14 pm
by IanD
I have a 1.7 1995 480. When I operate the washers the headlights pop up, the window washers do not work and the headlight washers work for about half a second ( just) !!!! If I operate again the headlight do not work, only if I switch them all off and start again. It's getting darker and wetter and I urgently need to solve the problem!!!!!! Any suggestions?????

Posted: Mon Oct 04, 2004 8:11 pm
by Ben Harris
The headlight washers are designed to do that. They'll only work once every 10 minutes (I think - could be slightly longer), all the time the ignition's on. Obviously the 10 minutes gets reset if you switch the ignition off and on again. I think they give two small bursts, within about 8 seconds of pulling the windscreen washer switch, and they'll only operate if the pop-ups are up.

I think you've proven that the washer stalk on the steering column works, and that the signal's getting at least as far as the CEM. I suspect it's most likely that the pump itself in the washer bottle has siezed. Your best bet would be to unplug the connectors on it (good luck if you've got air-con!), and see if there's any voltage there when you pull the washer stalk. If there is, the the pump's knackered. If not, then it's time to start checking the CEM and wiring inbetween.

Ben.

Posted: Mon Oct 04, 2004 8:13 pm
by Ben Harris
Ah... - I've just re-read your original message. Are you saying that when you pull the washer stalk, the headlights pop-up, even if they're down? If so, then they're not supposed to do that! The headlight washers are only supposed to operate if the pop-ups are already raised.

Ben.

Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2004 8:31 am
by IanD
Thanks Ben.
I did get it slightly wrong. The lights are already up and there is a very short burst ( Hardly enough to wet lights).
I will try the power test at the pump and let you know how I get on. Luckily no air con..

Re: Washer Problem

Posted: Sun Jan 02, 2005 1:52 pm
by coyote1980
IanD wrote:I have a 1.7 1995 480.
Ehm, are you sure?

Re: Washer Problem

Posted: Fri Sep 24, 2021 10:28 pm
by GCooper
It could be a 480 S couldn't it? I am aware I'm 16 years late