Windshield Wiper Fluid Spray / Jets

[Kwj]

Has anyone noticed their windshield wiper fluid not spraying properly? Instead of spraying the windshield like it used to before, there’s barely enough force/spray for the fluid even touch the windshield. I even had my local mechanic top off the fluid with OEM washer fluid at the appropriate ratio the last appointment.

Any recommendations on remedies I could try? I read some people trying to unclog the jet opening with a paper clip, or even putting vinegar in the washer fluid reservoir but I worry about making things worse…

2014 650i xDrive Coupe

[arucano]

make sure the nozzle is not plugged with wax/polish. Use a sewing needle and clear the nozzle and see if it improves (common cause). If not, the pump might be at fault (rear).

[Bluefoz]

Coincidentally I’ve just resolved a similar issue on my wife’s iX3, it will almost certainly be a blocked / partially blocked filter, rather than the nozzles, especially if all the nozzles are as bad as each other. What’s the chances of all of them blocking simultaneously? There are several theories as to the cause; not using BMW genuine washer fluid is one (welcome to the cynics in this regard!), lack of use, heat from the engine etc that promotes bacterial growth, whatever it is, slime develops in the washer reservoir that, over time blocks the filter.

There are ways to (temporarily in my opinion) clear it, that range from blowing compressed air backwards down the lines to dislodge the crap that’s entrained in the filter, hot water or some anti bacterial additive in an attempt to somehow dissolve the slime….but the best way is to remove the reservoir and physically clean the filter.

It’s not a particularly difficult job for someone who is used to “spannering” - the worst bit is the inaccessibility as the reservoirs on beemers are typically located within the front right hand wing / fender.

I’ve not done it on my 6 Series (yet) but if it’s the same as others I have done, it involves, the removal of the wheel and the wheel arch liner, to access the reservoir. There’s surprisingly few fixings that fix the reservoir in place, it can then be tilted out from inside the wheel arch, disconnecting the wiring plugs etc as you go. One real nuisance is that inevitably you’ll have a full reservoir due to trying to fix the problem(!) and it makes the reservoir 10lb heavier!

The pump simply pushes into a rubber circular socket (which is the filter), once the pump is removed, the filter can be prised out. Either simply clean the filter with your wife’s toothbrush(!) or replace it - replacement isn’t really necessary unless the mesh screen is broken. Give the reservoir a good flush.

Reinstall and then wonder why you can hear the pump spinning and still not fluid is ejected - it takes a while for the pump to prime / fill the pipes and start working, it will be patient.

It’s a satisfying job, but one that takes an hour or two.

The most annoying part is the lack of access, to the point where maintenance is clearly low down on the list when designing the reservoir and its position.

[Qsilver7]

FYI…the windshield washer reservoir is indeed located between the front right fender as mentioned in the post above…see #1 in the pic below: