Low Washer Fluid Indicator Malfunction
Low Washer Fluid Indicator Malfunction
Diagnostic Instructions
* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle (Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle) prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis (Strategy Based Diagnosis) for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions (Diagnostic Procedure Instructions) provides an overview of each diagnostic category.
Diagnostic Fault Information
Circuit/System Description
The Check Washer Fluid message is controlled by the instrument panel cluster using an input from the washer fluid level switch. The washer fluid level signal circuit is supplied ignition voltage through a resistor then monitored within the instrument cluster. The washer fluid level switch is normally open so the instrument cluster detects ignition voltage on the washer fluid level signal circuit whenever the washer fluid level is not low. When the washer fluid reaches the point where the driver should be informed that the washer fluid is low, the washer fluid level switch closes. When the washer fluid level switch is closed the washer fluid level signal circuit voltage is pulled low, and the instrument panel displays the Check Washer Fluid message on the driver information center. In order to prevent the Check Washer Fluid message from being displayed while sloshing is occurring in the washer fluid container, the instrument cluster is programed with a 1 minute delay before changing states of the Check Washer Fluid message during an ignition cycle.
Reference Information
Schematic Reference
Wiper/Washer Schematics (Electrical Diagrams)
Connector End View Reference
Component Connector End Views (Connector Views)
Description and Operation
Wiper/Washer System Description and Operation (Wiper and Washers) (Wiper/Washer System Description and Operation (Wiper and Washers))
Electrical Information Reference
* Circuit Testing (Circuit Testing)
* Connector Repairs (Connector Repairs)
* Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections)
* Wiring Repairs (Wiring Repairs)
Scan Tool Reference
Control Module References (Programming and Relearning) for Scan Tool Information
Circuit/System Verification
1. Verify the windshield washer fluid level is above the minimum level.
• If not above the minimum level, fill the reservoir and inspect for leaks.
2. Verify the scan tool IPC Washer Fluid Level parameter is OK.
Circuit/System Testing
1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the washer fluid level switch.
2. Test for less than 1 ohm of resistance between the ground circuit terminal A and ground.
• If greater than the specified range, test the ground circuit for an open/high resistance.
3. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool Washer Fluid Level parameter is OK.
• If not the specified value, test the signal circuit terminal B for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the IPC.
4. Install a 3A fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal B and ground. Verify the scan tool Washer Fluid Level parameter is Low.
• If not the specified value, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the IPC.
5. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the washer fluid level switch.
Component Test
1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the washer fluid level sensor.
2. Washer fluid level switch open, test for infinite resistance between the signal terminal B and the ground terminal A.
• If not the specified value, replace the washer fluid level sensor.
3. Washer fluid level switch closed, test for less than 2 ohms of resistance between the signal terminal B and the ground terminal A.
• If not within the specified range, replace the washer fluid level sensor.
Repair Instructions
Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification (Verification Tests) after completing the diagnostic procedure.
* Windshield Washer Solvent Container Replacement (With CE4) (Windshield Washer Solvent Container Replacement (With CE4))Windshield Washer Solvent Container Replacement (Without CE4) (Windshield Washer Solvent Container Replacement (Without CE4))
* Windshield Washer Solvent Level Indicator Replacement (Service and Repair)
* Control Module References (Programming and Relearning) for IPC replacement, setup, and programming