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Mercedes-Benz E-Class and E-Class AMG: Why is My Windshield Wiper Fluid Not Spraying?

A malfunctioning windshield wiper fluid sprayer in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class could malfunction for several different reasons, ranging from some dirt clogging the spray nozzle to a disconnected hose underneath the hood. Read this article to learn more.

By Jeffrey Bausch - May 4, 2015

This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and E-Class AMG (2002-2009).

If your windshield washing fluid system is not functioning properly, no need to fret—it could be something as simple as the system being low on fluid, a clogged nozzle, or a loose hose. You can save yourself a trip to the mechanic (and some money as well) by doing some troubleshooting at home following these simple steps.

Materials Needed

  • Windshield washer fluid
  • Replacement hose
  • Compressed air and air nozzle
  • Funnel
  • Needle or pin

Step 1 – Check the levels of the windshield washer fluid

It might be low.

This is a fairly easy thing to forget to check on; that is, until you need to clean your windshield. Open up the hood of your engine and locate the windshield washer fluid reservoir. If it’s low, simply top it off.

Figure 1. Top off with fluid if low.

Step 2 – Check the condition of your windshield washer fluid reservoir

It might be leaking.

As long as you have the hood up, check the condition of the washer fluid reservoir. This component is made of plastic, which makes it susceptible to the typical wear-and-tear you’d expect to see when the material is exposed to outside conditions. Disconnect the hoses leading to the reservoir and check the body for cracks and leak points. Also, look for dirt in the reservoir and clean—you don’t want anything getting into the hoses and clogging the system.

Also, as long as everything is disconnected, take this time to check the rubber hoses for cracks, leaks, or breaks. Replace broken hoses as necessary.

Figure 2. Fluid reservoir.

Step 3 – Clean the windshield washer fluid nozzles

They might be clogged.

Using a pin or needle, clean out the hood-based fluid nozzles of dirt and sediment build-up. Given the extreme exposure to outside conditions, this particular component is susceptible to getting clogged and needs a cleaning every now and then.

Figure 3. Clean out the fluid nozzles.

Step 4 –Check the stability of the windshield washer fluid nozzles

They might be misfiring.

These nozzles can get knocked loose, which would cause the exterior encasement to block the nozzle’s ability to release the fluid. Adjust and re-stabilize as necessary.

Figure 4. Checking fluid nozzle stability.

Step 5 – Check the washer fluid pump

It might be dead.

Have someone turn the car on and activate the windshield washer fluid. As they do this, listen for a pump noise around the windshield washer fluid reservoir. If you do not hear one, then in all likelihood your pump is shot. It’s an easy fix that takes less than 20 minutes, and the parts can be found at your typical auto parts store.

Figure 5. Washer fluid pump.

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