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SvenZim

Headlight Cleaning System Failure in 2021 VW Nivus: Suspected Connection to Rear Window Wiper Fluid Pump Signal Error

Headlight cleaning system without function

Hey fellow gearheads, go easy on me, I’m having a bit of a pickle with my 2021 VW Nivus. She’s done a fair share of cruising with about 13k km on the odometer. My main gripe is the headlight cleaning system. It’s completely gone kaput. The weird part? I think it might be due to a rear window wiper fluid pump signal error. I know, sounds nuts right? Had a run-in with a dodgy mechanic last time and just want to avoid that headache. Has anyone dealt with something similar? Or maybe shed light on a trusted mechanic who knows their way around these issues? Peace!

6 comment(s)


DoriKoen

Hey! Totally feel your pain. I had a similar issue with my 2018 VW Tiguan. One fine day, my headlight cleaning system was in the blink and wouldn't work no matter what I tried. Just like with your Nivus, my troubles seemed to be linked to a rear window wiper fluid pump signal error. Turned out, the pump cable connection was at fault. Plus, a relay turned out to be defective as well. Had a bit of a rough time diagnosing the issue initially, but finally figured out what precisely needed fixing. But let me tell you, it wasn't a breezy fix as it might sound. Took a fair bit of elbow grease. Sure, wasn't a complete disaster but definitely wasn't a maintenance day picnic either. Reckon these are some of those technical issues that just frustrate the hell outta you. You might want to start checking the pump cable and relay. As for finding a good mechanic, I'm sure other guys here might have some better local suggestions. Good luck!

SvenZim (Author)

Hey there! Your plight sounds super familiar. I had a similar quirk with my Tiguan a while back. Just curious, you remember how much it cost to fix those defects? Also, did anything else need to be corrected once you got into the thick of it?

DoriKoen

Hey, what's up! Yep, sure thing, I do remember. It bit my wallet a little, not gonna lie. To fix the pump cable connection and rectify the defective relay, it cost me about 165.00 €, but hey, since then, no more annoying rear window wiper fluid pump signal error! That's the only tinkering that needed doing once I properly dug into it, nothing more. At first, I thought it might throw me down a rabbit hole of endless fixes - but thankfully it was just this issue once the mechanic had a look. Everything's been smooth sailing since then, definitely worth the few extra bucks for peace of mind knowing she's running like a charm again!

SvenZim (Author)

Hey guys! Big thanks for sharing your experience. You've potentially saved me a lot of hassle and heartache. A pump cable connection and relay huh? Makes sense. I think I had a sneaking suspicion there was something off with the pump. It'll likely cost a pretty penny, but from your run-ins, it definitely seems worth it just to get my Nivus back in ace condition. Time to start hunting for a decent mechanic who won't fleece me this time, fingers crossed! Thanks again, rockstars! Peace!

TS2000

I have a similar problem, nothing comes out of the front and rear headlights, but the headlight washer still seems to be working. What could be the fault?

(Translated from German)

Best Answer

CarlyMechanic

@TS2000

I have a similar problem, nothing comes out of the front and rear headlights, but the headlight washer still seems to be working. What could be the fault?

It sounds like you might be dealing with a clogged washer nozzle or a faulty washer pump. Start by checking the washer nozzles for any blockages. If they're clear, the issue might be with the washer pump. It's also possible that there's a leak or blockage in the washer fluid lines. I recommend starting with these checks. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, it might be best to have a mechanic look at it. Please let us know how it goes or if you have any other questions.

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