Smart Fortwo Washer Nozzles Freezing Despite Heater Fix

I had a similar issue with my 2018 Smart Forfour last winter. With some experience working on basic car maintenance, I initially thought it was just frozen washer fluid, but it turned out to be more complex. The washer heater malfunction showed the same error message on startup. After dealing with frozen windshield wipers for a week, I took it to my regular workshop. They diagnosed a faulty connection in the heating element wiring, specifically a damaged plug connection to the washer heater. The repair cost 95€, which covered: Diagnostic check, Replacement of the damaged connector, Testing the system Since the fix, the winter driving experience has been much better, no more frozen nozzles or system errors. The washer heater now works perfectly, keeping the fluid flowing even in freezing temperatures. Could you share: Whether you notice the problem only during startup or also while driving? What type of winter washer fluid you are using? Have you checked if the heating element gets warm when the car runs? This information would help determine if you are facing the same electrical connection issue or if there might be another problem with the heating system.

Thanks for the detailed response! After reading about your similar experience, I had my washer system checked at my last service (162296KM). The error message appears both during startup and while driving, which matches what you described. The technician confirmed it was indeed the washer heater that failed, not just clogged nozzles. They tested the heating element and found zero resistance, indicating a complete failure rather than just a loose connection like in your case. Unlike your 95€ repair, I was quoted 180€ for a complete heater unit replacement. Before committing to the repair, I would like to know if your fix has remained reliable through multiple winter seasons? Since our symptoms match but the diagnosed issues differ, I want to ensure I am not replacing parts unnecessarily. The winter washer fluid I use is rated for -20 degrees, but without a functioning heater, it still freezes in the nozzles during extreme cold.

Thanks for the follow-up about your washer heater issue. After three winters since my connector repair, I can confirm the fix has been completely reliable on my Smart Forfour. No more error messages or frozen nozzles. The different diagnoses make sense, electrical issues often progress from connection problems to complete component failure. When my connector was repaired, the technician mentioned the heating element itself was still good, showing normal resistance. Your zero resistance reading definitely points to a failed unit rather than just a connection issue. The 180€ quote for a complete heater replacement seems reasonable considering the diagnosis. With winter driving conditions, having properly functioning windshield wipers and washer fluid delivery is crucial for safety. Even with premium winter washer fluid rated for extreme cold, clogged nozzles will persist without a working heater. My suggestion would be to proceed with the replacement since: The diagnostic reading clearly shows component failure, The symptoms match a faulty heater unit, The price is in line with typical heater malfunction repairs Just ensure they check the wiring and connections during installation to prevent future issues. This should give you a long-term solution similar to what I experienced after my repair.

Thanks for the guidance regarding the washer heater system and your experience. I went ahead with the full heater replacement last week and wanted to share the results. The service team completed the repair in about 2 hours. They replaced the faulty heating element and also cleaned the washer motor connections as a preventive measure. The total came to 175€, slightly less than quoted. After a week of freezing temperatures, I can report the system works perfectly. No more error messages or clogged nozzles. The washer fluid now sprays consistently even in cold morning starts. They also showed me how to test if the heater is working by feeling the slight warmth near the windshield washer reservoir after the car runs for a few minutes. The repair has definitely been worth it. Using the same -20 degree rated washer fluid, but now it actually stays liquid thanks to the new heating element. Really appreciate the advice about proceeding with the full replacement rather than trying partial fixes.