SQ5 Washer Nozzle Freeze & Heater Element Fix Needed

Just dealt with a similar issue on my 2017 S5 last month. The windshield heater malfunction often stems from faulty wiring connections rather than the heating element itself. The washer heater system shares components with the washer fluid delivery, so when one fails, it can affect both. After checking the fuse box, it turned out the main culprit was corroded wiring connectors near the washer fluid reservoir. The clogged nozzles were a secondary issue caused by fluid freezing due to the non-functioning heater element. The fix required rewiring the connector assembly and replacing several damaged pins. This is actually a serious electrical issue that can worsen if left unattended. Poor connections can lead to intermittent function and eventually complete system failure. More concerning is the potential for electrical shorts that could affect other systems. The repair involves: Testing the windshield heater circuit, Replacing corroded connector pins, Resealing the wiring harness, Cleaning or replacing clogged nozzles, Checking fuse box connections The job requires specific diagnostic equipment to properly test the heating element circuit, so DIY repair isnt recommended.

Thanks for sharing your S5 experience. Dealing with the same headache on my SQ5 right now. The freezing washer fluid has been a huge pain during cold drives. Your detailed breakdown makes me think I should stop putting this off and get it fixed properly. Did you remember roughly what the repair cost came to? Also curious if youve had any other winter driving issues pop up since getting it fixed? My windshield wipers have been acting strange too lately, so wondering if I should get that checked while its in the shop.

Great news, got the SQ5 heating element issue sorted last week at the shop. The repair was straightforward and cost 95 Euro for fixing a faulty cable connection to the washer heater component. The clogged nozzles are now working perfectly, even in freezing conditions. Winter driving has been trouble-free since the fix. The washer fluid flows smoothly and stays heated, which is a huge improvement for cold weather visibility. No more frozen nozzles or system failures. Regarding the windshield wipers, definitely get those checked while the car is in. Strange wiper behavior can indicate worn bushings or a failing motor. These issues tend to worsen in winter conditions, so its worth addressing before it becomes a bigger problem. The shop found that everything else in the washer system was functioning normally once they sorted the connection issue. The fuse box and other electrical components were all in good shape, it really was just that one faulty connection causing all the trouble.

Thanks everyone for the helpful input. Finally got my SQ5 back from the shop today. Turns out the main issue was indeed the washer motor wiring, plus some corroded connections near the washer fluid reservoir. They also found a hairline crack in one of the fluid lines causing occasional leaks. Total bill came to 280 Euro for parts and labor. Not cheap, but the heating element and windshield wipers are working perfectly now. They also did a full system flush and added winter-grade washer fluid while it was in. The mechanic showed me the old parts, pretty shocking how corroded those connections were. Makes sense why the heater malfunction kept getting worse over time. Glad I got it sorted before winter really hits. First drive home was great, washer fluid sprays evenly, no more frozen nozzles, and the wipers move smoothly. Such a relief to have this fixed properly after months of issues.