VW Polo Washer System Failure, Troubleshooting Guide

Having worked on several VWs, I experienced a similar issue with my 2004 VW Golf diesel. Based on your description, this sounds very familiar. The warning light can be misleading sometimes. Even with a full washer fluid tank, the system might show warnings if the sensor is faulty. In my case, the spray jets were completely clogged with mineral deposits from using poor quality washer fluid. Here is what worked for me: Checked the wiper system fuse first, it was fine, Cleaned the spray jets with a thin needle, Flushed the entire system with proper washer fluid, Fixed a loose connection on the level sensor Total repair cost was 25€ for diagnostic and cleaning at my local workshop. The windshield cleaning system worked perfectly after this simple fix. To help diagnose your specific issue, could you provide: Does the pump make any noise when activated? When was the last time the washer fluid was changed? Are both front spray jets affected or just one side? Have you noticed any washer fluid leaks under the car? This will help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if you might be dealing with a different problem.

Thanks for sharing. After 85145km of use, these symptoms are quite common. The wiper fluid warning light combined with no spray suggests it might be more than just clogged nozzles in my case. Had it checked during last month's service and the washer motor is definitely dead, can confirm there is zero noise when activated. Got a quote for 180€ parts and labor to replace the windshield washer pump assembly. Does this pricing sound reasonable for this repair? Wondering if there are any reliable aftermarket options for the pump that could save some money. Considering doing the work myself since the parts seem accessible, but concerned about proper bleeding of the system after replacement. Any tips on that would be helpful.

Thanks for the update on your Polo. Your symptoms definitely point to a failed washer pump, which matches what my mechanic initially suspected with my car. The 180€ quote for parts and labor is actually quite reasonable for this repair. When my washer pump failed, I initially looked at aftermarket options too. While there are cheaper pumps available around 45-60€, I found the OEM pump was worth the extra cost for better reliability. The aftermarket ones often have issues with spray pressure and tend to fail sooner. If you decide to tackle this yourself, here are the key points from when I did mine: Removing the old pump from the fluid tank is straightforward once you locate the retaining clip, The wiper system bleeding process is simple, just fill the tank and run the washers until you get a steady stream, Make sure to test the spray jets pattern after installation, Double check the electrical connector is fully seated to avoid dashboard light issues One warning though, if your washer fluid level sensor is integrated into the pump assembly, replace the whole unit rather than just the pump. This prevents future warning light problems and ensures proper fluid level monitoring.

Thanks for the advice. After checking prices at several shops, I went ahead and ordered an OEM pump assembly for 85€. Planning to do the replacement myself this weekend since the labor costs seemed high for what looks like a straightforward job. Just to close this out, the windshield washer motor was definitely the culprit. No noise at all when activated and the warning light stayed on despite a full fluid level in the reservoir. Will make sure to properly bleed the wiper system after installation and test both spray jets thoroughly. For anyone searching with similar issues, always start by checking the basics like fuses and clogged nozzles, but if your pump makes zero noise when activated, you are likely looking at a replacement. The repair quote of 180€ seems to be the going rate at most shops, but doing it yourself can save quite a bit if you are comfortable with basic car maintenance. Thanks again for all the helpful responses on diagnosing this issue. Will update once I complete the repair.