Leaking Windshield Washer Solvent Reservoir (Replace Solvent Level Switch)

Some customers may comment that there is windshield washer solvent leaking from the underhood washer reservoir area.

The low windshield washer solvent level switch, located in the washer reservoir, may be leaking.

Inspect the low washer solvent level switch for leaks in the area between the top of the switch and the reservoir seal. If the leak is occurring at this location, install a new low washer solvent level switch and seal assembly using the following service procedure. For additional information, see the Wipers/Washer Systems sub-section of Body and Accessories in the appropriate Service Manual.

1. Open the hood and remove the screw attaching the washer reservoir extension (neck) to the inner fender.
2. Remove the bolt securing the filler tube neck and remove the filler tube neck from the reservoir.
3. Remove the right headlamp assembly and remove the bolt attaching the upper part of the reservoir to the body.
4. Raise the vehicle on a hoist and remove the right front tire/wheel.
5. Remove the screws attaching the front of the wheel house plastic liner to the fender.
6. Remove the screws attaching the front of the wheel house liner to the fascia.
7. Remove the screw attaching the front tab on the wheel house liner to the side rail.
8. Reposition the wheel house liner to access the washer reservoir.
9. Remove the bolts attaching the washer reservoir and bracket to the body.
10. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the washer pump and the solvent level switch.
11. Disconnect the washer hose and remove the reservoir and bracket from the vehicle.
12. Remove the washer solvent level switch from the reservoir.
13. Remove the new seal from the new switch and install in the reservoir opening.
14. Lubricate the opening in the seal with windshield washer solvent.
15. Install the switch in the seal/reservoir.
16. Connect the washer hose and the electrical connectors to the washer pump and the solvent level switch.
17. Position the washer reservoir and bracket to the body and install the fasteners.

Tighten
Tighten the fasteners to 5 N·m (44 lb in).

18. Reposition the front of the wheel house liner and install the screw in the front tab.

Tighten
Tighten the screw to 7 N·m (61 lb in).

19. Install the screws attaching the wheel house liner to the front fender.

Tighten
Tighten the screws to 7 N·m (61 lb in).

20. Install the screws attaching the wheel house liner to the fascia.

Tighten
Tighten the screws to 2 N·m (18 lb in).

21. Reinstall the tire/wheel and lower the vehicle.
22. Install the bolt attaching the upper part of the reservoir to the body.

Tighten
Tighten the bolt to 5 N·m (44 lb in).

23. Reinstall the headlamp assembly.
24. Reinstall the filler tube neck into the reservoir and install the retaining bolt.

Tighten
Tighten the bolt to 5 N·m (44 lb in).

25. Close the hood.

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: