Test A: Low Washer Fluid Indicator Malfunction

1998 Chevrolet Suburban K2500, 7.4 J, Part TimeSECTION Test A: Low Washer Fluid Indicator Malfunction
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Buick Regal and 2002 Buick Century. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. If wiper/washer system description and operation has been reviewed and preliminary inspection has been performed, go to next step. If wiper/washer system description and operation has not been reviewed and preliminary inspection has not been performed, go to DESCRIPTION & OPERATION  and DIAGNOSTIC STARTING POINT  under TROUBLESHOOTING.
  2. Verify the fault is present. Does the system operate normally? If so, condition is intermittent. See INTERMITTENTS  under TROUBLESHOOTING. If not, go to next step.
  3. Turn the ignition OFF. Disconnect the washer fluid level switch connector. Turn the ignition ON. Does the low washer fluid indicator remain illuminated with the ignition ON? If so, go to step  6 . If not, go to next step.
  4. Turn the ignition OFF. Connect a fused jumper wire from the washer fluid level switch signal circuit terminal in the washer fluid level switch connector to a good ground. Turn the ignition ON. Does the low washer fluid indicator remain illuminated with the ignition ON? If so, go to step  5 . If not, go to step  7 .
  5. Turn the ignition OFF. Connect a fused jumper wire across the washer fluid level switch harness connector terminals. Turn the ignition ON. Does the low washer fluid indicator remain illuminated with the ignition ON? If so, go to step  9 . If not, go to step  8 .
  6. Test the washer fluid level switch signal circuit for a short to ground. Did you find and correct the condition? If so, go to step  14 . If not, go to step  12 .
  7. Test the washer fluid level switch signal circuit for an open or high resistance. Did you find and correct the condition? If so, go to step  14 . If not, go to step  11 .
  8. Test the washer fluid level switch ground circuit for an open or high resistance. Did you find and correct the condition? If so, go to step  14 . If not, go to next step.
  9. Inspect for poor connections at the washer fluid level switch. Did you find and correct the condition? If so, go to step  14 . If not, go to next step.
  10. Replace the washer fluid level switch. See WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH & WASHER FLUID CONTAINER  under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. After repairs are complete, go to step  14 .
  11. Inspect the low washer fluid indicator lamp for an open. Did you find and correct the condition? If so, go to step  14 . If not, go to next step.
  12. Inspect for poor connections at the instrument panel cluster. See appropriate INSTRUMENT PANELS article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT. Did you find and correct the condition? If so, go to step  14 . If not, go to next step.
  13. Replace the instrument panel cluster. See appropriate INSTRUMENT PANELS article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT. After repairs are complete, go to step  14 .
  14. Operate the system in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? If so, system is okay. If not, go to step  3 .
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
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