Washers Inoperative

2001 Chevrolet Cavalier LS, 2.4 TSECTION Washers Inoperative
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire and 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Washers Inoperative

Step Action Yes No
Schematic Reference:  Wiper/Washer System Schematics  
Connector End View Reference:  Wiper/Washer System Connector End Views  
1 Did you review the Wiper/Washer System Description and Operation and perform the necessary inspections? Go to Step 2  Go to Symptoms - Wiper/Washer Systems 
2
  1. Turn the ignition ON.
  2. Press the windshield washer switch.
Do the windshield washers operate normally?
Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems Go to Step 3 
3
  1. Disconnect the windshield washer pump connector.
  2. Connect a test lamp across the washer pump harness connector terminals.
  3. Turn the ignition ON.
  4. Press the windshield washer switch.
Does the test lamp illuminate?
Go to Step 8  Go to Step 4 
4 Test the windshield washer pump ground circuit for an open or high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 10  Go to Step 5 
5 Test the windshield washer pump control circuit for an open or high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 10  Go to Step 6 
6 Inspect for poor connections at the windshield wiper/washer switch. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 10  Go to Step 7 
7 Replace the windshield wiper/washer switch. Refer to Wipers/Washer Switch Replacement  in Steering Wheel and Column.
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 10  -
8 Inspect for poor connections at the windshield washer pump. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 10  Go to Step 9 
9 Replace the windshield washer pump. Refer to Washer Pump Replacement .
Is the repair complete?
Go to Step 10  -
10 Operate the system in order to verify the repair.
Did you correct the condition?
System OK Go to Step 3 
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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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.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.