A windshield washer reservoir that is cracked will leak washer fluid. You will notice that you are running out of fluid more quickly than usual, or you will see fluid puddling under your car. A damaged reservoir will need to be replaced. Perform a leak test on your reservoir before you remove it and install a new one.

Step 1 - Safety

Be sure you are wearing protective eye wear and that you are working in a well ventilated area. Your car engine should be off and transmission in Park, and the vehicle should be on a level flat surface. Read through the section in your owner's manual regarding the windshield washer reservoir.

Step 2 - Locating the Old Reservoir

Open the hood of your car and locate the old reservoir. Disconnect the fluid hoses from the tank and the motor to the reservoir. If necessary, disconnect any wiring from the electrical system of the car. Remove the reservoir by unscrewing it from the assembly unit. It will have to be removed from above or below the car depending on your vehicle.

Step 3 - Removing the Wheel

The installation of your new reservoir may require the removal of one of your car wheels in order to get to the right area under the vehicle. Removing the wheel is a simple task, but be sure it is supported by a jack stand for safety.

Step 4 - Installing the New Reservoir

The new reservoir will need to be installed from above or below the car depending on how the old reservoir was removed. Screw the new reservoir into the assembly. Attach the hoses from the tank and the motor to the new reservoir. If necessary, connect any wires to the electrical system of the car. Use the recommended sealant to the seal the reservoir into place.

Step 5 - Testing the New Reservoir

Fill the new windshield washer reservoir to the level marked full, with window washer fluid. Turn on the ignition and press the washer fluid button in your car console. The fluid should readily spray from the nozzles near the windshield Be sure the spray from the nozzles is strong and constant. If not, go back and recheck the hose connections to the reservoir.

Step 6 - Consulting a Professional

If you are unsure about how to properly remove the old windshield washer reservoir and replace it with a new one, make an appointment with a service shop to have a professional do the installation for you. If a professional does the work, most of the cost involved will be for labor. A new windshield washer reservoir is a fairly inexpensive purchase. The installation job should take about an hour.