DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual
Page 681 of 2895
If the control knob is held depressed for more than
about thirty seconds, the FCM will suspend washer
pump/motor operation until the knob is released for
about two seconds, then cycled back to the Wash
position; however, the wipers will continue to operate
for as long as the Wash switch is held closed. The
FCM monitors the changing state of the wiper motor
park switch through a hard wired wiper park switch
sense circuit input. This input allows the FCM to
count the number of wipe cycles that occur after the
Wash switch is released, and to determine the proper
interval at which to de-energize the wiper on/off
relay to complete the wipe-after-wash mode cycle.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIPER &
WASHER SYSTEM
If the wiper motor operates, but the wipers do not
move on the windshield, replace the faulty wiper
module. If the washer pump/motor operates, but no
washer fluid is dispensed on the glass; or, if the wip-
ers operate, but chatter, lift, or do not clear the glass,
clean and inspect the wiper and washer system com-
ponents as required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
WIPERS/WASHERS - CLEANING) and (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS - INSPECTION).
For diagnosis and testing of the multi-function
switch (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHT-
ING - EXTERIOR/MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). Refer to the appropri-
ate wiring information. The wiring information
includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector
repair procedures, details of wire harness routing
and retention, connector pin-out information and
location views for the various wire harness connec-
tors, splices and grounds.
The hard wired circuits and components of the
wiper and washer system may be diagnosed and
tested using conventional diagnostic tools and proce-
dures. However, conventional diagnostic methods
may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the
instrument cluster, the Front Control Module (FCM),
or the electronic message inputs to or outputs from
the instrument cluster and the FCM that control the
various wiper and washer system operating modes.
The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to
diagnose the instrument cluster, the FCM, or the
electronic message inputs and outputs related to the
various wiper and washer system operating modes
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER,SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE
PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO
TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
CLEANING - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM
WIPER SYSTEM
The squeegees of wiper blades exposed to the ele-
ments for a long time tend to lose their wiping effec-
tiveness. Periodic cleaning of the squeegees is
suggested to remove any deposits of salt or road film.
The wiper blades, arms, and windshield glass should
only be cleaned using a sponge or soft cloth and
windshield washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-
abrasive cleaner. If the wiper blades continue to
leave streaks, smears, hazing, or beading on the
glass after thorough cleaning of the squeegees and
the glass, the entire wiper blade assembly must be
replaced.
CAUTION: Protect the rubber squeegees of the
wiper blades from any petroleum-based cleaners,
solvents, or contaminants. These products can rap-
idly deteriorate the rubber squeegees.
WASHER SYSTEM
If the washer system is contaminated with foreign
material, drain the washer reservoir by removing the
washer pump/motor from the reservoir. Clean foreign
material from the inside of the washer pump/motor
inlet filter screen and the washer reservoir using
clean washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-abra-
sive cleaner. Flush foreign material from the washer
system plumbing by first disconnecting the washer
hoses from the washer nozzles, then running the
washer pump/motor to run clean washer fluid or
water through the system. Plugged or restricted
washer nozzles should be carefully back-flushed
using compressed air. If the washer nozzle obstruc-
tion cannot be cleared, replace the washer nozzle.
CAUTION: Never introduce petroleum-based clean-
ers, solvents, or contaminants into the washer sys-
tem. These products can rapidly deteriorate the
rubber seals and hoses of the washer system, as
well as the rubber squeegees of the wiper blades.
8R - 6 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)
Page 682 of 2895
CAUTION: Never use compressed air to flush the
washer system plumbing. Compressed air pres-
sures are too great for the washer system plumbing
components and will result in further system dam-
age. Never use sharp instruments to clear a
plugged washer nozzle or damage to the nozzle ori-
fice and improper nozzle spray patterns will result.
INSPECTION - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM
WIPER SYSTEM
The wiper blades and wiper arms should be
inspected periodically, not just when wiper perfor-
mance problems are experienced. This inspection
should include the following points:
(1) Inspect the wiper arms for any indications of
damage, or contamination. If the wiper arms are con-
taminated with any foreign material, clean them as
required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/
WASHERS - CLEANING). If a wiper arm is damaged
or corrosion is evident, replace the wiper arm with a
new unit. Do not attempt to repair a wiper arm that
is damaged or corroded.
(2) Carefully lift the wiper blade off of the glass.
Note the action of the wiper arm hinge. The wiper
arm should pivot freely at the hinge, but with no lat-
eral looseness evident. If there is any binding evident
in the wiper arm hinge, or there is evident lateral
play in the wiper arm hinge, replace the wiper arm.
CAUTION: Do not allow the wiper arm to spring
back against the glass without the wiper blade in
place or the glass may be damaged.
(3) Once proper hinge action of the wiper arm is
confirmed, check the hinge for proper spring tension.
Remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm. Either
place a small postal scale between the blade end of
the wiper arm and the glass, or carefully lift the
blade end of the arm away from the glass using a
small fish scale. Compare the scale readings between
the right and left wiper arms. Replace a wiper arm if
it has comparatively lower spring tension, as evi-
denced by a lower scale reading.
(4) Inspect the wiper blades and squeegees for any
indications of damage, contamination, or rubber dete-
rioration (Fig. 2). If the wiper blades or squeegees
are contaminated with any foreign material, clean
them and the glass as required. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS - CLEANING). After
cleaning the wiper blade and the glass, if the wiper
blade still fails to clear the glass without smearing,
streaking, chattering, hazing, or beading, replace the
wiper blade. Also, if a wiper blade is damaged or the
squeegee rubber is damaged or deteriorated, replacethe wiper blade with a new unit. Do not attempt to
repair a wiper blade that is damaged.
WASHER SYSTEM
The washer system components should be
inspected periodically, not just when washer perfor-
mance problems are experienced. This inspection
should include the following points:
(1) Check for ice or other foreign material in the
washer reservoir. If contaminated, clean and flush
the washer system. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIP-
ERS/WASHERS - CLEANING).
(2) Inspect the washer plumbing for pinched, leak-
ing, deteriorated, or incorrectly routed hoses and
damaged or disconnected hose fittings. Replace dam-
aged or deteriorated hoses and hose fittings. Leaking
washer hoses can sometimes be repaired by cutting
the hose at the leak and splicing it back together
using an in-line connector fitting. Similarly, sections
of deteriorated hose can be cut out and replaced by
splicing in new sections of hose using in-line connec-
tor fittings. Whenever routing a washer hose or a
wire harness containing a washer hose, it must be
routed away from hot, sharp, or moving parts. Also,
sharp bends that might pinch the washer hose must
be avoided.
Fig. 2 Wiper Blade Inspection
1 - WORN OR UNEVEN EDGES
2 - ROAD FILM OR FOREIGN MATERIAL DEPOSITS
3 - HARD, BRITTLE, OR CRACKED
4 - DEFORMED OR FATIGUED
5 - SPLIT
6 - DAMAGED SUPPORT COMPONENTS
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 7
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)
Page 683 of 2895
CHECK VALVE
DESCRIPTION
A single washer system check valve is standard
equipment on this model, and is installed in the
washer system plumbing (Fig. 3). The check valve is
integral to the washer nozzle plumbing wye fitting
located in the cowl plenum area beneath the cowl
plenum cover/grille panel near the base of the wind-
shield. The check valve consists of a molded plastic
body with a raised arrowhead molded into its center
section that indicates the direction of the flow
through the valve, and three barbed hose nipples
formed in a wye configuration on the outside circum-
ference of the center section of the valve body. The
check valve cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The check valve provides more than one function
in this application. It serves as a wye connector fit-
ting between the engine compartment and washer
nozzle sections of the washer supply hose. It prevents
washer fluid from draining out of the washer supply
hoses back to the washer reservoir. This drain-back
would result in a lengthy delay from when the
washer switch is actuated until washer fluid was dis-
pensed through the washer nozzles, because the
washer pump would have to refill the washer plumb-
ing from the reservoir to the nozzles. Such a drain-
back condition could also result in water, dirt, or
other outside contaminants being siphoned into the
washer system through the washer nozzle orifice.
This water could subsequently freeze and plug thenozzle, while other contaminants could interfere with
proper nozzle operation and cause improper nozzle
spray patterns. In addition, the check valve prevents
washer fluid from siphoning through the washer noz-
zles after the washer system is turned Off.
When the washer pump pressurizes and pumps
washer fluid from the reservoir through the washer
plumbing, the fluid pressure unseats a diaphragm
from over a sump well within the valve by overriding
the spring pressure applied to it by a piston (Fig. 4).
With the diaphragm unseated, washer fluid is
allowed to flow toward the two washer nozzles. When
the washer pump stops operating, the spring pres-
sure on the piston seats the diaphragm over the
sump well in the valve and fluid flow in either direc-
tion within the washer plumbing is prevented. The
check valve cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.REMOVAL
(1) Remove both wiper arms from the wiper pivots.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/
WIPER ARM - REMOVAL).
(2) Unlatch and open the hood.
(3) Remove the cowl plenum cover/grille panel
from over the cowl plenum. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EX-
TERIOR/COWL GRILLE - REMOVAL).
(4) From the underside of the cowl plenum cover/
grille panel, disconnect the cowl plenum and washer
nozzle hoses from the three barbed nipples of the
check valve (Fig. 5).
(5) Remove the check valve from the underside of
the cowl plenum cover/grille panel.
Fig. 3 Check Valve
1 - INLET NIPPLE
2 - CHECK VALVE
3 - OUTLET NIPPLE (2)
4 - FLOW DIRECTION ARROW
Fig. 4 Check Valve
1 - SPRING
2 - PISTON
3 - DIAPHRAGM
4 - TO WASHER NOZZLE
5 - FROM WASHER PUMP
8R - 8 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
Page 684 of 2895
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the check valve to the underside of the
cowl plenum cover/grille panel (Fig. 5). Be certain
that the flow direction arrow molded into the check
valve body is oriented towards the washer nozzles.
(2) From the underside of the cowl plenum cover/
grille panel, reconnect the cowl plenum and washer
nozzle hoses to the three barbed nipples of the check
valve.
(3) Reinstall the cowl plenum cover/grille panel
over the cowl plenum. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTERI-
OR/COWL GRILLE - INSTALLATION).
(4) Close and latch the hood.
(5) Reinstall both wiper arms onto the wiper piv-
ots. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/
WIPER ARM - INSTALLATION).
WASHER FLUID LEVEL
SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The washer fluid level switch is a single pole, sin-
gle throw reed-type switch mounted on the outboard
side of the of the washer reservoir in the engine com-
partment (Fig. 6). Only the molded plastic switch
mounting flange and the integral connector recepta-
cle are visible when the switch is installed in the res-
ervoir. A short nipple formation extends from the
inner surface of the switch mounting flange, and a
barb on the nipple near the switch mounting flange
is pressed through a rubber grommet seal installed
in the mounting hole of the reservoir.A small, molded plastic float has two pivot pins
near its center that are snapped into two receptacles
near the ends of two stanchions that extend toward
the float from the switch nipple formation. A small
magnet is secured within the end of the float nearest
the switch nipple formation, and a reed switch is con-
cealed within the nipple. A diagnostic resistor is con-
nected between the two switch terminals within the
switch mounting flange. The washer fluid level
switch cannot be adjusted or repaired. If faulty or
damaged, the switch must be replaced.
OPERATION
The washer fluid level switch uses a pivoting,
oblong float to monitor the level of the washer fluid
in the washer reservoir. The float contains a small
magnet. When the float pivots, the proximity of this
magnet to a stationary reed switch within the nipple
formation of the switch changes. When the fluid level
in the washer reservoir is at or above the float level,
the float moves to a vertical position, the influence of
the float magnetic field is removed from the reed
switch, and the normally open reed switch contacts
open. When the fluid level in the washer reservoir
falls below the level of the pivoting float, the float
moves to a horizontal position, the influence of the
float magnetic field is applied to the reed switch, and
the contacts of the normally open reed switch close.
Fig. 5 Check Valve Remove/Install
1 - WASHER NOZZLE HOSE (RIGHT)
2 - CHECK VALVE
3 - ROUTING CLIP
4 - COWL PLENUM WASHER HOSE
5 - COWL PLENUM COVER/GRILLE PANEL (UNDERSIDE)
6 - WASHER NOZZLE HOSE (LEFT)
Fig. 6 Washer Fluid Level Switch
1 - MOUNTING FLANGE
2 - BARBED NIPPLE
3 - FLOAT
4 - RESERVOIR
5 - GROMMET SEAL
6 - PIVOT
7 - MAGNET
8 - CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 9
CHECK VALVE (Continued)
Page 685 of 2895
The washer fluid level switch is connected to the
vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take
out and connector of the right (except V-10 and diesel
engines) or left (V-10 and diesel engines only) head-
lamp and dash wire harness. The switch is connected
in series between a clean ground output of the Front
Control Module (FCM) on a sensor return circuit and
the washer fluid switch sense input to the FCM.
When the switch closes, the FMC senses the ground
on the washer fluid switch sense circuit. The FMC is
programmed to respond to this input by sending an
electronic washer fluid indicator lamp-on message to
the instrument cluster over the Programmable Com-
munications Interface (PCI) data bus. The instru-
ment cluster responds to this message by
illuminating the washer fluid indicator and by sound-
ing an audible chime tone warning.
The washer fluid level switch may be diagnosed
and tested using conventional diagnostic tools and
procedures. However, conventional diagnostic meth-
ods may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the
instrument cluster, the Front Control Module (FCM),
or the electronic message inputs to or outputs from
the instrument cluster and the FCM that control the
operation of the washer fluid visual and/or audible
indicators. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the washer fluid level indicator,
the instrument cluster, the FCM, or the electronic
message inputs and outputs related to the washer
fluid indicator requires the use of a DRBIIItscan
tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
The washer fluid level switch can be removed from
the washer reservoir without removing the reservoir
from the vehicle.
(1) Unlatch and open the hood.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Disconnect the washer hose from the barbed
outlet nipple of the washer pump/motor unit and
allow the washer fluid to drain into a clean container
for reuse.
(4) Disconnect the right (except V-10 and diesel
engine) or left (V-10 and diesel engine only) head-
lamp and dash wire harness connector for the washer
fluid level switch from the switch connector recepta-
cle (Fig. 7) or (Fig. 8).
NOTE: The pivoting float of the washer fluid level
switch must be in a horizontal position within the
reservoir in order to be removed. With the reservoir
empty and in an upright position, the pivoting float
will orient itself to the horizontal position when the
switch connector receptacle is pointed straight
upwards.(5) Using a trim stick or another suitable wide
flat-bladed tool, gently pry the barbed nipple of the
washer fluid level switch out of the rubber grommet
seal on the reservoir sump. Care must be taken not
to damage the reservoir.
Fig. 7 Washer Fluid Level Switch Remove/Install -
Except V-10 & Diesel Engine
1 - WASHER HOSE
2 - WASHER RESERVOIR
3 - WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
4 - WIRE HARNESS
5 - WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
Fig. 8 Washer Fluid Level Switch Remove/Install -
V-10 & Diesel Engine
1 - WIRE HARNESS
2 - WASHER RESERVOIR
3 - WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
4 - WASHER HOSE
5 - WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
8R - 10 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH (Continued)
Page 686 of 2895
(6) Remove the washer fluid level switch from the
washer reservoir.
(7) Remove the rubber grommet seal from the
washer fluid level switch mounting hole in the
washer reservoir and discard.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install a new rubber grommet seal into the
washer fluid level switch mounting hole in the
washer reservoir. Always use a new rubber grommet
seal on the reservoir.
(2) Insert the float of the washer fluid level switch
through the rubber grommet seal and into the
washer reservoir. The connector receptacle of the
washer fluid level switch should be pointed upward.
(3) Using hand pressure, press firmly and evenly
on the washer fluid level switch mounting flange
until the barbed nipple is fully seated in the rubber
grommet seal in the washer reservoir mounting hole.
(4) Reconnect the right (except V-10 and diesel
engine) or left (V-10 and diesel engine only) head-
lamp and dash wire harness connector for the washer
fluid level switch to the switch connector receptacle
(Fig. 7) or (Fig. 8).
(5) Reconnect the removed washer hose to the
barbed outlet nipple of the washer pump/motor unit.
(6) Refill the washer reservoir with the washer
fluid drained from the reservoir during the removal
procedure.
(7) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(8) Close and latch the hood.
WASHER HOSES/TUBES
DESCRIPTION
The washer plumbing consists of a small diameter
rubber reservoir washer hose that is routed from the
barbed outlet nipple of the electric washer pump/mo-
tor unit on the washer reservoir through a trough
molded into the back of the reservoir above the
washer pump and to the engine compartment washer
hose (Fig. 9). On models equipped with an optional
V-10 or diesel engine, the reservoir washer hose is
routed through routing clips on the top of the radia-
tor fan shroud from the washer reservoir on the left
side of the radiator to the engine compartment
washer hose on the right side of the radiator. The
engine compartment washer hose is contained within
the right headlamp and dash wire harness, which is
routed through the engine compartment along the
top of the right front fender wheel house to the dash
panel.
The engine compartment washer hose is connected
to the washer reservoir washer hose and to the cowl
plenum washer hose with molded plastic in-line fit-tings that have a barbed nipple on each end. The
cowl plenum washer hose is routed from the engine
compartment into the cowl plenum area through a
trough formation located near the right end of the
cowl plenum cover/grille panel. The cowl plenum
washer hose is connected to the washer system check
valve/wye fitting on the underside of the cowl plenum
cover/grille panel. The cowl plenum washer hose and
the two washer nozzle hoses are routed through inte-
gral routing clips on the underside of the cowl ple-
num cover/grille panel. The cowl plenum washer hose
is connected to one nipple on the wye fitting and the
two washer nozzle hoses are connected to the other
two wye fitting nipples. The washer nozzle hoses are
then routed along the underside of the cowl plenum
cover/grille panel to the two washer nozzles.
Washer hose is available for service only as roll
stock, which must then be cut to length. The molded
plastic washer hose fittings cannot be repaired. If
these fittings are faulty or damaged, they must be
replaced.
OPERATION
Washer fluid in the washer reservoir is pressurized
and fed by the washer pump/motor through the
washer system plumbing and fittings to the two
washer nozzles. Whenever routing the washer hose
or a wire harness containing a washer hose, it must
be routed away from hot, sharp, or moving parts;
and, sharp bends that might pinch the hose must be
avoided.
Fig. 9 Engine Compartment Washer Hose
1 - RIGHT FENDER
2 - RIGHT HEADLAMP & DASH WIRE HARNESS
3 - ENGINE COMPARTMENT WASHER HOSE (TO COWL
PLENUM)
4 - COWL PLENUM WASHER HOSE
5 - ENGINE COMPARTMENT WASHER HOSE (TO WASHER
RESERVOIR)
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 11
WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH (Continued)
Page 687 of 2895
WASHER NOZZLE
DESCRIPTION
The two washer nozzles have integral snap fea-
tures and an anti-rotation tab that secure them in
dedicated holes in the cowl plenum cover/grille panel
located near the base of the windshield (Fig. 10). The
domed upper surface of the washer nozzle is visible
on the top of the plenum cover/grille panel, and the
nozzle orifice is oriented towards the windshield
glass. The washer plumbing fittings for the washer
nozzles are concealed beneath the cowl plenum cover/
grille panel. These fluidic washer nozzles are con-
structed of molded plastic. The cowl plenum cover/
grille panel must be removed from the vehicle to
access the nozzles for service. The washer nozzles
cannot be adjusted or repaired. If faulty or damaged,
they must be replaced.
OPERATION
The two washer nozzles are designed to dispense
washer fluid into the wiper pattern area on the out-
side of the windshield glass. Pressurized washer fluid
is fed to each nozzle from the washer reservoir by the
washer pump/motor unit through a single hose,
which is attached to a barbed nipple on each washer
nozzle below the cowl plenum cover/grille panel. A
fluidic matrix within the washer nozzle causes the
pressurized washer fluid to be emitted from the noz-
zle orifice as an oscillating stream to more effectively
cover a larger area of the glass to be cleaned.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove both wiper arms from the wiper pivots.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/
WIPER ARM - REMOVAL).
(2) Unlatch and open the hood.
(3) Remove the cowl plenum cover/grille panel
from over the cowl plenum. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EX-
TERIOR/COWL GRILLE - REMOVAL).
(4) From the underside of the cowl plenum cover/
grille panel, disconnect the washer nozzle hose from
the barbed nipple of the washer nozzle (Fig. 11).
(5) From the underside of the cowl plenum cover/
grille panel, release the integral snap features of the
washer nozzle and push the nozzle out through the
mounting hole toward the top side of the cowl ple-
num cover/grille panel.
(6) Remove the washer nozzle from the top of the
cowl plenum cover/grille panel.
INSTALLATION
(1) From the top of the cowl plenum cover/grille
panel, position the nipple end of the washer nozzle
through the mounting hole and engage the anti-rota-
tion tab of the nipple into the anti-rotation notch in
the mounting hole.
(2) Using hand pressure, push firmly and evenly
on the top of the washer nozzle until the integral
snap features lock into place on the underside of the
cowl plenum cover/grille panel.
(3) From the underside of the cowl plenum cover/
grille panel, reconnect the washer hose to the barbed
nipple of the washer nozzle (Fig. 11).
Fig. 10 Washer Nozzle
1 - HOOD
2 - LATCH (2)
3 - NIPPLE
4 - ANTI-ROTATION TAB
5 - ORIFICE
Fig. 11 Washer Nozzle Remove/Install
1 - COWL PLENUM COVER/GRILLE PANEL (UNDERSIDE)
2 - ANTI-ROTATION TAB (LARGE)
3 - NIPPLE
4 - ANTI-ROTATION TAB (SMALL)
5 - PLIERS
6 - LATCH (2)
8R - 12 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
Page 688 of 2895
(4) Reinstall the washer hose for the washer noz-
zle into its routing clips on the underside of the cowl
plenum cover/grille panel.
(5) Reinstall the cowl plenum cover/grille panel
over the cowl plenum. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTERI-
OR/COWL GRILLE - INSTALLATION).
(6) Close and latch the hood.
(7) Reinstall both wiper arms onto the wiper piv-
ots. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/
WIPER ARM - INSTALLATION).
WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
DESCRIPTION
The washer pump/motor unit (Fig. 12) is located on
the rearward facing surface of the washer reservoir,
in the right (except V-10 or diesel engine) or left
(V-10 and diesel engine only) front corner of the
engine compartment. A small permanently lubricated
and sealed electric motor is coupled to the rotor-type
washer pump. A seal flange with a barbed inlet nip-
ple on the pump housing passes through a rubber
grommet seal installed in a dedicated mounting hole
of the washer reservoir. When the pump is installed
in the reservoir a barbed outlet nipple on the pumphousing connects the unit to the washer system
through a short washer reservoir hose.
The washer pump/motor unit is retained on the
reservoir by the interference fit between the barbed
pump inlet nipple and the grommet seal, which is a
light press fit. The top of the washer pump is also
secured to the washer reservoir by the use of a snap
post on the motor housing and a snap post receptacle
molded into the reservoir that allows for mounting of
the washer pump without the use of fasteners. An
integral connector receptacle on the top of the motor
housing connects the unit to the vehicle electrical
system. The washer pump/motor unit cannot be
repaired. If faulty or damaged, the entire washer
pump/motor unit must be replaced.
OPERATION
The washer pump/motor unit features a small
Direct Current (DC) electric motor. The motor is con-
nected to the vehicle electrical system through a sin-
gle take out and two-cavity connector of the right
(except V-10 or diesel engine) or left (V-10 or diesel
engine only) headlamp and dash wire harness. The
motor is grounded at all times through another take
out of the right (except V-10 or diesel engine) or left
(V-10 or diesel engine only) headlamp and dash wire
harness. On models without the V-10 or diesel engine
a single eyelet terminal connector is secured by a nut
to a ground stud located on the right front fender
inner shield in the engine compartment. On models
with a V-10 or diesel engine an eyelet terminal con-
nector is secured by a ground screw to the left front
fender inner shield in the engine compartment. The
motor receives battery current on a washer pump/
motor control circuit.
The washer pump/motor control circuit is energized
through a high side driver within the Front Control
Module (FCM) whenever the FCM receives an elec-
tronic message requesting washer system operation
from the instrument cluster over the Programmable
Communications Interface (PCI) data bus. The
instrument cluster monitors a resistor multiplexed
hard wired input from the momentary washer switch
contacts within the multi-function switch on the
steering column to determine when it should issue
the electronic message requesting washer system
operation.
Washer fluid is gravity-fed from the washer reser-
voir to the inlet side of the washer pump. When the
pump motor is energized, the motor spins the rotor
within the washer pump. The spinning pump rotor
pressurizes the washer fluid and forces it through
the pump outlet nipple, the washer plumbing, and
the washer nozzles onto the windshield glass.
The washer pump/motor unit may be diagnosed
using conventional diagnostic tools and methods.
Fig. 12 Washer Pump/Motor
1 - MOTOR
2 - SNAP POST
3 - CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
4 - PUMP
5 - OUTLET NIPPLE
6 - INLET NIPPLE
7 - FILTER SCREEN
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 13
WASHER NOZZLE (Continued)
Page 689 of 2895
However, conventional diagnostic methods may not
prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the instrument
cluster, the Front Control Module (FCM), or the elec-
tronic message inputs to or outputs from the instru-
ment cluster and the FCM that control the operation
of the washer pump/motor unit. The most reliable,
efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the washer
pump/motor unit, the instrument cluster, the FCM,
or the electronic message inputs and outputs related
to the washer pump/motor unit operation requires
the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appro-
priate diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
The washer pump/motor unit can be removed from
the washer reservoir without removing the reservoir
from the vehicle.
(1) Unlatch and open the hood.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Disconnect the washer hose from the barbed
outlet nipple of the washer pump/motor unit and
allow the washer fluid to drain into a clean container
for reuse.
(4) Disconnect the right (except V-10 or diesel
engine) or left (V-10 or diesel engine only) headlamp
and dash wire harness connector for the washer
pump/motor unit from the motor connector receptacle
(Fig. 13).
(5) Firmly grasp the top of the washer pump/motor
housing.
(6) Pull lightly outward on the top of the washer
pump/motor housing away from the washer reservoir
far enough to disengage the snap post on the top of
the motor from the receptacle in the reservoir.
(7) Pull the washer pump/motor unit straight out
from the washer reservoir far enough to disengage
the barbed pump inlet nipple from the rubber grom-
met seal in the reservoir.
(8) Disconnect the reservoir washer hose from the
washer pump/motor unit outlet nipple.
(9) Remove washer pump/motor unit from the back
of the washer reservoir.
(10) Remove the rubber grommet seal from the
washer reservoir and discard.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install a new rubber grommet seal into the
washer pump mounting hole in the washer reservoir.
Always use a new rubber grommet seal on the reser-
voir.
(2) Position the barbed inlet nipple of the washer
pump to the rubber grommet seal in the washer res-
ervoir (Fig. 13).(3) Using hand pressure, press on the washer
pump/motor unit firmly and evenly until the barbed
inlet nipple is fully seated in the rubber grommet
seal in the washer reservoir mounting hole.
(4) Align the washer pump/motor snap post on the
top of the motor housing with the snap post recepta-
cle in the washer reservoir.
(5) Using hand pressure, press firmly and evenly
on the top of washer pump/motor unit until the snap
post snaps into the washer reservoir receptacle.
(6) Reconnect the washer reservoir hose to the
barbed outlet nipple of the washer pump.
(7) Reconnect the right (except V-10 or diesel
engine) or left (V-10 or diesel engine only) headlamp
and dash wire harness connector for the washer
pump/motor unit to the motor connector receptacle.
(8) Refill the washer reservoir with the washer
fluid drained from the reservoir during the removal
procedure.
(9) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(10) Close and latch the hood.
Fig. 13 Washer Pump/Motor Remove/Install
1 - CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
2 - SNAP POST
3 - SNAP POST RECEPTACLE
4 - GROMMET SEAL
5 - WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
6 - WASHER RESERVOIR
7 - INLET NIPPLE
8 - OUTLET NIPPLE
8R - 14 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WASHER PUMP/MOTOR (Continued)
Page 690 of 2895
WASHER RESERVOIR
DESCRIPTION
Except on models equipped with an optional V-10
or diesel engine, the molded plastic washer fluid res-
ervoir is mounted on the right rearward facing sur-
face of the cooling module radiator shroud in the
engine compartment (Fig. 14). On models with the
V-10 or diesel engine, the molded plastic washer fluid
reservoir is mounted on the rearward facing surface
of the left vertical member of the radiator support in
the engine compartment. The reservoir is a molded
unit constructed of a translucent plastic that allows
the washer fluid level to be inspected without remov-
ing the washer reservoir cap. The most visible com-
ponent of the washer reservoir is the filler cap unit,
which is secured to and hinges on a hook feature
that is integral to the filler neck near the top of the
reservoir. The bright yellow plastic filler cap snaps
over the filler neck opening and seals the reservoiropening with an integral rubber gasket. The filler
cap is labeled with an International Control and Dis-
play Symbol icon for ªWindshield Washerº and the
text ªWasher Fluid Onlyº that are molded into it and
highlighted in black against the yellow plastic cap for
visibility.
There are dedicated holes near the bottom of the
rearward facing side of the reservoir provided for the
mounting of the washer pump/motor unit and the
washer fluid level switch. A snap post receptacle
molded into the reservoir allows for mounting of the
washer pump without the use of fasteners. The res-
ervoir also features an integral hose routing trough
on its rearward facing side. Except on models with a
V-10 or diesel engine, the washer reservoir is secured
to the cooling module radiator shroud with three
integral tabs, two at the bottom and one at the top.
The two bottom tabs are inserted into two slots near
the bottom of the shroud, while the upper tab slides
into an integral channel-like slot near the top of the
shroud. A molded lock feature on the forward facing
surface of the reservoir engages a molded depression
on the rearward facing surface of the radiator shroud
when the reservoir is fully seated on the shroud,
locking the unit securely in place. On models with a
V-10 or diesel engine, the washer reservoir is secured
with two screws through integral mounting tabs to
the left vertical member of the radiator support. On
many models, a molded plastic coolant recovery con-
tainer or a coolant pressure container must be
detached from the top of the cooling module and
moved aside to access the washer fluid reservoir for
service. This may be accomplished without opening
or draining the engine cooling system.
OPERATION
The washer fluid reservoir provides a secure,
on-vehicle storage location for a large reserve of
washer fluid for operation of the washer system. The
washer reservoir filler neck provides a clearly
marked and readily accessible point from which to
add washer fluid to the reservoir. The washer/pump
motor unit is located in a sump area near the bottom
of the reservoir to be certain that washer fluid will
be available to the pump as the fluid level in the res-
ervoir becomes depleted. The washer pump/motor
unit is mounted in the lowest position in the sump.
The washer fluid level switch is mounted just above
the sump area of the reservoir so that there will be
adequate warning to the vehicle operator that the
washer fluid level is low, well before the washer sys-
tem will no longer operate.
Fig. 14 Washer Reservoir - except V-10 & Diesel
Engine
1-TOPTAB
2 - HOOK FEATURE
3 - CAP
4 - RESERVOIR
5 - TROUGH
6 - HOSE
7 - LOCK FEATURE
8 - WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
9 - WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
10 - BOTTOM TAB (2)
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 15