Low Washer Fluid Indicator Malfunction

Low Washer Fluid Indicator Malfunction

Diagnostic Instructions

* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle (with HP2) (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview)Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle (without HP2) (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview) prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview) for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions (Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview) provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Diagnostic Fault Information





Circuit/System Description

The Check Washer Fluid message is controlled by the instrument panel cluster (IPC) using an input from the washer fluid level switch. The washer fluid level signal circuit is supplied ignition voltage through a resistor then monitored within the instrument cluster. The washer fluid level switch is normally open so the instrument cluster detects ignition voltage on the washer fluid level signal circuit whenever the washer fluid level is not low. When the washer fluid reaches the point where the driver should be informed that the washer fluid is low, the washer fluid level switch closes. When the washer fluid level switch is closed the washer fluid level signal circuit voltage is pulled low, and the instrument panel displays the Check Washer Fluid message on the driver information center. In order to prevent the Check Washer Fluid message from being displayed while sloshing is occurring in the washer fluid container, the instrument cluster is programed with a delay before changing states of the Check Washer Fluid message during an ignition cycle.

Reference Information
Schematic Reference

Instrument Cluster Schematics (Instrument Cluster Schematics)
Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views (Connector Views)
Description and Operation

Wiper/Washer System Description and Operation (Wiper/Washer System Description and Operation)
Electrical Information Reference

* Circuit Testing (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
* Connector Repairs (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
* Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)
* Wiring Repairs (Component Tests and General Diagnostics)

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References (Programming and Relearning) for scan tool information

Circuit/System Testing

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the washer fluid level switch.
2. Test for less than 1.0 ohm between the ground circuit terminal B and ground.

• If greater than the specified range, test the ground circuit for an open/high resistance.

3. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool Washer Fluid Level parameter is OK.

• If not the specified value, test the signal circuit terminal A for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the IPC.

4. Install a 3A fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal A and ground. Verify the scan tool Washer Fluid Level parameter is Low.

• If not the specified value, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the IPC.

5. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the washer fluid level switch.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification (Verification Tests) after completing the diagnostic procedure.

* Windshield Washer Solvent Level Indicator Replacement (Service and Repair)
* Control Module References (Programming and Relearning) for IPC replacement, setup, and programming