How to Replace the Windshield-Washer Reservoir in a VW Passat

The VW Passat is a mid-size family car that's been on the market since 1973. Whether you have a new Passat or an older model, it's important to keep your windshield clean and your windshield washer fluid helps you do this. However, if you have just filled the windshield washer reservoir and you find there isn't any fluid, you probably have a leak and need to fix or replace it.

Instructions

1

Order a new reservoir to replace the old one from the parts supplier for your VW Passat. Some dealerships have parts available for purchase and may have a replacement reservoir in stock, otherwise, ask them to order one for you.

2

Turn the car off and remove the keys from the ignition. Pull the hood release handle beneath the instrument panel and on the left side of your steering column.

3

Exit the car, walk around to the front of your VW Passat, reach under the center of the hood and locate the auxiliary release latch. Twist it to the left to open the hood and hold it open using the prop rod on the engine compartment's edge.

4

Locate the windshield washer fluid reservoir, which is located in the engine compartment near the bottom left corner.

5

Jack up your VW Passat and take off the left front tire. Support the left front of your Passat using jack stands. Remove the wheel well liner--see Step 6--and you will have complete access to the windshield washer reservoir.

6

Unscrew the two 8mm screws located in the front of the wheel well. Then take off the three rivets toward the back of the wheel well, using a flat-head screwdriver and pliers. Next, remove the 10mm plastic nuts located in the middle of the fender liner. Finally, working back to front, free the liner by releasing the lip.

7

Take out the reservoir by removing the three different nuts attached to the reservoir. Then disconnect the hose and any other leads and unscrew the tank. You should then be able to lift the reservoir out of your Passat. Throw away the seals--you'll need to replace these when you install the new reservoir.

8

Screw in the new windshield washer reservoir to install it. Reattach the hose and other leads including those attached to the electrical system, and replace all the seals. After that's complete, reinstall the wheel well liner by reversing the order in Step 6, put your tire back on and lower your VW Passat to the ground.