How to Replace the Windshield-Washer Reservoir in a Dodge Caravan

On the market since 1984, the Dodge Caravan is a minivan manufactured by Chrysler. Whether you have a new Caravan or an older model, keeping the windshield clean is a full time job, aided by using your windshield washer fluid. However, if you recently filled your washer reservoir and found it's empty when trying to use it, you probably have a leak and you need to fix or replace it.

Instructions

1

Place an order for a new reservoir from the parts supplier for your Dodge Caravan. Some dealerships may have a replacement reservoir in stock for purchase; otherwise, ask them to order one for you. Ordering the reservoir before you dismantle the car saves you from having to dismantle it twice and you can always take it back if you don't need it.

2

Turn the car off and remove the keys from the ignition. Pull the hood release handle beneath the instrument panel of your Dodge Caravan. Exit the car, walk around to the front, reach under the center of the hood and locate the auxiliary release latch. Twist it to the left to open the hood.

3

Raise the hood until the hydraulic hood catches and it stays open on its own. Locate the windshield washer fluid reservoir, which is on the left side of the engine compartment next to the large air-cleaning filter.

4

Disconnect the negative cable on the battery and the connectors from the front rear and level sensors. Remove the right front wheelhouse splash shield in order to get to the windshield washer reservoir in your Dodge Caravan. To do this, take off the five plastic rivets holding the wheelhouse splash shield. This will give you complete access to the windshield washer reservoir.

5

Remove the hose and any other leads from the reservoir and unbolt the tank. You should then be able to lift the reservoir out of your Caravan. Throw away the seals--you'll need to replace these when you install the new reservoir.

6

Screw in the new windshield washer reservoir to install it. Reattach the hose and other leads for the windshield washer reservoir and replace all the seals. After that's complete, reassemble the wheelhouse splash shield by reversing the order in Step 4 and reconnect the connectors on the front rear and level sensors and the negative cable on the battery.