How to Replace the Windshield Washer Reservoir in a Ford Taurus

Introduced in 1986, the Ford Taurus was a mid-size car, but starting in 2007 it became a full-size. Maintaining your car is a full time job, especially if it's an older model. Learning simple auto repair helps save you money. One task you can accomplish is to replace your windshield washer reservoir, if it develops a leak.

Instructions

1

Select a new windshield washer reservoir--the part number depends on the year of your Ford Taurus. Order it from the dealer or online or get it from a salvage yard. Having the part before you begin, saves you time later.

2

Choose a place to work on your Ford Taurus. Put the car in park, turn it off, engage the emergency brake and open the hood by pulling the hood release.

3

Find the auxiliary release latch by reaching under the center of the hood and pulling it or twisting it to open the hood. Raise the hood and use the prop rod to hold it securely.

4

Inspect the windshield washer reservoir for a leak. It's located in the bottom left part of the engine compartment beneath the coolant reservoir.

5

Remove the battery's negative cable, to avoid any electrical shocks. If your Ford Taurus has air bags, wait 90 seconds before starting to work.

6

Use a screwdriver to unscrew the assembly retaining screw. Then, disconnect the electrical connectors and undo the windshield washer hose. After that, simply lift the assembly from your Taurus.

7

Take off the washer pump and install it in the new windshield washer reservoir. Then, put the reservoir back in place and reconnect the windshield washer hose and the electrical connectors. Screw in the assembly retaining screw and replace the seals; don't reuse the old ones.

8

Reconnect the negative cable to your battery and fill the new reservoir with windshield washer fluid.