Ford Fiesta Windshield Washer Pump Replacement Guide (2011-2019)
Having trouble cleaning your windshield? This guide covers common washer pump issues for the North American Ford Fiesta.
- This guide is for the 2011-2019 Ford Fiesta sold in North America; the 2006-2010 model was not sold in this market.
- Failure is obvious: no fluid sprays, and you may or may not hear the pump's motor hum.
- An aftermarket Trico pump is a reliable and cost-effective alternative to the OEM part for this component.
- Replacement is a simple DIY job, accessed by removing the passenger side front wheel and fender liner.
A Note on Vehicle Model Years
This article applies to the Ford Fiesta sold in the North American market, which covers the 2011-2019 model years. The 2006-2010 Ford Fiesta was not sold in the United States or Canada. If you have a Fiesta from that era, it is likely a European model, and parts may differ.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Washer Pump
When your washer pump starts to fail, the signs are usually obvious. You might be pressing the button, but nothing is happening. Here’s what to look for:
- No Fluid Spraying: This is the most common symptom. The wipers move, but no fluid comes out on the front or rear windshield.
- No Sound from the Pump: When you activate the washer, you should hear a faint whirring or humming sound from the front of the car, usually near the passenger-side wheel well. If it's silent, the pump's motor has likely failed or isn't receiving power. 🎬 Watch this video to learn how to troubleshoot the pump.
- Pump Runs, But No Fluid: If you can hear the pump running but no fluid sprays, the pump's internal impeller might be broken. It could also be caused by clogged nozzles, blocked hoses, or a gunked-up filter at the pump's intake. Mixing different brands of washer fluid can sometimes cause gelling, which clogs the system.
- Only One Sprayer Works: On hatchback models, the pump reverses to feed the rear washer. If only the front or rear works, it could point to a problem inside the pump or an issue with the control switch on the steering column.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Pump
For a simple component like a washer pump, an aftermarket part is a cost-effective and reliable choice. The original equipment (OEM) part from Ford or Motorcraft works perfectly well, but an aftermarket brand like Trico can provide the same performance for less money.
Trico is a well-known brand in windshield wiper and washer systems, founded in 1917. Their aftermarket pumps are designed to be direct-fit replacements, meaning they install easily without modification. For a part like this, which is not a complex, high-stress component, a quality aftermarket pump from a reputable brand is a smart repair choice.
Cost Comparison: 2011-2019 Ford Fiesta Washer Pump
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Trico) | $42.96 - $47.52 |
| New OEM (Ford/Motorcraft) | $35 - $70 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Installation Tips
Replacing the washer pump on a 2011-2019 Fiesta is a straightforward job that most DIYers can handle. The pump is typically accessed by removing the front passenger-side wheel and pulling back the fender liner. The pump itself just pushes into a rubber grommet on the bottom of the washer fluid reservoir. No special tools are usually required beyond basic hand tools to remove the wheel and fender liner clips.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing the washer pump.Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
Searches for official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) specifically for washer pump failure on the 2011-2019 Ford Fiesta did not yield any results. While some Ford models had recalls for contaminated washer fluid, the Fiesta was not listed among them. Forum discussions sometimes point to the multifunction switch on the steering column as a potential cause of failure, where the pump itself is fine but the switch isn't sending the signal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to drive with a broken windshield washer pump?
Yes, but with caution. A broken washer pump does not affect the primary operation of the vehicle. However, your ability to clean your windshield while driving is a critical safety feature, especially in bad weather or if the glass is hit with mud, insects, or road salt. It is recommended to get it fixed as soon as possible.
Why does only my rear (or front) washer work?
The Fiesta uses a single pump that reverses polarity to spray either the front or rear glass. If one works and the other doesn't, the problem could be the pump itself, a blockage in one of the lines, or an electrical issue with the control stalk on the steering column not properly reversing the signal.
I hear the pump motor, but no fluid comes out. What's wrong?
This usually indicates a blockage. The small filter at the base of the pump can get clogged with debris or gelled washer fluid. The washer nozzles on the hood can also get clogged with wax or dirt. Try cleaning the nozzles with a small pin first. 🎬 See how to fix a front washer that isn't spraying. If that doesn't work, the blockage is likely at the pump filter.
How do I access the washer pump on my Fiesta?
You will need to access the washer fluid reservoir, which is located in the front passenger-side wheel well. The job typically requires jacking up the vehicle, removing the front passenger wheel, and removing some clips from the plastic fender liner to pull it back and reach the reservoir and pump.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: BE8Z-17664-A BE8Z-17664-B JL1Z-17664-A H1BB17664AA H1BB17664AB H1BB17664AC H1BB17664AD
12V electric motor pump. For hatchback models, the pump is a reversing type with two hose outlets (front and rear). Sedan models may use a pump with a single outlet.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Fiesta: