Chevrolet Traverse Windshield Washer Pump: A Complete Guide (2009-2022)
Everything a Traverse owner needs to know before replacing a front or rear windshield washer pump.
- The Traverse uses two separate pumps for the front and rear; identify which one has failed before ordering.
- Always check the fluid level and fuses first; a blown 10A fuse in the passenger footwell is a common culprit.
- Replacement is simple: access the pump by pulling back the front passenger wheel well liner.
- Quality aftermarket brands like ACDelco and Trico offer reliable, affordable alternatives to expensive OEM parts.
Is Your Traverse Washer Pump Failing?
A failing washer pump is more than an inconvenience; it's a safety issue. If your windshield is covered in dirt or road salt and you can't clear it, your visibility is dangerously reduced. Most often, the pump simply wears out and the internal motor fails. Sometimes the small impeller inside can break, or the unit can develop a leak. Before you assume the pump is bad, check two simple things first: make sure your washer fluid reservoir is full and check the fuses.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Washer Pump
- No Fluid Spray: The most obvious sign is when no washer fluid sprays onto the front or rear windshield when you activate the switch.
- Silence from the Pump: You should hear a distinct whirring or humming sound when you try to use the washers. If it's silent, the pump motor has likely failed or is not receiving power. 🎬 Watch: How to test and replace your washer pump
- Front Works but Rear Doesn't (or Vice Versa): Because the Traverse uses two separate pumps, a failure will usually only affect the front or the rear system, not both. This is a strong indicator that one of the pumps has failed.
- Fluid Puddle Under Vehicle: While this can also be a cracked reservoir or hose, a leak can sometimes come from a cracked pump housing itself.
Don't Mistake a Clogged Nozzle for a Bad Pump
If you get a weak or uneven spray, or if only one nozzle on the windshield is working, the problem is more likely a clogged nozzle or a kinked hose, not the pump itself. Try cleaning the nozzle openings with a small pin before replacing the pump.
🎬 See how to fix a washer fluid spray issueChoosing the Right Aftermarket Washer Pump for Your Traverse
When replacing the washer pump, you don't need to pay high dealership prices for an OEM part. Quality aftermarket pumps offer the same performance and reliability for a fraction of the cost. The two main brands you will encounter are ACDelco and Trico.
- ACDelco (GM Original Equipment & Gold): ACDelco is General Motors' own parts division. Choosing an ACDelco part, whether it's the OE line or the professional "Gold" line, ensures a perfect fit and OEM-level performance, as they are manufactured to GM's exact specifications.
- Trico: Trico is a highly respected brand that specializes in windshield wiper and washer systems. Their pumps are designed to be a direct-fit replacement, requiring no special modifications to install. They are a reliable and cost-effective alternative to the factory part.
Pro Tip: Check Your Part Numbers
The washer pumps for the first generation (2009-2017) and second generation (2018-2022) Traverse are different. Always confirm the part fits your specific model year before purchasing. For example, the OEM part number for the front pump on a 2018 Traverse is 84993622.
Cost of Replacing a Chevrolet Traverse Washer Pump
Replacing a washer pump is a relatively inexpensive repair, especially if you do it yourself. The part itself is affordable, and the labor is straightforward.
| Cost Category | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Pump | $20 - $40 | This is the typical price range for quality brands like ACDelco and Trico. |
| New OEM Pump | $45 - $85 | This is the price for a genuine GM-branded part, which can be much higher at a dealership. |
| Shop Labor | $95 - $250 | Labor costs vary by shop and location. The job typically takes less than an hour. |
| DIY Total Cost | $20 - $40 | You only pay for the part. |
| Shop Total Cost | $115 - $290 | Includes aftermarket part and labor. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace the Traverse washer pump myself?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly job. The pumps are located on the washer fluid reservoir, which is accessed by removing a few screws on the front passenger-side wheel well liner and pulling it back. Basic hand tools are all that's required. 🎬 Follow this step-by-step washer pump replacement walkthrough The pump pulls straight out of a rubber grommet in the reservoir.
Are the front and rear washer pumps the same part?
While they look very similar and mount in the same way, they often have different part numbers and are not interchangeable. The front pump is usually the one sitting lower in the reservoir. Always order the specific pump (front or rear) that you need to replace.
My rear washer isn't working. Is it always the pump?
Not always. On first-generation Traverse models (2009-2017), there is a known issue where the rear washer fluid hose can be accidentally punctured by a screw for the engine air filter box, causing fluid to leak under the hood instead of spraying on the window. Check for leaks in the engine bay before replacing the rear pump.
I replaced the pump and it still doesn't work. What now?
First, re-check the fuses. The Traverse has washer-related fuses in both the engine bay fuse box and the interior fuse panel under the passenger-side glove box. A blown 10-amp fuse in the interior panel is a common problem. If fuses are good, the problem could be the washer switch on the steering column stalk or a break in the wiring.
Are there any recalls for the Traverse windshield washer pump?
No. As of late 2023, there are no NHTSA safety recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the windshield washer pumps on the 2009-2022 Chevrolet Traverse. Recalls for the Traverse have involved other items like tires or airbags.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 84993622 84993623 13593730 22766715
The system uses two individual, 12-volt electric pumps that press-fit into grommets on the washer fluid reservoir. One pump is designated for the front windshield and the other for the rear window. They are not interchangeable.
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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.
- Chevrolet Traverse:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Traverse Washer Pump Failing?
- Common Symptoms of a Bad Washer Pump
- Don't Mistake a Clogged Nozzle for a Bad Pump
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Washer Pump for Your Traverse
- Pro Tip: Check Your Part Numbers
- Cost of Replacing a Chevrolet Traverse Washer Pump
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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