Ford Explorer Windshield Washer Pump: A Guide for 2011-2021 Models
If your washer fluid isn't spraying, this guide will help you find the right replacement pump for your Explorer.
- A single pump operates both front and rear washers on the 2011-2021 Explorer.
- If you hear no hum, the pump or its fuse is the likely culprit; if you hear a hum but get no spray, check for clogs first.
- Replacement is an easy DIY job, accessible through the passenger-side wheel well.
- Quality aftermarket brands like ACDelco offer a reliable, cost-effective alternative to OEM.
Is Your Explorer's Washer Pump Failing?
A working washer system is critical for safe driving, especially in bad weather. When the pump fails, you can't clear dirt, salt, or bugs from your windshield. The most common sign of a bad pump is when you activate the washer and nothing happens. Listen closely: if you don't hear a humming noise from the front passenger side of the vehicle, the pump motor is likely dead.
Common Failure Symptoms
- No Spray: No fluid sprays onto the front or rear windshield.
- No Sound: You don't hear the typical hum of the pump motor when you press the washer button.
- Weak Spray: The fluid stream is weak or inconsistent, which could mean the pump motor is getting old or there's a clog.
- Leaks: You notice a puddle of washer fluid under the front passenger-side wheel area. This can be caused by a cracked pump housing or a worn-out rubber seal (grommet) where the pump enters the reservoir.
- Only One End Works: Fluid sprays on the front but not the back, or vice-versa. This can indicate a failure within the dual-action pump or a blocked/disconnected hose to one end of the vehicle.
Check This First!
Before you buy a new pump, make sure your washer fluid reservoir is full. Also, check for simple clogs. Use a small pin to clean the openings on the washer nozzles on the hood. If the pump hums but nothing sprays, the problem is more likely a clog in the lines or a disconnected hose, not a failed pump.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Pump
For the 2011-2021 Explorer, you don't need to buy an expensive OEM part from the dealer. High-quality aftermarket pumps offer the same performance for less money. The key is to choose a reputable brand to ensure strong spray pressure and long life.
- ACDelco: Often considered a top-tier aftermarket brand, ACDelco Professional series pumps are designed to meet or exceed original specifications. Owners report that they provide strong, consistent spray pressure similar to the factory part. One owner even noted they chose ACDelco after their original Ford pump failed.
- Trico: Trico is another well-known brand in wiper and washer systems. Their pumps are designed to be a direct fit, making installation easy without any modifications needed.
Avoid cheap, no-name pumps. While they may be inexpensive, they often suffer from weak motors that can't provide enough pressure to effectively clean your windshield, especially the rear window.
Estimated Replacement Costs
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (ACDelco, Trico) | $47.52 - $55.65 |
| New OEM (Ford Motorcraft) | $45 - $95 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
DIY Installation is Easy
Replacing the washer pump on an Explorer is a great job for a beginner. It requires basic hand tools and about 30-60 minutes. The pump is accessed by removing a few screws from the passenger-side front wheel well liner and pulling it back. You don't even need to remove the wheel. Just be sure to have a bucket ready to catch the old washer fluid when you pull the old pump out.
🎬 See this step-by-step guide to replacing the washer pump.Known Issues: Recalls and Service Bulletins
There are no major recalls specifically for washer pump failure on the 2011-2021 Ford Explorer.
- A minor recall (21C01) was issued for a small number of 2020 Explorer Police Interceptors due to contaminated washer fluid from the factory, which required a pump replacement. This does not affect standard consumer models.
- You may have heard of a wiper-related recall (26S14) for 2020-2022 Explorers. This recall is for the wiper motor, which makes the wipers move, not the washer pump that sprays the fluid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Ford Explorer have separate pumps for the front and rear?
No, the 2011-2021 Explorer uses a single pump with two outlets. The pump motor spins in one direction for the front windshield and reverses direction for the rear window.
Should I check a fuse before replacing the pump?
Yes. If you don't hear the pump motor hum, a blown fuse is a possibility. On 2011-2015 models, the main windshield washer pump fuse is typically fuse #82 (a 15-amp fuse) in the under-hood fuse box. Always check your owner's manual for the correct fuse location for your specific model year.
🎬 Watch: How to find and replace the washer pump fuse.Can I replace the washer pump myself?
Yes, this is a relatively easy DIY repair. The pump is located on the reservoir behind the passenger front wheel well liner. The job involves turning the steering wheel, removing a few clips and screws, pulling the liner back for access, and swapping the pump.
🎬 Watch: Full walkthrough for replacing the entire washer reservoir.My rear washer doesn't work, but the front does. Is it the pump?
It could be. Since a single pump controls both, a failure in the pump's reversing function could be the cause. However, it's also very common for the hose leading to the rear to become disconnected or clogged. A common point of failure is a connection inside the vehicle or where the hose passes into the liftgate.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: CJ5Z-17664-A JL1Z-17664-A BB5Z-17664-A 7L2Z-17664-A
Single motor pump assembly with dual outlets for front and rear washer systems. Mounts to the washer fluid reservoir with a rubber grommet.
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.
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