Buy Acura ILX Windshield Washer Pumps

The windshield washer pump-sometimes called a washer motor, squirter pump, or sprayer pump-pushes washer fluid from the reservoir to the nozzles so you can keep the glass clear on every Acura ILX from model-year 2013 through 2022. It runs on the car's 12-volt system and most pumps of this type flow roughly 250-1 900 mL of fluid per minute while drawing 3-5 amps at full load. (spudart.org, Renault Forums) Because good visibility is a key safety requirement, U.S. rules treat the washer system as part of the federally regulated windshield-wiper system. (NHTSA)

A small electric impeller inside the pump pressurizes the fluid each time you pull the wiper stalk. (YouTube) The Acura owner's guide explains that the pump runs only while you hold the lever, and the wipers automatically sweep two or three extra times to clear any leftover fluid. (Acura Owners) Keeping the nozzles clean and the pump working prevents streaks, glare, and frozen slush from blocking your sight line, which the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration lists as a critical safety factor. (NHTSA)

• No Spray at All - You hear no motor sound and see no fluid; often the 15-amp "WASHER" fuse, a bad ground, or a seized pump is to blame. (Fuse Box, Acurazine)
• Weak or Intermittent Spray - A failing pump can "pulse" as it loses pressure or clogs with debris. (Arduino Forum)
• Pump Runs but Nothing Comes Out - Check for frozen fluid, split hoses, or clogged nozzles; Acura owners on ClubRSX noted blockage where hoses meet the hood. (ClubRSX)
• Blown Fuse - Excess current draw above about 5 amps indicates internal wear or an electrical short. (Renault Forums)

Every first-generation ILX shares the same front washer pump design, mounted low on the plastic reservoir just inside the right-front fender liner. (CarCareKiosk, CarCareKiosk) Because the pump is keyed by grommet size and electrical plug style, it interchanges across 2.0-L and 2.4-L trims without special programming. (Acura Owners)

1. Unhook the Battery to avoid a short.
2. Remove the Fender Liner Clips behind the passenger wheel for easy access. (Acurazine)
3. Pull the Old Pump Straight Out of its rubber grommet; expect fluid to drain. (YouTube)
4. Swap the Strainer and Grommet if worn, then press the new pump in until it seats.
5. Reconnect the Harness, refill with washer fluid, and test.

A first-timer with basic tools usually finishes in under 30 minutes.

• Use Season-Correct Fluid - Winter blends stay liquid below -20 °F, preventing the pump from freezing and cracking. (The US Sun, Real Simple)
• Top Off Regularly - Low fluid lets air enter the pump, shortening its life. (CarCareKiosk)
• Clean Nozzles Twice a Year with a pin or compressed air to keep pressure strong. (YouTube)
• Inspect Fuse #20 (15 A) in the interior fuse box if the system quits suddenly. (Fuse Box, YouTube)

Most washer fluids rely on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like methanol; states such as Texas limit VOC content to cut smog, so choose a fluid that meets local rules. (US EPA) Discard empty jugs at a recycling center and never mix household soaps, which can clog the pump. (, Model Engineer)

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 104 covers wipers and washers, requiring that the pump deliver fluid at highway speeds and in freezing conditions. (NHTSA) A working washer system is also a common state inspection item, so a failed pump can cause a rejected sticker.

The pump works with the reservoir, low-level switch (on some trims), rubber grommet, hoses, inline check valves, spray nozzles, wiper arms, and the steering-column switch. Damage to any of these can mimic pump failure. (Acurazine, Nasioc)

Q: How do I know if my Acura ILX washer pump is bad or if it's just the fuse?
A: If you press the stalk and hear no motor sound, check Fuse #20 (15 A) first; if the fuse is good and power reaches the connector but the pump stays silent, the pump is likely faulty. (Fuse Box, YouTube)

Q: Can I drive without a working washer pump?
A: You can, but it's risky; road salt, bugs, or mud can quickly block your view, and many states can issue a citation for an inoperative washer. (NHTSA)

Q: Will a universal 12-volt pump fit?
A: Universal pumps may match voltage, but the ILX relies on a specific grommet diameter and plug shape; using the wrong style can leak or loosen over bumps. (Acura Owners)

Q: How much fluid does the ILX reservoir hold?
A: About 3 quarts (2.8 L), enough for roughly 10 minutes of continuous spray at a typical 250 mL-per-minute flow rate. (spudart.org, Renault Forums)

Q: Why does my pump buzz but spray is weak?
A: Partial clogging, cracked hoses, low battery voltage, or an aging pump impeller can all reduce pressure while the motor still spins. (ClubRSX, Arduino Forum)

Q: Does using water instead of washer fluid hurt the pump?
A: Plain water lacks corrosion inhibitors and can freeze, cracking the pump housing and lines; always use proper fluid, especially in freezing climates. (The US Sun)

Q: How often should I replace the washer pump?
A: There's no set interval; many last well over 100 000 miles, but any sign of leakage, noise, or weak spray means it's time for a change. (YouTube, Acurazine)

Q: Is it safe to add a washer-fluid heater or stronger pump?
A: Aftermarket heaters and high-flow pumps draw more current and can overload factory wiring or blow fuses; keep total draw under the 15-amp circuit limit. (Renault Forums, Nasioc)

Q: What's the easiest way to unclog the spray nozzles?
A: Warm a cup of vinegar, soak the nozzle tips for 10 minutes, then rinse and clear any debris with a sewing needle. (YouTube)

By knowing how the Acura ILX windshield washer pump works, spotting early warning signs, and following simple care tips, you can keep your windshield clear and your drive safe year-round.