Washer Reservoir

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the windshield washer fluid reservoir on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Windshield washer reservoir × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Push-pin retainers × 1 — Replace any broken clips

Fluids

• Windshield Washer Fluid — 3.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn steering wheel fully to the right for better access to driver side wheel well
3. If reservoir is full, use washer pump to spray out as much fluid as possible before removal
4. Place drain pan under work area to catch remaining washer fluid

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove driver side front wheel well liner
   Remove the push-pin retainers and screws securing the front portion of the driver side inner fender liner. You do not need to remove the entire liner, just fold back the front section enough to access the washer reservoir. Typically 4-6 push pins and 2-3 screws secure the front section.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the washer pump electrical connector on the bottom of the reservoir. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the pump motor. On some models there may be two pumps (one for windshield, one for rear window) - disconnect all pump connectors.
3. 3

   Disconnect washer hoses
   Locate the washer fluid hose(s) connected to the pump outlet(s) at the bottom of the reservoir. Squeeze the hose clamp or release clip and pull the hose straight off. Some fluid will drain from the hose and reservoir. For models with rear washer, disconnect both front and rear hoses.
4. 4

   Remove reservoir mounting fasteners
   Remove the mounting bolts securing the reservoir to the fender well. Typically there are 2-3 bolts accessible from inside the wheel well. The top bolt may require reaching up behind the reservoir. Keep track of any spacers or grommets.
5. 5

   Remove reservoir from vehicle
   Carefully maneuver the reservoir down and out through the wheel well opening. The reservoir neck extends up toward the hood area, so you may need to angle it to clear. Tilt to drain any remaining fluid into your drain pan. Inspect the old reservoir for cracks or damage to confirm replacement is needed.
6. 6

   Transfer washer pump(s) to new reservoir
   If the new reservoir does not include pump(s), transfer them from the old reservoir. The pump typically twists and pulls out from a rubber grommet in the reservoir. Clean the pump filter screen if reusing. Install pump(s) into new reservoir by pressing firmly into the grommet until seated. Ensure the grommet seals properly to prevent leaks.
7. 7

   Install new reservoir
   Position the new reservoir into the fender well, guiding the filler neck up through its opening. Align the mounting holes and install the mounting bolts finger-tight first. Verify proper positioning before fully tightening. Tighten mounting bolts securely but do not overtighten as the reservoir is plastic.
8. 8

   Reconnect hoses and electrical
   Push the washer hoses onto the pump outlet(s) until fully seated. Secure with hose clamps or clips. Reconnect the electrical connector(s) to the washer pump(s) until the locking tab clicks. Gently tug to verify secure connection.
9. 9

   Reinstall wheel well liner
   Reposition the inner fender liner and secure with all push-pin retainers and screws. Replace any damaged push pins with new ones. Ensure liner is properly seated and does not interfere with tire or suspension movement.
10. 10

    Fill and test system
    Fill the washer reservoir with approximately 3.5 quarts of windshield washer fluid appropriate for your climate. Turn ignition to ON position and test washer operation by spraying windshield and rear window (if equipped). Check for leaks at all hose connections and around pump grommets while spraying. Top off fluid level as needed.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all wheel well liner fasteners are secured to prevent flapping at highway speeds
2. Verify washer fluid filler cap is fully seated
3. Check that washer spray pattern hits windshield properly - adjust nozzles if needed

Verification

• Test washer system operation - both windshield and rear window if equipped
• Inspect for leaks at reservoir, pump connections, and hose fittings
• Verify reservoir is securely mounted with no rattles or movement
• Confirm wheel well liner is properly secured and clear of moving parts
• Check that reservoir filler neck is accessible from under hood for future refilling

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle