electrical
Washer Reservoir
for 2017 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote · RWD
Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1.0 h
Tools
8
Steps
11
✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the windshield washer reservoir on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8 engine.
Warnings
⚠Washer fluid may spill during removal. Have drain pan and towels ready.
ℹ️The washer reservoir is located in the driver side front fender area, accessible from under the hood.
Tools required
7mm socketEssential
10mm socketEssential
Socket wrench or ratchetEssential
PliersEssential
Drain pan or bucketEssential
Shop towelsEssential
As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Parts
- Windshield washer reservoir × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Washer pump grommet (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Fluids
- Windshield Washer Fluid — 3.5 qt
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Open hood and support with prop rod
- Place drain pan under driver side fender area to catch washer fluid
- Disconnect negative battery terminal if replacing pump with electrical connector
Procedure
- 1Remove driver side inner fender splash shield fastenersRemove the plastic fasteners securing the inner fender splash shield near the washer reservoir. You may need to turn the front wheels to the right for better access. Pull back the splash shield to expose the washer reservoir from below and behind.
- 2Disconnect washer pump electrical connectorLocate the washer pump electrical connector on the bottom of the reservoir. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the pump. If the connector is difficult to reach, you may disconnect it after lowering the reservoir slightly.
- 3Disconnect washer hose from pumpUsing pliers, squeeze the hose clamp on the outlet hose connected to the washer pump and slide it back along the hose. Pull the hose straight off the pump outlet. Be prepared for fluid to drain from the hose and reservoir. Allow fluid to drain into the drain pan.
- 4Remove reservoir mounting boltsLocate the reservoir mounting bolts securing it to the fender and inner structure. There are typically two or three 10mm bolts. Remove all mounting bolts and set aside. Support the reservoir as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
- 5Remove washer reservoir from vehicleCarefully maneuver the reservoir out through the fender well opening. Tilt and rotate as needed to clear any obstructions. Once removed, drain any remaining fluid into the drain pan. Inspect the reservoir for cracks or damage.
- 6Transfer washer pump to new reservoir (if applicable)If reusing the washer pump, carefully twist and pull it out of the old reservoir grommet. Inspect the grommet in the new reservoir for damage. Press the pump firmly into the new reservoir grommet until it seats completely. Ensure the pump is oriented correctly with the outlet facing the proper direction.
- 7Install new reservoir into vehiclePosition the new reservoir into the fender well area, routing it into place while ensuring the mounting holes align with the body. It may be helpful to connect the electrical connector and hose loosely before fully positioning the reservoir.
- 8Install reservoir mounting boltsThread in all reservoir mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Tighten the 10mm mounting bolts securely in a cross pattern. Ensure the reservoir is seated properly and does not move when pulled.
- 9Reconnect washer hose and electrical connectorPush the washer hose firmly onto the pump outlet until it bottoms out. Slide the hose clamp into position over the connection point and ensure it is secure. Connect the electrical connector to the pump until it clicks into place. Verify the locking tab is engaged.
- 10Reinstall inner fender splash shieldPosition the inner fender splash shield back into place and secure with the plastic fasteners. Ensure all fasteners are fully seated and the shield is properly aligned.
- 11Fill washer reservoir and test systemFill the washer reservoir with approximately 3.5 quarts of windshield washer fluid. Reconnect the negative battery terminal if it was disconnected. Turn the ignition to the ON position and activate the washer system. Check for leaks at the pump connection and around the reservoir. Verify fluid sprays properly onto the windshield.
Reassembly
- Ensure all electrical connections are secure and locked in place
- Verify all mounting bolts are tight and the reservoir does not move
- Confirm inner fender splash shield is properly installed to prevent road debris from entering
Verification
- Check washer fluid level is at the full mark
- Activate washer system and verify strong spray pattern on windshield
- Inspect underneath vehicle and around reservoir area for any fluid leaks
- Verify no warning lights or messages appear on the instrument cluster
- Test washer system multiple times to ensure consistent operation
Related trouble codes on this vehicle
Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.
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