electrical
Washer Reservoir
for 2021 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 · AWD
Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years
Difficulty
Easy
Time
48 min
Tools
6
Steps
13
✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 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 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with 2.5L I4 AWD engine.
Warnings
⚠Do not attempt to drain washer fluid into coolant or other automotive fluid containers - use dedicated containers only
ℹ️Washer reservoir is located in the left front fender area behind the wheel well liner
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Extension setEssential
Flathead screwdriver or trim toolEssential
Drain pan or bucketEssential
Torque wrench
Work light or flashlight
Parts
- Washer reservoir assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Washer pump (if faulty) × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Push pin clips (if broken) × 3 — Standard Hyundai interior clips
Fluids
- Windshield Washer Fluid — 3.5 qt
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
- Turn ignition off and remove key
- Allow engine to cool if recently driven
- Open hood and secure with prop rod
Procedure
- 1Access left front wheel wellTurn the steering wheel fully to the right to provide better access to the left front wheel well liner. This will expose the plastic fender liner that covers the washer reservoir.
- 2Remove wheel well liner clipsLocate and remove the push pin clips securing the front portion of the left wheel well liner. There are typically 3-4 clips along the front edge. Use a flathead screwdriver or trim tool to pry out the center pins, then remove the entire clip. Fold back the liner to expose the washer reservoir.
- 3Drain washer fluidPosition a drain pan or bucket beneath the washer reservoir. Disconnect the washer hose from the bottom of the reservoir by squeezing the clip and pulling the hose away. Allow all fluid to drain into the container. You may need to disconnect the electrical connector from the washer pump to fully drain the system.
- 4Disconnect electrical connectorLocate the electrical connector on the washer pump mounted to the bottom of the reservoir. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the pump. Ensure the connector does not fall into the wheel well.
- 5Disconnect washer hosesDisconnect the outlet hose from the washer pump by squeezing the retaining clip and pulling the hose off. Note the routing of the hose for reinstallation. If the hose is brittle or cracked, plan to replace it.
- 6Remove reservoir mounting fastenersLocate the two 10mm mounting bolts securing the washer reservoir to the body. One bolt is typically at the top of the reservoir and one at the bottom. Remove both bolts completely using a 10mm socket with extension.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 7Remove washer reservoirCarefully lift and maneuver the washer reservoir out through the wheel well opening. The reservoir may need to be tilted and rotated to clear the fender structure. Take care not to damage the fender liner or painted surfaces.
- 8Transfer washer pump if reusingIf the reservoir is being replaced but the pump is good, remove the washer pump from the old reservoir by twisting counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn and pulling out. Install the pump into the new reservoir by aligning the tabs and twisting clockwise until it locks into place. Ensure the rubber grommet seal is properly seated.
- 9Install new reservoirPosition the new or cleaned reservoir into the mounting location through the wheel well opening. Align the mounting holes with the body mounting points. Thread in both mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment.
- 10Torque mounting boltsTighten both reservoir mounting bolts to 27.0 Nm (20 lb-ft). Start with the upper bolt, then the lower bolt. Verify the reservoir is secure and does not move when pulled.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 11Reconnect hoses and electricalConnect the outlet hose to the washer pump until it clicks into place. Verify the hose is fully seated by pulling gently on it. Connect the electrical connector to the pump until it clicks, ensuring the locking tab engages.
- 12Reinstall wheel well linerFold the wheel well liner back into position. Reinstall all push pin clips by inserting the clip body first, then pressing the center pin until it is flush with the clip body. Ensure the liner is properly seated and secure.
- 13Fill washer reservoirFill the washer reservoir with approximately 3.5 quarts of windshield washer fluid through the filler neck under the hood. Do not overfill. Stop when fluid reaches the bottom of the filler neck.
Reassembly
- Ensure all hose connections are secure and not leaking
- Verify wheel well liner is properly secured with all clips installed
- Return steering wheel to center position
Verification
- Turn ignition to ON position without starting the engine
- Activate the windshield washer function and verify fluid sprays properly from both nozzles
- Check for leaks around all hose connections and at the reservoir mounting area
- Inspect under the vehicle and in the wheel well for any dripping fluid
- Verify washer pump operates quietly without unusual noises
- Close hood and test washer operation once more from the driver's seat