electrical

Washer Reservoir

for 2012 Jeep Wrangler 3.6L V6 · 4WD
Editorial review:Chris HacklemanMaster Technician · 20+ years · Jeff MooreMaster Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years
Difficulty
Easy
Time
48 min
Tools
5
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 fluid reservoir on a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK with the 3.6L V6 engine.

Warnings

ℹ️The washer reservoir is located in the left front fender area behind the inner fender liner.
Do not attempt to remove the reservoir with washer fluid still inside - it will spill throughout the fender well.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Trim panel removal tool or flathead screwdriver
PliersEssential
Drain pan or bucketEssential
Torque wrenchEssential

Parts

  • Windshield washer reservoir × 1 — Mopar 68079532AA or equivalent
  • Washer pump grommet (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

  • Windshield Washer Fluid — 3.5 qt

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
  2. Turn ignition off and remove key
  3. Allow engine to cool if recently operated
  4. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent accidental washer pump activation

Procedure

  1. 1
    Disconnect battery negative terminal
    Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery post and secure it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  2. 2
    Remove left front wheel
    Loosen the left front wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground. Raise the front of the vehicle using a jack and support with jack stands. Remove the wheel completely and set aside.
  3. 3
    Remove inner fender liner fasteners
    Locate the plastic push-pin fasteners and screws securing the inner fender liner. Remove the fasteners in the front section of the liner to gain access to the washer reservoir. You do not need to remove the entire liner - only fold back the front portion approximately 12 inches.
  4. 4
    Drain washer fluid
    Place a drain pan underneath the reservoir area. Disconnect the washer hose from the pump by squeezing the retaining tabs and pulling the hose off. Allow all fluid to drain into the pan. Alternatively, use a fluid transfer pump to remove fluid through the filler neck before disconnecting hoses.
  5. 5
    Disconnect electrical connector
    Locate the electrical connector on the washer pump at the bottom of the reservoir. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight off the pump. Note the connector orientation for reinstallation.
  6. 6
    Disconnect washer hoses
    Disconnect the main washer supply hose from the pump outlet. On models equipped with headlight washers, disconnect the secondary hose as well. Use pliers to compress hose clamps if present and slide them back before removing hoses.
  7. 7
    Remove reservoir mounting bolts
    Using a 10mm socket, remove the two or three bolts securing the reservoir to the fender and inner structure. Support the reservoir with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
    Torque spec
    Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
  8. 8
    Remove reservoir from vehicle
    Carefully maneuver the reservoir out through the fender well opening. It may be necessary to rotate or tilt the reservoir to clear the fender structures. Remove the pump from the old reservoir if reusing by twisting counterclockwise and pulling out of the grommet.
  9. 9
    Install pump in new reservoir
    If reusing the washer pump, inspect the rubber grommet for cracks or damage and replace if necessary. Lubricate the pump seal and grommet with soapy water. Insert the pump into the new reservoir opening and twist clockwise until it locks into position. Ensure the pump is fully seated and the grommet seals properly.
  10. 10
    Install new reservoir
    Position the new reservoir into the fender well, routing it past any obstructions. Align the mounting holes with the frame brackets. Install the mounting bolts and torque to specification.
    Torque spec
    Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
  11. 11
    Reconnect hoses and electrical
    Reconnect the washer supply hose(s) to the pump outlet, ensuring they are fully seated and clamps are properly positioned. Connect the electrical connector to the pump until it clicks into place. Verify the connection is secure by gently pulling on the connector.
  12. 12
    Reinstall fender liner
    Fold the inner fender liner back into position and reinstall all push-pin fasteners and screws. Ensure the liner is properly seated and not interfering with any moving components.
  13. 13
    Reinstall wheel and reconnect battery
    Reinstall the left front wheel and hand-tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle and torque lug nuts to specification (typically 100 lb-ft for JK Wranglers). Reconnect the battery negative terminal and torque to specification.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

  1. Torque all fasteners to specified values in the order listed
  2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
  3. Verify washer hoses are routed properly and not kinked or pinched

Verification

  • Fill washer reservoir with approximately 3.5 quarts of windshield washer fluid
  • Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine
  • Activate windshield washer and verify fluid sprays properly from nozzles
  • Check for leaks around pump connections and hose fittings while system is operating
  • Verify no leaks from reservoir body or mounting area
  • Test both intermittent and continuous washer operation to confirm pump function
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