electrical
Washer Reservoir
for 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L I4 · FWD
Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years
Difficulty
Easy
Time
48 min
Tools
6
Steps
10
✓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.
Remove and replace the windshield washer fluid reservoir, including disconnecting the pump and fluid hoses.
Warnings
ℹ️The reservoir is located in the left front of the engine compartment behind the headlight assembly.
⚠Washer fluid will spill during removal. Have a drain pan ready and work in a well-ventilated area.
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Flathead screwdriver
Panel removal tool
Drain pan or bucketEssential
Shop towelsEssential
Pliers
Parts
- Washer reservoir × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Washer pump grommet (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
Fluids
- Windshield Washer Fluid — 3.5 qt
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Turn ignition off and remove key
- Allow engine to cool if recently operated
- Gather drain pan and shop towels for fluid spillage
Procedure
- 1Access the washer reservoirOpen the hood and locate the washer reservoir on the driver's side of the engine compartment, positioned behind the headlight assembly. The reservoir is a translucent white or blue plastic tank.
- 2Drain the washer fluidPlace a drain pan beneath the reservoir area. Disconnect the main washer hose from the bottom of the reservoir by squeezing the retaining clip and pulling the hose off. Allow all fluid to drain into the pan. If the hose is difficult to access, you may need to partially remove it from the pump after Step 3.
- 3Disconnect the washer pump electrical connectorLocate the electrical connector on the washer pump at the bottom of the reservoir. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the pump terminals. Set the connector aside to prevent it from contacting any wet surfaces.
- 4Disconnect washer hosesDisconnect the washer fluid hose(s) from the pump. There is typically one main hose running to the hood nozzles. Squeeze any retaining clips and pull the hoses off the pump outlet. Note the routing for reinstallation.
- 5Remove reservoir mounting fastenersRemove the reservoir mounting bolts (typically 1-2 bolts at the top or side of the reservoir) using a 10mm socket. On some variants, the reservoir may also have a lower mounting tab that slides into a bracket. Note the positions of any spacers or grommets.
- 6Remove the washer reservoirCarefully lift the reservoir up and out of the engine compartment. You may need to tilt or angle it to clear surrounding components. Be prepared for residual fluid to spill. Remove the washer pump from the old reservoir by twisting it counterclockwise and pulling it out of the grommet if reusing the pump.
- 7Install washer pump in new reservoirIf reusing the original pump, inspect the rubber grommet for cracks or damage and replace if necessary. Push the pump firmly into the new reservoir opening with a twisting clockwise motion until it seats completely in the grommet. Ensure it is secure and sealed.
- 8Install the new reservoirPosition the new reservoir into the mounting location, ensuring any lower tabs engage their brackets. Align the mounting holes and install the mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts snugly but do not overtighten the plastic reservoir (hand-tight plus 1/4 turn is typical for plastic components).
- 9Reconnect hoses and electrical connectorReconnect the washer fluid hose(s) to the pump outlet(s), ensuring the retaining clips fully engage. Reconnect the electrical connector to the pump, listening for a positive click. Verify all connections are secure.
- 10Fill and test the systemFill the reservoir with approximately 3.5 quarts of windshield washer fluid. Activate the washer system from inside the vehicle and check for proper spray pattern at the windshield. Inspect all connections for leaks while the pump is running. Top off fluid as needed.
Reassembly
- Ensure all hose connections are secure and clips are fully engaged
- Verify electrical connector is properly seated on pump
- Check that reservoir is firmly mounted and does not move when pushed
- Wipe up any spilled washer fluid from engine compartment surfaces
Verification
- Activate washer system and confirm fluid sprays properly on windshield
- Check for leaks at all hose connections and pump grommet while pump is running
- Verify reservoir is securely mounted with no excessive movement
- Confirm fluid level is visible in reservoir and at proper fill level