Hello, I recently purchased a used (45k miles) 2004 Audi a4 1.8T. Since I've gotten the car, I've noticed the washer fluid seems to run out relatively quickly. Probably it runs out after say, 10 or so bursts (quick pulls on the right-side lever), or about 3-4 weeks.

My question: is this normal? Or is this an unusually short time between refills?

My old car was a chevy malibu, and I almost never replaced the washer fluid the entire time I had the car. So I'm not sure if there's something wrong with the audi, or if it just tends to use the fluid more quickly.

Thanks in advance....

 

same thing happens to me. i think the issue is that one of the washer pumps is broken and is leaking fluid out. do you headlamp washers work? if they dont then its a definite sign.

 

Everything works fine as far as I can see, including the headlamp washers. If a pump is broken, it's confusing, because it doesn't seem to leak fluid or anything, because I've used the washer fluid lever several weeks after refilling the fluid, and it still works. It's just that it doesn't last for more than say, 10 bursts.

Everyone who reads this message: please post your average time between washer fluid refills...

 

A couple months, usually. Something's definitely wrong with yours.

When you refill it, how much does it take? When mine's on empty, it'll take a full gallon to refill it.

 

Mine goes away pretty fast too. I think that's because it washes headlights also... So a lot of the fluid comes out at the same time.

 

headlight washers only come on above a certain speed dont they? or mine dont work maybe... i go a few months at a time...

 

It's funny y'all bring that up ... I noticed mine was low yesterday when I just filled it up not too long ago ... oh well, who knows

It may be because it doubles as the turn signal fluid too (LOL)

 

Headlight washers will eat thru your washer fluid. So if you're using them a lot... I used to use them all the time until I had to refil my fluid for the first time or two... then I quickly got over it. Now the only time the headlights get blasted is when I need to use the windshiled washers at night...
Also, headlight washers only come on when your headlamps are on.

 

my washer fluid is leaking, too.

Everytime I filled up, it will be all gone within 5 days.

I can see the leaks underneath the engine.

Not sure where it leaks from....

so u guys mean if both my front headlight washers work, it means itz not the leak source?

so I focus on the water pump?

 

The headlamp washer assemblies are notorious for deterioration which will cause the fluid to run dry very quickly. I have replaced both of mine, 1 at 38,000 miles and the other at 40,000. To check I would fill up your fluid tank, turn on the car, turn on your lights and have someone actuate the washers. See if the heads pop up. If they don't look under the bumper to locate the area of the leak. The tank is in the left front wheel well. If you are leaking heavily by the front left wheel it might be a hose or connector.

I personally found replacing these headlamp washers a complete pain in the ****. If you decidetoreplace them do yourself a favor and get a diagram of how to remove the front bumper. Complete jigsaw puzzle. I have access to these diagrams if you need them.

Scott