How to prime 3rd gen windshield spray jet pump?

My windshield washer spray jets are weak to non-existent. The tank ran dry and it has been suggested that the pump needs to be primed. Does this make sense, and does anyone know how to do it? Filling the tank did not correct the weak spray.

By the way, the truck was serviced at a Toyota dealer at 50,000 miles and they told me they filled the tank. They didn't and it ran dry. Other issues with service some other day. No way I'm taking it back to them or using them again.

 

Pretty sure those pumps are self priming. You probably either have a bad pump or more likely your jet nozzles are clogged.

 

Never seen a pump on any marquee that needed priming.

Have you cleaned the goop out of your nozzles that often builds up from wax and whatnot?

Do you open your hood to check on the general condition of things on a regular basis? Add the reservoir to your check list.

 

Clean out the nozzles. Washer pumps don't need primed.

 

A little needle to clean the nozzles works well. Also look in the tank and make sure nothing is clogging the intake. I had this happen before and the intake was clogged with crud.

 

Yep nozzles. And apparently the juice u use matters. Some will get goopy with time and clog shit up.

 

Are the hoses connected from the pump to the nozzles???

 

Use an old toothbrush and clean those nozzles.

 

Thanks for all the suggestions. I cleaned the nozzles several times before I posted this. Whirring noise from pump sounds just like it did when things worked. I'll check for a clogged intake from the tank. I fill the tank regularly between services (and check the oil, etc. Hasn't used a drop. Been following this forum for years, hence etc. between maintenances) Given the way the tank is bottled up, I never thought about the tank intake. When I get the time, I'll check it out. It's really humid in southwest Ohio, with highs today in the mid 90's and a heat index of over 100. I find that to be non-inspirational for elective outdoor work.

 

The Windshield Washer Empty light stays on regardless of how full it is on my Forester.

Apparently some of these fluids will damage the sensor and the dealer wants $600 to fix it.
I'd replace it or just yank the stupid sensor but you gotta take the $(*$*##$*$ front bumper off. Duh.

So when refilling I'm gonna use OEM stuff. So many fluids out there you can buy at WallyWorld who knows
what additives are in them, good-bad-or-ugly.

 

Your Tacoma doesn’t have a sensor, unless you're in Canada. No worries there.

 

I use the Tip Cleaner from Welder to clear clogged nozzles. They come in different sizes and are serrated so they are great at getting rid of any gunk.

 

My 2002 Tacoma has a sensor, and I'm not in Canada, nor has my truck ever been...

 

Fill it with water and let it rip; windshield washer fluid is a sham

 

Says the guy who lives in sunny San Diego! Try that stunt up in Montana this time of year and see how well "it rips".

 

The title is important here

 

Oh, it’ll rip the bottle and hoses when the San Diego water freezes!

 

Man y’all are some herbs! Sucks to suck it was 81 in San Diego and the rest of the country has frost bite. Put some anti freeze in your windshield washer fluid, or buy a quality ice scrape brush. Honestly I don’t feel bad at all!

 

Do Not Do That!

 

Lol 3rd gen man. You have a 2nd gen.