A heated washer fluid feature is available on a number of 2008 and earlier vehicles. To avoid unnecessary repair and replacement of components, it's important to understand how the system is designed to operate.
The heated fluid feature is controlled by a unique button (fig. 23) with a washer icon (fig. 24), not the conventional windshield washer button. The location varies, depending on model. It may be located on the instrument panel or on the multifunction lever.
To use the heated fluid feature, depress the control button, then release. The system will then perform four heated wash/wipe cycles, then shut off. If the heated fluid button is depressed a second time before the wash/wipe cycle is completed, the system is turned off.
TIP: The first wash/wipe cycle may take up to 40 seconds to occur, depending on outside temperature. Subsequent wash/wipe cycles may take up to 20 seconds to occur.
If the wash/wipe cycle does not start immediately, some owners may depress the button a second time in an attempt to prod the system to work. This will actually do the opposite. It will turn the system off, which may be misinterpreted as a malfunction.
Before attempting any repairs or replacing any components, be sure the customer understands proper operation and waits for the necessary warmup to occur.
- Thanks to Steve Love
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