I have a 1999 1.6 Renault Clio and for some reason the washer has just stopped working. I've tried poking the jets with a pin to no avail. There isn't even a dribble coming out. I've no idea how to get to the bottle because there's a plastic shelf type thing in the way that the window wipers are attached to and I can't see how to get one of them off.

I've read a few people say to make sure the pump is working: when I pull the washer lever, a whining noise is heard, like a motor whirring.

I've also read a few people say to put some vinegar/de-scaler/Cilit Bang in the water bottle, but if the water level isn't going down, how will that help?

I really appreciate any help as my MOT is due in a couple of weeks and this is an instant fail!

Kayleigh, April 2014

there is sometimes a small filter at the pump which can get blocked,if you are hearing the pump work then all it may need is cleared with an airline and it can sometimes help to remove the washer jets completely to get them blown out,a decent garage would do this for you,a 5 min job

cdc, April 2014