HI, 2001 Volvo s40. Sprayer doesn't work. When I pull lever, windshield wipers go, no fluid comes out. Reservoir is full. So if there was leak in hose, reservoir would be emptying out, which it doesn't. I am in Chicago, very cold winter. Thinking either need a new washer sprayer pump/motor, or is it possible something is frozen blocking the fluid? Trouble with latter is I would think from the engine heating up and today, it is finally in the 20's that it would unfreeze. Anybody have thoughts, and how difficult is it to replace the motor? Where can I get one? Is my analysis right? Thanks.

 

Open the hood and check the hoses. Many times the plastic connections on the hoses to the sprayers break or disconnect. It's a very easy fix if that's the case -- and cheap, too! If those are ok, make the sure the holes on the sprayers are clear. Also, keep the hood open, stand outside the driver's door and turn the sprayers on. You should hear the sprayer morning give a faint "whine" if it's working ok.

 

While you have the hood open, have someone operate the washer. you might see a flood of water come out of the t connector under the driverside washer nozzle. Seems to be a common problem.
I paid $11 at the dealer for the part. If you have other parts to order, online places are usually 1/2 the price.Volvo V50 Windshield Washer T - Valve | Voluparts Online Store

While you're at it, get a fuel filler cap o-ring. Mine was as hard as plastic, probably not doing a good job of sealing. Cheap insurace.

 

It is very possible it's frozen if your fluid is mostly water.

But, check the easy stuff first. Have you checked the fuses? Do you have a multimeter so you can check whether it's getting electricity to the pump? Do you have a neighbor's garage to maybe let it warm up for a day or two?

 

Thanks for all the suggestions. This morning, for the first time in weeks, it warmed up to about 30. I was about to check to see if I heard the motor whirring or if after repeated attempts, there was signs of leakage. I pulled the lever, and not only did it whir, but fluid sprayed out just like it is supposed to. So my assumption is somehow something got frozen in there and it melted or dislodged. So thanks for everyone's suggestions, but looks like the cheapest and easiest fix of all.