[wsd4]

Hi there. First time posting. I'm having an issue with my wife's 2008 328i convertible. I just topped off the wiper fluid, after she told me that it had been low for a while. Turns out, the fluid just wasn't working. the wipers move, but there is no sound as if the pump is even trying to work. I've looked around on some other threads and seen the issues about replacing the pump, cleaning the filter, etc. but i think i've potentially found the problem its just a little confusing.

I've attached images of the fuse diagram (from the back of the cover for the compartment in the glove box). It looks like everything related to the washer fluid is connected to fuse 48. However when i look in the fuse box, that slot appears to be empty. I have no idea why that fuse would have been removed, so i would appreciate some advice if i am misreading the diagram.

Should i just get a 30 amp fuse that should be in that spot and try pluging it in? will it hurt anything if that slot is supposed to be empty? I dont have a lot of DIY mechanic experience, so if it wont hurt id rather try just pluggin in the fuse than messing with the pump.

Thanks!

[e90yyc]

Welcome!

Great post. Thanks for including pictures and lots of detail.

The short answer is: if you're missing the fuse, then there should be no issue with putting one in.

If you had blown a 30A fuse for an important circuit and found yourself stranded and without extra fuses, it would make sense to pull one from a non-essential circuit in order to get you home. But since I'm guessing neither you or your wife did this, it is a bit puzzling as to how it went missing...

Given the washer fluid pump fuse and wiper fuses are separate, what you describe makes sense (wipers working; pump not working).

[pearlander]

@wsd4 did you solve the issue? I have the exact same situation and pictures you posted! Wipers work, washer reservoir is full, but no spray. And the mysterious missing fuse #48! I cleaned the filter, so guessing need to replace the pump.

Anyone now how to if test windshield washer pump is working? Thanks!

[wsd4]

Unfortunately, I was not able to fix the problem by plugging in the fuse. I tried using a newly purchased fuse, as well as swapping that with one that was already installed, so i'm not sure why it didn't change. I haven't been able to work on it much recently. Let me know if you figure yours out.

[djbobbless]

If your wipers work but spray function does not that is leading towards a dead windshield pump. I also do not have a fuse ironically in that spot so I knew it was a dead windshield pump. Replaced it and everything is working again! While you're there replace the grommet strainer filter as the build up can be a leading cause to a clogged / broken pump.

[bcoz]

wsd4, Thanks for including the pictures.

For anyone else reading this, there are 5 SPARE fuses included in the fuse box.
For details, refer to picture #4. Note the spare fuses at the very top of the panel (5, 7.5, 10, 30 and 40 amp).