Chrysler Spirit Windshield Washer Pump Replacement Guide (1990-1995)
Everything you need to know about diagnosing and replacing the windshield washer pump on your 1990-1995 Chrysler Spirit.
- Failure is typically due to age; symptoms include no sound, sound but no spray, or a weak spray.
- An aftermarket pump from a brand like Trico is the most practical and cost-effective replacement.
- This is a DIY-friendly repair that can usually be completed in under an hour with basic tools.
- No recalls or TSBs are on record for this specific part, so failure is considered normal wear.
Is Your Windshield Washer Pump Failing?
When the washer pump on a 1990-1995 Chrysler Spirit begins to fail, the signs are usually clear. Because this is a simple part, troubleshooting is straightforward. Look for these common symptoms:
- No Sound, No Fluid: You activate the washer switch and hear nothing. This usually points to a dead pump motor or an electrical issue, like a blown fuse.
- Pump Whirs, But No Fluid Sprays: If you can hear the pump motor humming but no fluid comes out, the motor might be working but the internal pump mechanism (impeller) could be broken. This can also be caused by completely empty fluid reservoir, or clogged washer nozzles or lines.
- Weak or Uneven Spray: The fluid barely reaches the windshield or just dribbles out. This indicates the pump is getting weak and can no longer create enough pressure for a proper spray.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Pump
For a vehicle like the 1990-1995 Chrysler Spirit, finding a new original equipment (OEM) washer pump from Chrysler is highly unlikely. Even if you found a New Old Stock (NOS) part, the cost would be very high. The most practical and affordable solution is a new aftermarket pump.
Aftermarket brands like Trico offer direct-fit replacement pumps designed for easy installation. These parts are engineered to match original specifications, so you don't need to worry about drilling holes or modifying connections. For a straightforward component like a washer pump on an older vehicle, a quality aftermarket part provides reliable performance and excellent value.
Estimated Replacement Costs
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Pump | $29.34 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $95 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $80 - $125 |
DIY Replacement Guide
Replacing the washer pump on your Spirit is a job most DIY mechanics can handle in under an hour with basic tools. The pump is a simple press-fit into the washer fluid reservoir.
- Locate the Reservoir: The washer fluid reservoir is typically located in the engine bay, often behind the passenger-side headlight. Access to the pump at the bottom may require turning the front wheels or removing the passenger-side front wheel and inner fender liner/splash shield.
- Drain the Fluid: Have a bucket ready. You can either siphon the fluid from the top or simply disconnect the pump and let the fluid drain out.
- Disconnect the Pump: Unplug the single electrical connector. Then, carefully pull the fluid hose(s) off the pump nozzles.
- Remove the Old Pump: The pump is held in place by a rubber grommet. Simply wiggle and pull the old pump straight out of the reservoir. The old grommet may come out with it or stay in the tank; make sure to remove it.
- Install the New Pump: Clean the area around the hole in the reservoir. Insert the new rubber grommet that comes with your new pump, then firmly press the new pump into the grommet until it's seated. Reconnect the hose(s) and the electrical plug.
- Test the System: Refill the reservoir with a small amount of washer fluid and check for leaks around the new pump. Turn the ignition on and test the washer function. If it works, top off the fluid and reinstall the fender liner and wheel if you removed them.
Pro Tip: Before you install the new pump, take a moment to clean the washer fluid nozzles on the hood. Use a small pin or needle to clear out any dirt or old wax that could be causing a blockage.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Bulletins
Searches for official recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA and Chrysler show no specific, widespread issues for the windshield washer pump on the 1990-1995 Chrysler Spirit. Failures on a vehicle of this age are almost always due to normal wear and tear of the electric motor and plastic components over decades of use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I hear the pump motor, but no fluid sprays out. Is the pump definitely bad?
Not necessarily. First, make sure the washer fluid reservoir isn't empty. If it's full, the next step is to check for blockages. Use a small pin to clean the nozzles on the hood. If that doesn't work, disconnect the hose from the pump to see if fluid comes out there. If it does, the blockage is in the lines or nozzles. If no fluid comes out of the pump itself, then the pump's internal impeller has likely failed and the pump needs to be replaced.
I don't hear any sound when I try to use the washer. What should I check first?
If you hear no sound at all, the problem is likely electrical. The first thing to check is the fuse for the washer system in your vehicle's fuse box. If the fuse is good, the pump motor itself has likely failed. You can confirm this by using a multimeter to see if 12-volt power is reaching the pump's electrical connector when the switch is activated.
Is it safe to use any type of washer fluid?
It's best to avoid mixing different types of washer fluid, as this can sometimes cause a gel-like substance to form that clogs the system. In winter, always use a fluid rated for freezing temperatures to prevent the fluid from freezing and potentially cracking the reservoir, lines, or the pump itself.
How difficult is it to replace the washer pump myself?
For most people with basic hand tools, this is an easy repair. The main challenge is simply accessing the pump, which may require removing the wheel and a plastic splash shield. The pump itself is not held in by bolts, but by a simple friction fit, making the swap quick.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chrysler Spirit: