Headlight washer pump always on when lights on

[waybomb]

Driving home last night in the rain, so I turned the wipers on and had to use the windhield washers at some point. The lights were on, so the headlight squirters worked as well. But the headlight pump stayed on, while the windshield pump worked as it should.
Is there a relay that controls the pumps individually? Where is the relay exactly? I think the relay's contacts may be fused together on the headlight pump relay.

[speace]

There is more information about this on this site if you do a search, but I understand that if the headlight wipers don't return to the proper "parked" position the pumps will continue to run. To compound this, the early pump motors can catch fire if they are left running unattended and the reservoir runs dry. There is an improved pump module to prevent the fire, but I'm not aware of anything that fixes the parking problem.

[waybomb]

You are correct - I should have searched first! Who would have thought the headlight wiper somehow controls the pump? (answer-not me!) I'll be checking this all out tomorrow.

[jjrodger]

From memory I think you need a new wiper motor. It's not cheap (but nor is it horrendous) and it is a pig to fit. I had this problem with mine. As a short term fix you can disconnect the power supply at the headlamp washer pump, which you will find on the side of the washer fluid bottle.

[LeaUK]

This is indeed documented as an 'issue' in the WIS. I wonder if you really need a new motor or just to adjust the sensor as there must be an integrated sensor controlling the when 'parked' position.

As I haven't had an issue I'm sorry I can't comment much more as never stripped the motor down to investigate

Lea

[snowbilt]

Probably best to disconnect them. My service records show that was the suggested fix by MB.

[waybomb]

I found my right headlight wiper is broken. I can rotate the arm by hand. Something must have broke inside the wiper motor.
I'll do a search and find out how tough that job is.

[jaybro]

What car are you talking about??? If it is a R129 I may be able to help. I have taken apart the RH wiper motor and repaired it. It is P/N 129 820 04 42 it works. It is yours for the cost to ship Priority Mail $8.50

[waybomb]

Great! Just let me know how to pay you.

[jaybro]

If you have a PayPal account pay: jaybro@ameritech.net or USPS Money Order. Need your address.

[waybomb]

PM and money sent!

Thanks!

[Gilly]

There was a recall in effect for the flaming washer pump problem. Have someone do a VMI on the car and see if there are any outstanding recalls that need to be done, it would be a freebie.
Gilly

[jaybro]

Did you get it fixed??????

[waybomb]

Oh Yea! Sorry for not getting back sooner. Something is broke inside the old wiper motor. The one you graciously sent works great. I'm going to attempt to repair my old one so I can do the same for the next person with a wiper motor problem!

Thanks John!

Fred