How to Replace a 1998 Nissan Frontier Windshield Washer Motor

The windshield wipers and the window washer pump on your 1998 Nissan Frontier pickup are two separate parts. However, the electrical system ties the units together to ensure that the wipers operate when you activate the washer fluid pump. If you activate the washer fluid mechanism and the wiper work but your washer isn't pumping fluid, you probably have a bad washer pump. This simple electric pump is located underneath your washer fluid reservoir. Changing it should take about 15 minutes.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Socket set
1

Peel back the driver-side front fender-well protective cover by removing the bolts that hold it in place. The washer motor is attached to the bottom of the washer fluid reservoir, on the driver's side of the truck. Remove just enough bolts to be able to access the washer reservoir/pump.
2

Detach the electrical harness from the connector on the pump. Lift up the plastic tabs on the side of the wiring harness and slide it off the pump.
3

Pull the window washer fluid tube off the nozzle on the pump. There is no clamp or connector holding it in place. You can simply pull it straight off.
4

Pull the motor out of the washer fluid tank and out of its bracket by twisting it. There are no bolts or screws connecting the pump.
5

Insert the new pump into the bracket and up into the washer fluid reservoir. Make sure the rubber seal on the top of the pump is fully seated into the bottom of the reservoir to avoid leaks.
6

Place the tube over the nozzle of the new pump and twist it into place. Plug the electrical harness into the socket on the new pump, ensuring the plastic retaining tabs lock into place.
7

Replace the bolts in the fender-well protective cover. Refill the washer reservoir.

Tips & Warnings

Before blaming the pump for the problem, make sure you check all fuses associated with the wipers and pump. Check your owner's manual for the specific location of the fuses.

Another possible problem could be a clogged tube. If you activate the washer and can hear the pump operating, it's likely that the tube is stopped up and you need to replace it.