Nissan Add Windshield Washer Fluid
Is your Nissan washer reservoir low on fluid? Learn how to add windshield washer fluid to any Nissan vehicle.
At a Glance
- Fits: Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Pathfinder and more
- Reservoir: Cap with the windshield spray symbol in the engine bay
- Fluid: Ready to use washer fluid; winter blend in freezing weather
- Fill level: Stop about 2 inches (5 cm) below the top of the filler neck
- Time: 5 minutes
What you will need
- Windshield Washer Fluid
- Using plain water is NOT recommended.
Procedure
- Turn the engine off, place the shifter in Park, and engage the parking brake.
- Pull the hood release under the dashboard, and you should hear the hood pop open.
- Press the hood latch and lift the hood. A small lever (yellow, black, or red) will be right below the hood. Press it to the side to release the hood.

- Secure the hood in the open position. If it doesn’t stay up on its own, a support rod should be available to keep it open.

- Locate the windshield washer fluid reservoir. The Nissan washer fluid reservoir is typically translucent and has a wiper symbol on top. If you have a rear wiper, it typically uses the same reservoir as the windshield.


- Open the washer reservoir cap. If you don’t see any windshield washer fluid, you will need to add windshield washer fluid.
- Add washer fluid until the level gets about two inches below the reservoir cap.
These instructions will help you add windshield washer fluid to Nissan models such as Quest, Sentra, Altima, Maxima, Rogue, Cube, Note, Juke, Murano, etc.
If your Nissan washer fluid is low, you will get a warning light on your dashboard.
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It is not recommended to use water as a substitute for washer fluid. Water can freeze during the winter months, which can cause damage to the system.
Symptoms
- Low Washer Fluid Warning
- Nissan Quest Add Windshield Fluid Message
Washer Not Spraying?
- Pump hums but no spray: the nozzles are probably clogged. Clear them with a pin and check the hose under the hood for a split or a loose connection.
- No sound at all: check the washer fuse first, then the pump connector at the bottom of the reservoir.
- Reservoir empties quickly: look for a cracked reservoir or a leaking pump grommet; you will often find a wet spot under the front bumper.
- Never add coolant or plain water in winter: coolant can damage paint and wiper rubber, and water can freeze and crack the reservoir or pump.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use water instead of washer fluid in my Nissan?
Not recommended. Plain water does not clean well and can freeze in winter, which can crack the reservoir or damage the pump.
Where is the windshield washer reservoir on a Nissan?
It is in the engine bay, usually toward the front corner. The cap has a windshield spray symbol on it.
How full should I fill the washer reservoir?
Fill until the level is about two inches below the top of the filler neck.
Why is my washer pump running but no fluid comes out?
The nozzles or hose are likely clogged or disconnected. Clear the nozzles and check the hose under the hood.
Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Nissan






