E38 screen washer problem

[gf15]

Hi,
I hope someone can help. E38 740i (1999). Washers used to work fine. but, that changed mid journey last week.
When I activate the screen washer, I only get a drizzle from the screen nozzles, but I get massive amounts out through the headlamp washers. As the headlamp washers only work when the headlights are on, and then only every 3rd time (I think), is there some sort of splitter / valve / widget that controls this?
What is the problem likely to be?
Any advice would be very welcome!

[blackspider]

You will probabely need to remove the washer pump and clean the plastic filter/gauze.Its more than likely to be blocked.Bottle is in under the inner wheel arch liner o/s
If not then we do get the jets failing internally-theres a spring that slips-especially when it has frozen-the water pressure is too great if the nozzle freezes and it falls apart.

[gf15]

Thanks for the response, the liner is a pain to get off, but needs must, I will let you know if that cures the problem.
Cheers

edited to add, I will check the jets first!

Edited by gf15 on Thursday 1st February 14:05

[gf15]

Blackspider,

Perfect diagnosis, I had what looked like a piece if plastic swarf stuck in the bottom of the pickup for the washer motor. All fixed and I can once again see where I am going. Took less than an hour from start to finish.
Thank you for your assistance.

[ccfj1]

blackspider strikes again, my e46 was the same, just took the bottle out and washed the filter, job done.

[peaktorque]

Something else to bear in mind. I had no water to washer jets at all on my E39, just water spraying the engine bay! The pipe that feeds the nearside jet became brittle (as it sits above the engine) thus water exiting split pipe underneath sound proofing. Fixed now with new pipe.