Materials and Tools:
- Replacement Windscreen Washer Pump
- Car Jack and Jack Stands
- Ratchet with a socket set
- Flathead screwdriver
- Pliers
- Rags
- Safety goggles
1. Preparation:
- Ensure your car is in a safe location, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool down if necessary.
- Engage the parking brake, and if possible, chock the wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
- Raise your car using the car jack and place it securely on jack stands.
2. Locate the Windscreen Washer Pump:
- The washer pump is usually located underneath the car, near the washer fluid reservoir. In the Alfa 147, it's commonly found behind the driver's front wheel well.
3. Disconnect Battery (Optional):
- As a precaution, some guides recommend disconnecting the car's battery before beginning electrical work. This will prevent any electrical hazards during the process.
4. Remove the Underbody Panel:
- If there's an underbody panel covering the washer pump, remove it by undoing the screws or fasteners holding it in place.
5. Locate the Washer Pump Pipes:
- Once the underbody panel is removed, you should see the windscreen washer pump. Identify the pipes connected to it - usually two pipes, one for the inflow of fluid from the reservoir and one for the outflow to the washer jets.
6. Disconnect the Pipes:
- Use a pair of pliers to carefully remove the clamps securing the pipes to the washer pump. Pull the pipes off gently to avoid breaking them.
7. Remove the Electrical Connector:
- Locate the electrical connector attached to the washer pump. Press down on the lock clip and disconnect the connector by pulling it apart.
8. Remove the Washer Pump:
- With the pipes and electrical connector disconnected, you should be able to unscrew the washer pump from its mounting bolts. Use a ratchet with the appropriate socket to loosen and remove the bolts, then lift out the old washer pump.
9. Install the New Washer Pump:
- Align the new washer pump with its mounting holes and insert the mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts securely using the ratchet.
10. Reconnect the Pipes and Electrical Connector:
- Reattach the washer fluid pipes by sliding them onto the nipples and securing them with the clamps. Make sure the pipes are connected correctly - inflow to the pump and outflow to the jets.
- Reconnect the electrical connector by aligning it and pushing it back together until you hear a click.
11. Test the Washer Pump:
- Before reinstalling the underbody panel, briefly turn the ignition on without starting the engine. Engage the windshield washer switch and check if the pump is functioning correctly by listening for the sound of the pump and checking if fluid is sprayed out of the washer nozzles.
12. Reinstall the Underbody Panel:
- If the washer pump is working as expected, reinstall the underbody panel by securing it with the screws or fasteners you removed earlier.
13. Lower the Car:
- Carefully lower the car from the jack stands.
14. Test the Windscreen Washer:
- Start the engine and test the windscreen washer again by using the switch. Ensure that the washer jets are properly spraying fluid onto the windshield.
15. Clean Up:
- Clean any spilled washer fluid from the car's exterior.
16. Dispose of the Old Pump:
- Properly dispose of the old windshield washer pump according to your local regulations.
Keep in mind that this is a general guide and the specific steps may vary slightly based on the exact year and model of your Alfa 147. If you encounter any difficulties, it's always a good idea to refer to the owner's manual or consult a professional mechanic.
