Wiper fluid leaking?

[fhturner]

I'm getting a "Low Wiper Fluid" message constantly in the DIC. However, I filled the reservoir shortly after I got the Vette, just about 2 weeks ago, and have hardly used it much at all since then. Looking inside the reservoir doesn't show much (it's so hard to see down in there!), but the level is definitely, noticeably down since when I filled it. Also, the fluid does not spray from the right wiper assembly when I press the button (the driver's side works fine).

Could these two things, the quick drainage of the fluid and the fact that it doesn't spray on the right, have a common cause? I was thinking the little hose might be disconnected somewhere, causing the fluid to drain out rapidly from there. Only problem is, I can't really tell where the hose for that side runs. Any suggestions or things to look for?

Thanks a bunch!
Fred

 

[fhturner]

Okay, went out and discovered the source of the problem. I followed the hose back from the right wiper, and discovered that it was not connected to anything! Next, I found a Y-splitter nearly at the side of the hood opening, at the base of the windshield. This was still connected to the tubing running back to the wiper fluid reservoir (on the single connector end) and the left wiper's tubing (on one of the dual connectors). However, the mere act of trying to gently maneuver this tubing/splitter to where I could look at it caused the tubes that were still connected to break-- right at the edge of the splitter's collars.

So, obviously the tubing had gotten brittle just inside the openings of the splitter. And, also obviously, this must be where all my wiper fluid is going. I'm guessing that it has been sloshing around (especially rearward on acceleration) and spilling out of the open part of the "Y".

Now, what do I need to do to fix this? Will I need all new tubing? Will I need a new Y adapter, or will scraping the broken ends of tubing from it be enough to make it reusable? Is this something I can do myself (I'm no mechanic, but this seems simple), or should the dealer take care of it?

Thanks,
Fred

 

[fhturner]

Just trying again here... I've taken a preliminary look at the service manual, and don't see any mention of re-doing the wiper hoses-- mostly wiper motor stuff.

Has anyone had to do this before? Is there some reference I can consult? Will I need to glue the hoses into the "Y" splitter? Can I get the hoses and splitter at a standard auto parts store, or will these be GM-specific parts?

Thanks to anyone who can provide some insight here (as now I've resorted to verbally arguing with the readout when it tells me "Low Wiper Fluid"!)!

Fred

 

[yellow_2002_germany]

I would suggest taking the hose and the splitter to a car parts place and looking on the shelf for replacements. Most all cars need small tubes and t-connectors and most car places I have seen carry a variety of each.