<em>Nissan Sunny FB15</em> washer reservoir: location, replacement and do-it-yourself repair

Nissan Sunny FB15 — a reliable sedan, but even it has problems with the window washer system over time. One of the most vulnerable elements is the washer reservoir, which can crack, become clogged, or begin to leak. In this article we will look at where the tank is located on FB15, how to properly remove and replace it, what fluids to use, and also give tips on troubleshooting.

Feature Sunny FB15 (2010–2017) - a compact engine compartment where the washer reservoir is hidden in a non-obvious way. Many owners encounter difficulties when finding or dismantling it, especially when it comes to models with air conditioning or automatic transmission. We will describe the process in detail so that you can cope without contacting the service.

Where is the washer fluid reservoir located? Nissan Sunny FB15

Unlike many cars, where the washer reservoir is located next to the radiator, on FB15 it is hidden deeper - under left wing (in the direction of travel). The exact location depends on the configuration:

• 🔧 On versions without air conditioning The tank is visible immediately after opening the hood - it is white, with a blue cap, next to the battery.
• ❄️ By car with air conditioning the tank is shifted closer to the windshield and is partially covered by the cooling system pipes.
• 🚗 On restyled models (2014–2017), the tank may be black, which makes it difficult to find.

To accurately identify the tank, refer to washer pump - it is built into the bottom of the container and connected to the electrical wiring. Also on the tank lid there is usually a pictogram depicting a windshield and a stream of water.

Signs of a malfunctioning washer reservoir

Problems with the washer reservoir Sunny FB15 do not appear immediately, but they cannot be ignored - this can lead to pump overheating or damage to electrical wiring. Main symptoms:

• 💧 Liquid leak under the car (especially after using the washer). Most often, leaks occur due to cracks in the plastic or wear of the o-rings.
• 🔊 Rumble or grinding noise when you press the washer lever - a sign that the pump is running dry or there are foreign objects in the reservoir.
• 🚫 No fluid flowing on the glass, although the tank is full. This may be caused by clogged injectors, broken pipes or pump malfunction.
• 🔥 Burning smell from under the hood after prolonged use of the washer - a signal about overheating of the pump motor.

If you notice any of these signs, it is recommended that you have your system checked immediately. For example, on models FB15 with a mileage of more than 100,000 km, tank fittings often burst due to engine vibrations. This leads to a slow leak of fluid that is difficult to notice immediately.

⚠️ Attention! If fluid from the reservoir gets onto the timing belt or pulleys, it can cause it to slip or break. Regularly check the level of the washer fluid and the condition of the tank.

What kind of liquid should I pour into the washer reservoir? Nissan Sunny FB15

The choice of washer fluid depends on the season and operating conditions. The manufacturer recommends using special compounds marked Nissan Genuine Windshield Washer Fluid, but analogues from trusted brands are also suitable.

Liquid type	Temperature range	Recommended Brands	Features
Summer	from +5°C	Liqui Moly Scheiben-Frostschutz, Sonax, Hi-Gear	Contains detergent additives and does not freeze at above-zero temperatures
Winter (concentrate)	up to -25°C	Castrol Clear Vision, Mannol, Fenom	Diluted with water in a 1:1 ratio, leaves no streaks
Universal	-10°C to +30°C	Mobil Delvac, Total, Motul	Suitable for year-round use, but less effective in cold weather
With deicer	up to -40°C	Prestone, Peak, Recochem	Contains alcohol, quickly dissolves ice on glass

It is important to avoid using ordinary water or homemade mixtures based on alcohol or vinegar. They can:

• 🧊 Freeze in the tubes at temperatures below 0°C, which will cause the system to rupture.
• 🧴 Leave stains on the glass, worsening the view.
• 🔋 Disable the pump due to corrosion or deposits.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the washer reservoir

Replacing the tank with Nissan Sunny FB15 does not require special tools, but will require accuracy. On average, the procedure takes 30–40 minutes. You will need:

• 🔧 Set of sockets and 10 mm wrench.
• 🔨 Flat screwdriver for removing clamps.
• 🧤 Gloves (liquid in the tank can be aggressive to the skin).
• 🚿 New tank (original article number - 28514-BM40A, analogues - Febi 28514 or Hella 8EL 355 139-641).

Sequence of actions:

1. Drain the liquid from the tank through a hose or disconnect the lower pipe by replacing the container.
2. Turn off power to the pumpby removing the battery terminal (negative).
3. Disconnect the electrical connector from the pump (press the lock and pull up).
4. Remove the hoses from the tank, loosening the clamps with a screwdriver. Be careful - plastic fittings are fragile!
5. Unscrew the tank fasteners (usually 2-3 bolts per 10 mm).
6. Carefully remove the tankby pulling it up and slightly to the right (it may be necessary to move the air conditioner pipes).
7. Install a new tank in reverse order, making sure all seals are in place.

After installation, fill in the fluid and check the system for leaks. To do this, press the washer lever several times and inspect the reservoir for leaks.

⚠️ Attention! On models FB15 with diesel engine (For example, 1.5 dCi) the washer reservoir may have an additional level sensor. When replacing, make sure that the new tank is compatible with this option, otherwise an error will light up on the dashboard.

How to fix a leaking tank without replacing it

If the washer reservoir is cracked, but the crack is small, it can be temporarily repaired. This is relevant if it is not possible to buy a new tank or you need to urgently fix the leak.

Repair methods:

• 🔥 Soldering plastic - suitable for cracks up to 3–4 cm long. Use a soldering iron with a power of 40–60 W and a plastic rod (for example, from an old bottle). Pre-clean the surface of grease with acetone.
• 🧴 Epoxy glue (For example, Loctite Plastics Bonding System) - applied to a dry and grease-free surface. Withstands vibration but is not suitable for large cracks.
• 🧲 Cold welding (For example, Poxipol or Abro Steel>) - hardens quickly, but may fall off over time due to vibrations.
• 🔧 Installing a fiberglass and epoxy patch is the most reliable option for major damage.

Before repairing, be sure to:

1. Drain the liquid and dry the reservoir.
2. Sand the crack area with sandpaper (120-220 grit).
3. Degrease the surface with a solvent (acetone, white spirit).
4. Apply the repair compound and allow it to dry completely (usually 12-24 hours).

What to do if there is a crack near the fitting?

If the crack is located near the hose fitting, a glue or solder repair will not be reliable. In this case, it is better to completely replace the tank or use a special repair kit for plastic tanks (for example, Permatex Plastic Weld).

A repaired tank will last from several months to 1–2 years, but this is a temporary solution. Replace it with a new one as soon as possible.

Common mistakes when working with the washer reservoir

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when servicing the washer system. Here are the most common ones on Nissan Sunny FB15:

• 🔌 Battery not disconnecting before working with the pump. This may cause a short circuit or airbag deployment (if the wiring is touched).
• 💦 Using water instead of washer in winter. This causes the tank or tubes to rupture when frozen.
• 🔧 Use of excessive force when removing hoses. Plastic fittings on FB15 fragile and easy to break.
• 🧴 Pouring concentrate without dilution. This may damage the paintwork and rubber seals.
• 🚗 Ignoring injector checks after replacing the tank. Clogged spray nozzles are a common cause of washer not working.

Another common mistake is incorrect installation of the tank. On Sunny FB15 it must be fixed strictly according to the marks, otherwise the hoses will bend and the pump will work with overload. If after replacement the fluid flows in jerks or the pump hums, check the position of the tank and the integrity of the pipes.

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Always flush the system before adding new fluid! To do this, use distilled water with the addition of vinegar (1:10) or a special cleaner (for example, Liqui Moly Scheiben-Reiniger).

Washer system maintenance: care tips

To keep the washer reservoir and pump on Nissan Sunny FB15 last longer, follow these recommendations:

• 📅 Change fluid every 6 months (in spring and autumn), even if the tank is not empty. Over time, the washer loses its cleaning properties and can form sediment.
• 🧹 Clean the injectors once every 3 months. To do this, remove them and soak them in a solution of citric acid (1 tablespoon per glass of water) for 10–15 minutes.
• ❄️ In winter, use only frost-resistant liquid with a temperature reserve (for example, if it’s -10°C outside, take a washer to -25°C).
• 🔍 Inspect the tank regularly for cracks, especially after severe frosts or mechanical shocks (for example, when replacing a battery).
• 🛠️ Check the fastening of the tank - on FB15 it often weakens due to vibrations, which leads to friction of the tank against the body and the appearance of cracks.

If you often drive off-road, install additional protection on the tank - for example, a metal screen or a plastic casing. This will protect it from damage from stones or branches.

Also useful to have in the trunk repair kit for emergencies: spare hose, clamps, epoxy glue and 0.5 liters of washer fluid. This will help you quickly troubleshoot problems on the road.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the washer reservoir Nissan Sunny FB15

Is it possible to use washer for summer in winter if you dilute it with alcohol?

No, this is not recommended. Summer washers do not contain anti-icing additives, and even after diluting with alcohol they can freeze at low temperatures. In addition, alcohol is aggressive to rubber seals and can shorten the life of the pump. It is better to use specialized winter liquid.

How to check the operation of the washer pump without removing the reservoir?

Connect the pump directly to the battery (plus to the pump contact, minus to the housing). If the pump does not work, the problem is in itself. If it buzzes, but does not pump fluid, check the hoses for blockages or breaks. On FB15 the pump can also be checked via the diagnostic connector, but this requires a scanner (for example, Launch CReader).

What should I do if, after replacing the reservoir, the fluid still leaves?

The reasons may be as follows:

1. Leaking hoses or connections. Check clamps and fittings.
2. Crack in the new tank (defect). Examine it in good lighting.
3. Leakage from the pump. Remove it and check the O-ring.
4. Damage to pipes under the hood (for example, from friction with the engine).

If you cannot find the leak visually, add a bright dye (for example, fluorescent) to the liquid and shine it with an ultraviolet lamp.

What is the volume of the washer reservoir? Nissan Sunny FB15?

Standard tank volume - 3.5 liters. However, on some versions (for example, with all-wheel drive) it may be less - about 3 liters. You can find out the exact volume by looking at the tank’s catalog number or in the instruction manual.

Can I install a washer reservoir from another Nissan model?

Theoretically it is possible, but only if they match:

• Dimensions and shape of the tank (it should fit in its regular place).
• Location of hose fittings.
• Type of fastening (number and location of bolts).
• Presence/absence of a level sensor.

For example, tanks from Nissan Almera N16 or Tiida may fit, but the fasteners will need modification. It is better to use the original or certified analogues.