2025-2026 Audi Windscreen Washer System Not Working TSB

Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) has undergone revisions to ensure comprehensive and accurate information. The current version, Revision 2, was released on February 18, 2026. It includes several updates compared to the initial publication.

Symptoms of the Windscreen Washer System Fault

Owners of affected 2025-2026 Audi A5, S5, and A6 models may experience a complete failure of the windscreen washer system. The primary symptom reported by customers is simply: "The windscreen washer system is not working."

This issue directly impacts visibility, especially during adverse weather conditions, as the system is unable to clear the windshield effectively. If you notice your washer fluid not spraying, or spraying weakly, this technical service bulletin may apply to your vehicle.

Technical Background: Understanding the Cause

Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2079245/2 identifies the root cause of the Audi windscreen washer fault as a problem with the washer fluid hose routing near the hood hinge. Specifically, the hose can become squashed or kinked, preventing fluid flow.

There are two primary reasons for this kinking, both stemming from manufacturing or assembly processes:

1. Overtightened Claw Clip: The claw clip, which secures the washer fluid hose, may have been tightened too much at the factory. This excessive pressure can compress the hose, blocking the passage of washer fluid and leading to a significant reduction or complete cessation of flow.
2. Incorrectly Positioned Clips: The clips designed to hold the hose in place may have been installed in the wrong position during vehicle assembly. Improper positioning can lead to the hose bending at an acute angle, creating a kink that restricts fluid movement. This misalignment can cause the hose to be pinched when the hood is closed or during normal vehicle operation.

In most cases, this issue can be resolved without needing to replace the entire washer fluid hose, focusing instead on correcting the clip positioning and hose routing to restore proper function.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

When a customer reports that their windscreen washer system is not working, technicians should first confirm the complaint. Once confirmed, the diagnostic process involves a detailed inspection of the washer fluid hose and its clips near the hood hinge.

Key areas for inspection include:

• Clip Distance: Measure the distance between the claw clip and the pine-tree clip. This distance should ideally be 160mm, with a maximum tolerance of +5mm. Deviations from this measurement can indicate improper hose tension or routing, contributing to the Audi windscreen washer fault.
• Clip Orientation: The claw clip must be positioned at a 90-degree angle relative to the pine-tree clip. This specific orientation is crucial for ensuring the hose is correctly seated in the engine compartment and under the bonnet without twisting.
• Hose Extrusion Line: Inspect the extrusion line on the hose itself. If this line appears twisted, it indicates that the hose is under tension or incorrectly routed. To properly check for twisting, both clips should be released, allowing the hose to relax and reveal any tension-induced twists.

Figure 1 in the TSB visually demonstrates a typical kink in the washer fluid hose, highlighting the problem area where fluid flow is obstructed. Figure 2 then illustrates the correct, smooth routing of the washer fluid hose, showing how it should appear when properly installed without kinks or undue tension. Figure 3 further clarifies the correct clip position, detailing the 160mm distance and 90-degree angle required for optimal function, preventing future kinking.

Repair Procedure Summary

Addressing the Audi windscreen washer fault involves a precise procedure to correct the hose routing and clip positioning, as outlined in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2079245/2. The goal is to ensure the washer fluid hose is free from kinks and twists, allowing for unimpeded fluid flow.

Here's a summary of the repair steps:

1. Initial Assessment and Clip Release: Begin by checking the existing clip positions and hose routing as described in the diagnosis section. Release both the claw clip and the pine-tree clip to relieve any tension on the hose and allow for proper repositioning. This step is critical to ensure the hose can be manipulated without resistance.
2. Reshaping the EPDM Hose: If the EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) hose has developed a kink, it can often be reshaped. Technicians should use a hot air blower to gently warm and