Wiper fluid sensor failure

[tp0d]

Had my wiper fluid tank sensor fail last week. Went to the dealer to get it replaced, and pcm updates done, they told me if I use Rain-X additive it will cause failure. Cant believe this, Ive used rain-x on all my previous trucks with no issue, and I love the performance of it.

They said they will replace it, but have to dump the tank, and would refill with blue crap. (rain-x i use is orange). I told em to leave sensor in there. Took it home and jumped the sensor out to turn off the annoying dinger.

Is the chemical in rain-x really that bad? My 2010 and older 05 never had that problem

-j

 

[jhenderson]

I never had that problem when I ran it in my 3rd gen although many others have. I haven't run it in my 4th gen. The good news is the sensor can be cleaned wih a tank of vinegar and water mix. While not any help below freezing its still the best glass cleaner I've ever use.

 

[gsbrockman]

Is the chemical in rain-x really that bad? My 2010 and older 05 never had that problem

-j

Google "rain x sensor failure".........you'll find plenty of class action lawsuit info. It's just not FCA vehicles, either..............

 

[Newsa]

Great! I just put a gallon of Rain-X in because it was on sale. I've had the cheap blue stuff clog the sprayer holes....... on previous vehicles, soni stopped buying the cheap stuff

 

[RCapehart]

Interesting. Rain x is all I have used for a few years now. 2 of my vehicles have sensors and both have failed. A 2009 Dodge caravan and a 2013 dodge caravan. I just put it in my new to me 2007.5 Dodge Ram 2500. Not sure if it has the sensor or not. I am going to look into cleaning the senso in my vans.

Ron

 

[jhenderson]

Anything that has a low fluid light has a sensor. The ingredients that make rain x shed water also insulate the sensor and keep it from realizing there is fluid in the reservoir. A simple cleaning or drain and flush seems to restore sensor function in most cases.

 

[Cummins12V98]

I tried RainX ONCE! Never again. I have always used 20/10 with great results.

 

[Regcabguy]

Is the sensor required by law or does FCA think owners can't visually check the tank?

 

[jhenderson]

Like many things in this world, our responsibility for ourselves has been deminished dramatically. We no longer believe it's encombant upon us to open the hood and have a look around before setting off on our days business. The only people I know who routinely inspect their ride is a pro driver.

 

[mwilson]

Like many things in this world, our responsibility for ourselves has been deminished dramatically. We no longer believe it's encombant upon us to open the hood and have a look around before setting off on our days business. The only people I know who routinely inspect their ride is a pro driver.

I still do a circle check, not every day but several times a week. Old habit. When hooking up to a trailer I always do it.

As far as the Rain-X I have been dumping it in my vehicles ever since it came on the market. No issues ever. Some handy on a morning like this as it will melt the frost immediately and I can take off without a warm up. A lot of mornings after about a mile the windshield will frost over, something to do with where my house sits in relation to the lake and a hill. Nice to simply squirt the washers and keep on motoring.

Maybe in warmer climates it would scum over the sensor???

 

[KCJackson1]

I was always suspicious of Rain-X washer fluid. I used to put the regular Rain-X on the glass, but while it was flawless in rain and snow, it would cause an almost blinding "screen" in a mist situation because the water drops wouldn't move as easily. I've used Prestone's seasonal fluids for over 10 years with no problem - Bug Wash in spring and summer, De-Icer in fall and winter. In particular, the De-Icer washer fluid actually cleans salt spray instead of just attempting to rinse it (which usually results in smearing).

 

[jhenderson]

Like I said, pro driver. Old habits die hard.

 

[TFucili]

I still do a circle check, not every day but several times a week. Old habit. When hooking up to a trailer I always do it.

100% agree. When I tow I do a quick walk around at every stop.