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Can I Change My Car Wheels From 16 Inch to 18 or 20 Inch?

     A Complete Guide to Legality, Safety, Tyres, Fitment and Getting It Right Changing the wheels on a car is one of the most popular modifications people make. A larger set of alloy wheels can completely transform the appearance of a vehicle. A car that looks ordinary on standard 16-inch wheels can look much more aggressive and sporty with 18, 19 or even 20-inch alloys. But what happens if your car currently has 16-inch wheels and you want to fit 18 or 20-inch wheels? Follow Car Guru DIY Blog Is it legal? Will the car still pass its MOT? Will the larger wheels damage the suspension? Will the tyres rub against the arches? Will your speedometer become inaccurate? And perhaps most importantly:  how do you make sure the modification is actually safe? The short answer is that increasing wheel diameter from 16 inches to 20 inches can be possible, but you cannot assume that any 20-inch wheel will fit simply because the bolt pattern looks correct. The wheel, tyre, suspensi...

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Kia Washer Pump Not Working? How to Replace It Yourself

 

How to Replace the Washer Pump in a Kia - Step-by-Step DIY Guide

If you own a Kia , you’ve probably enjoyed its reliability, compact design, and low maintenance costs. However, one common issue that many Kia  owners encounter over time is a washer tank or washer pump problem.

Whether your windshield washer isn’t spraying, your tank is leaking, or the pump seems dead, don’t worry  you can fix it yourself! In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through how to replace the washer pump in a Kia Picanto, saving you both time and money.


 Common Kia Picanto Washer Tank Problems

Before jumping into the repair, it’s important to understand what might be causing the issue. The washer tank system in your Kia Picanto consists of a reservoir (tank), hoses, nozzles, and a small electric pump that pushes fluid to your windshield.

Here are the most common causes of washer tank issues:

  • Clogged nozzles – Dirt or debris can block the spray nozzles.

  • Leaking hoses or reservoir – Cracks or worn-out seals can lead to fluid loss.

  • Malfunctioning washer pump – The most frequent cause, often due to age or freezing temperatures.

The washer pump is especially fragile in cold weather. When washer fluid freezes, it can crack the pump housing or damage the internal motor. Watch vieo tutorial how to do it step by step:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Hdkv8bXx68 




 Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, prepare these tools and items:

  • Jack and wheel wrench

  • Flat screwdriver

  • Replacement washer pump (compatible with your Kia Picanto model)

  • Rubber gloves and rags

  • Container to catch washer fluid (optional)




 Step-by-Step: How to Replace the Washer Pump

Let’s dive into the process! Follow these simple steps carefully.

Step 1: Locate the Washer Tank

Open the hood of your Kia Picanto. The washer tank is easy to spot - it’s the white plastic container with a blue cap. The tank extends from the top of the engine bay down to the bottom of the car.

Step 2: Prepare Your Work Area

To get better access to the pump (which is at the bottom of the tank), it’s best to remove the front wheel on the same side as the tank.

  1. Loosen the wheel nuts slightly.

  2. Jack up the car carefully — make sure to position the jack correctly to avoid damage.

  3. Once lifted, remove the wheel completely.

Step 3: Remove the Fender Liner

Behind the wheel, you’ll see the inner fender lining. Remove four plastic clips or pins two behind the wheel and two at the bottom. This will give you a clear view of the washer tank and the pump assembly.

Step 4: Inspect and Remove the Old Pump

Now, you can see the washer pump attached to the bottom of the tank.

  • Disconnect the electrical connector using a small flat screwdriver.

  • Gently pull out the pump from its rubber seal.

  • Remove the fluid hose and check for cracks or leaks.

You’ll likely find that the old pump is cracked or leaking where the hose connects that’s a common reason for washer fluid loss.

Step 5: Install the New Washer Pump

  1. Insert the new rubber seal into the opening of the washer tank.

  2. Push the new washer pump into the seal firmly.

  3. Reconnect the fluid hose and electrical connector.

  4. Check for leaks before reassembling everything.

Step 6: Reassemble and Test

Reattach the inner fender liner, secure the clips, and reinstall the wheel. Tighten the nuts, lower the car, and fill the washer tank with fluid.

Turn on your ignition and activate the washer if it sprays correctly, congratulations!  You’ve just replaced your washer pump successfully.


 Pro Tips

  • Always use winter-grade washer fluid if you live in cold regions. This prevents freezing and extends the pump’s lifespan.

  • If your washer nozzles are clogged, clean them with a fine needle or pin.

  • Double-check all connections before closing everything up.


 Why Do Washer Pumps Fail?

Washer pumps in compact cars like the Kia Picanto are small electric motors with plastic housings. Over time, they wear out or crack due to:

  • Extreme temperature changes

  • Low-quality washer fluid

  • Electrical corrosion

  • Age and vibration

By replacing it yourself, you can avoid expensive service costs workshops may charge 60–120 Brithish pounds for something you can do at home in about 30–45 minutes.


 Final Thoughts

Replacing the washer pump in your Kia Picanto is one of the easiest DIY repairs you can do even if you’re not a professional mechanic. It’s a great way to learn more about your car and keep it running smoothly.

If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more car maintenance tutorials and practical tips. Keeping your car in top shape doesn’t have to be complicated  sometimes, it’s just about having the right tools and a little patience.


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