Water pump leaks? (FIXED, w/ instructions and pics)

[X5 Meister]

I don't know your car's year or model, but yes there was a known issue with the windshield wiper pump systems in the past. Using aftermarket low grade wiper fluid or straight water would clog the strainer on the end of the pump and cause failure or leaking. BMW issued an SIB on the matter recommending to use only BMW washer additive, preferably with distilled water, and they also made the strainer on the end of the pump with a larger mesh.

[Weasel]

Originally Posted by X5 Meister

I don't know your car's year or model, but yes there was a known issue with the windshield wiper pump system in the past. Using aftermarket low grade wiper fluid would clog the pump and cause failure or leaking. BMW issued an SIB on the matter recommending to use only BMW washer additive, preferably with distilled water, and they also made the hole in the pump larger.

And they still wear and leak... pretty much unavoidable after so many years.