2018 Expedition Max Windshield Wiper Fluid Reservoir Replacement

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xbalti91

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- I wanted to post a write up of my experience, I probably should have taken pictures and videos but I failed to do so.​

I vastly searched different forums and the inter

How to Replace the Windshield Wiper Fluid Reservoir on a 2018 Ford Expedition​

Tools and Materials Needed:

  • Socket wrench set
  • Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
  • Pliers
  • Jack and jack stands (if raising the vehicle)
  • Replacement windshield wiper fluid reservoir
  • Safety gloves and glasses

Step-by-Step Instructions:​

1. Open the Hood and Disconnect the Battery

  • Open the vehicle’s hood.
  • Locate the positive & negative terminals on the battery and use a wrench to disconnect the battery cables. For safety, remove the battery from the vehicle.

2. Remove Battery Tray and Reservoir Clips

  • Remove any bolts securing the battery tray in place.
  • Once the tray is loose, locate the clips securing the windshield wiper fluid reservoir to the tray. Pop these clips off so the reservoir is free from the tray.

3. Raise the Vehicle and Remove the Passenger Side Front Tire

  • Use a jack to raise the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands.
  • Remove the passenger side front tire to gain access to the wheel well.

4. Remove Fender Liner Screws and Clips

  • Using a screwdriver or pliers, remove the screws and clips that secure the fender liner.
  • You don’t need to remove the entire liner, just pull down enough of it to access the windshield wiper fluid reservoir.

5. Remove the Bolt Holding the Reservoir

  • With the fender liner pulled down, locate and remove the bolt(s) securing the windshield wiper fluid reservoir in place.

6. Disconnect the Wiper Hoses from the Pump

  • Disconnect the windshield washer fluid hoses from the pump attached to the reservoir. You may need to gently wiggle the hose or use pliers to loosen the connection.

7. Disconnect the Sensor and Pump

  • Unplug the electrical connector for the fluid level sensor (if equipped) and the pump connected to the reservoir.

8. Remove the Reservoir

  • Carefully maneuver the reservoir down toward the hub area, ensuring no hoses or wiring are caught as you remove it from its position.

9. Reinstall the New Reservoir

  • Place the new windshield wiper fluid reservoir into the mounting location.
  • Reconnect the wiper hoses to the pump, and plug in the sensor and pump electrical connections.
  • Secure the reservoir in place with the bolt(s) you previously removed.
  • Reinstall the fender liner by securing the screws and clips back into place.

10. Reinstall the Battery Tray and Reconnect the Battery

  • Reinstall the battery tray, securing it with the bolts.
  • Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery terminal.

11. Test the System

  • Before finishing, test the wiper fluid system by turning on the wipers and activating the fluid. Check for any leaks around the pump and hoses.

Tips:​

  • Make sure to handle all electrical connections and hoses gently to avoid damage.
  • Be cautious when removing clips and screws to avoid losing any parts.
  • If the new reservoir doesn’t come with a pump or sensor, make sure to transfer those parts from the old one.
By following these steps, you should be able to replace the windshield wiper fluid reservoir on your 2018 Ford Expedition with ease.
 

Paddler

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I have a leak somewhere in the system, the tech at the dealership said I can get to everything by removing the battery tray. He said there's a grommet could be leaking or maybe a hose. Seems unlikely that the tank itself is leaking, but if so I think it could be reaired with some 3M 5200.
 

GixxerJasen

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PIA having to pull the fender liner and all that to get to it.

What year do you have? Any possibility it's the front camera washer? There's a Service Bulletin for that, I know because mine was bad. I'd leak half the fluid out of the reservoir. I did the whole process listed above to fully inspect the reservoir thinking I had a crack about halfway down. Nothing, all good. Did some searching and came across the washer issue. I didn't have the time to fool with the dealer over that, it was a $20 part and was a PIA to get to because the whole front end has to come off. Other than that, easy swap and haven't had the problem resurface.
 
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xbalti91

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It leaked pretty bad it wouldn't last full a day, seems like the pump was leaking through.

However I believe it is still leaking some where.

The vehicle is a 2018 Expedition Max Limited
 

GixxerJasen

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It leaked pretty bad it wouldn't last full a day, seems like the pump was leaking through.

However I believe it is still leaking some where.

The vehicle is a 2018 Expedition Max Limited
I'd lose right at half the tank in a day, then it'd stop, because the bottom half of the tank was lower than the camera cleaner.
Mine is an XLT, so no front camera.
Nope, you have other issues then, sorry.
 

bwoody

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its a 5 min job to get to the grommet the pump sits in. 3-4 screws to remove part of the inner fender liner. Just replaced my pump last week as it froze and was leaking. Was all done in about 15 and i removed the tire just because it was easier.
 
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xbalti91

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I have limited but no camera upfront. I did not see where it was leaking I never found a puddle or trace.
I believe the pump was letting fluid out, I think it might still be leaking some where, its a lot lower than the amount we have used.
 

Paddler

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its a 5 min job to get to the grommet the pump sits in. 3-4 screws to remove part of the inner fender liner. Just replaced my pump last week as it froze and was leaking. Was all done in about 15 and i removed the tire just because it was easier.
My liner seems to be one piece, and there are a bunch of push pins fixing it. 2018 Expedition Max. Am I missing something? I bought a set of trim panel tools.
 
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