Mercedes Windshield Washer Control Lever Location, Operation, and Refill Method (Including Hood Release Location)

Mercedes vehicles place the gear selector not in the center console but on a column-mounted stalk to the right of the steering wheel. For drivers used to other brands, this can make basic operations a little confusing at first.

From my own experience, I won’t go over the obvious basics, but rather share the parts I personally found tricky.

 

One of those is the windshield washer. Since most people don’t use it often, you might not know where it is when you suddenly need it. You end up pressing around here and there without success. Of course, drivers who keep their cars meticulously maintained won’t run into this problem.

 

The washer fluid is used to clean the windshield of dust and debris. In summer, it helps keep sticky dirt from baking onto the glass, while in winter, it can assist with clearing frost.

 

How to operate the washer on a Mercedes

1. In Mercedes cars, the washer is controlled from the left stalk behind the steering wheel.

If you look closely, you’ll see a windshield icon with water spraying on it. The arrow points to the right.

 

2. On the end of the stalk, there’s a button you push to the right. If you press it lightly, only the wipers will run without spraying fluid. Don’t panic—just push a little harder. With firm pressure, the washer fluid sprays onto the windshield.

 

Once activated, you’ll notice Mercedes’ high-pressure nozzles quickly cover the glass. Thanks to the multi-jet system, several nozzles spray at once, so the fluid reaches a wider area compared to most cars.

 

If washer fluid doesn’t spray properly

• Clogged nozzles: If the fluid doesn’t come out, the nozzles may be blocked.
• Filter issue: Weak spraying can be due to a clogged filter inside the washer system. Cleaning or replacing it restores proper pressure.
• Pump issue: If no fluid comes out at all and there’s no sound, the washer pump might have failed.

 

Refilling washer fluid in a Mercedes

1. Open the hood: Pull the release lever located on the lower left side of the driver’s seat area.

 

2. Locate the washer tank: With the hood open, look near the upper right side of the engine bay (driver’s side). You’ll see a blue cap—this is the washer fluid reservoir. Lift the cap to open.

 

3. Pour in the fluid: Slowly fill washer fluid into the opening. The tank holds about 5–6 liters. Stop once the fluid becomes visible at the top, then close the cap securely.

 

 

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