Leak from water tank

[Aprtylittlemess]

Hi, I’m new here and in need some help, basically my 2011 Q5 has started leaking water from the washer fluid reservoir, it runs right though and is empty again within about 20 minutes,  however it only seems to leak when I use the window washers. Any help on how I could check where the leak is coming from? 

Thanks x

[Steve Q]

Welcome to the forum Lisa, you'll find the members on here are a friendly and helpful bunch. Do you know which window washer is causing the leak (front or rear)? 

As the pump is working and the tank can hold water, my guess is that one if the pipes has come loose. Usually I have found it's the pipe for the rear washer jet that has popped off from a connector or the pipe has split. 

To test my theory, have a look to see which washer jet empties the tank faster. Or alternatively have a look/feel in the boot for water in the spare wheel well area, damp carpets/interior trim or for any sign of staining to the headlining etc. 

If it's the front washer jet that's at fault, then again I would suspect the pipe(s) have failed. Open the bonnet and look for any signs of a wet engine. The pipe will run on the edge of the bonnet and will be obscured by the sound deading on the underside of the bonnet. 

I hope I've made sense, and please keep us posted on how you get on :) 

Cheers

Steve