If your windshield washer motor is bad it will either not work or may work intermittently and not allow a spray of washer fluid to come out of the washer fluid tank to spray on the windshield.
In some cases the windshield washer motor may not work at all or it may be a blow fuse or loose wire connection to the pump.
To test a wiper washer motor ensure the wiper washer tank has enough cleaning fluid in it.
Then turn the key to the accessory side without starting the engine.
Next press and hold the windshield wiper fluid switch or button for a couple of seconds.
Listen for the pump to make a whir sound and feel for any vibrations.
Look for fluid spraying out of the nozzles.
If the fluid is not coming out it could be clogged nozzles near the windshield or the wiper washer fluid motor on the tank is bad.
A fuse could also be out or the fluid could be low.
If the wiper washer motor is not working you may need to replace the whole wiper washer tank which comes with the motor.
It's also normal for the washer fluid to sputter out at first but it should form a steady stream or a fan pointed toward the center of your windshield when the washer pump works as it should.
The cost to replace a windshield wiper fluid motor or windshield washer pump is around $90.00 to $225.00 for parts and labor.
The cost of replacing the windshield wiper fluid motor can vary from vehicle to vehicle and if it's easier to change out it will take less time and cost less.
If you're up to replacing the windshield wiper fluid motor yourself you can do so for around $50.00 to $100.00 and your time.
You can buy the tank along with the wiper fluid motor online and they are pretty easy to replace.
However if you have to have a shop replace it then you should expect to pay around $100.00 to $225.00 depending on the vehicle.
A mobile mechanic or other local shop or local mechanic can also replace the windshield wiper motor and it will be cheaper than a dealership.
Dealerships charge more for parts and labor to replace parts and so it's best to use a local auto shop instead of the dealership.