The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.
A failed windshield wiper motor will do one of two things in the event of failure. First, it can intermittently work, meaning when the wiper switch is turned on, the windshield wipers may activate, and run for a random amount of time. This may happen at random, or change with a bump. Lastly, the windshield wipers could show no signs of activity, indicating motor failure.
The moment water touches the windshield, you know if you need new windshield wiper blades. If your wiper blades are torn, cracked, hard, or brittle, it is time for replacement. Wipers should also be replaced if the wiper blades only smear water around, seem to make a mess, streak the windshield, and miss large patches. If you are unhappy with the current wiper blades on your vehicle, this is a very economical change to make.
Windshield wiper arms will be replaced mainly for aesthetic reasons or damage. If the windshield arms become bent or rusted, the windshield wipers may not contact the windshield at the proper angle, or there may be no contact at all. Also, the sun will take a toll on these parts after years of use, and fading or clear coat peeling will result, not to mention rust.
To diagnose the windshield wiper issue on your 2012 BMW 128i, start by checking the wiper motor, as a malfunction here is often the primary culprit for wipers not functioning. If the motor appears to be operational, the next step is to inspect the wiper switch, which can sometimes fail and prevent the wipers from engaging. Following this, examine the fuses and relays, particularly fuse F50 and relays K36 and K37, as these components are crucial for the wiper system's operation. If the wipers still do not work, consider the possibility of a faulty wiper module, especially if you hear the motor running but the wipers do not move. Lastly, if the wipers are functioning but the washer fluid is not spraying, check the windshield washer pump for clogs. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the windshield wiper issues on your BMW, saving time and money on professional repairs.
Addressing the issue of non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2012 BMW 128i is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that demands immediate attention. When wipers fail to operate, especially during inclement weather, the risk of impaired visibility increases significantly, heightening the chances of accidents. Common causes for wiper failure, such as a blown fuse, malfunctioning motor, or broken controls, can escalate into more severe problems if left unattended. For instance, a simple fix like a disconnected wiper motor link arm can lead to more complex repairs if ignored. Moreover, slow or uneven wiper movement often indicates motor failure, which can compromise your ability to see clearly on the road. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the repair of your windshield wipers to ensure safe driving conditions and to mitigate any potential hazards that could arise from neglecting this vital component of your vehicle.
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