2016 BMW 328i GT XDrive Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Windshield Wiper Malfunctions in Your 2016 BMW 328i GT xDrive and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
75% chance it's the
Wiper Motor
0%
25% chance it's the
Switch
The most common reasons a 2016 BMW 328i GT xDrive windshield wipers aren't working are broken wiper motor and issues with the switch.
  • Wiper Motor: A faulty wiper motor or a bad electrical connection can result in intermittent or non-functioning windshield wipers.
  • Switch: A faulty switch can result in intermittent or complete failure of the electrical component it controls, leading to malfunctioning systems.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 BMW 328i GT xDrive windshield wipers aren't working?

Common Repairs

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.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2016 BMW 328i GT xDrive?

Repairing the non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2016 BMW 328i GT xDrive is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that demands immediate attention. When wipers fail to operate, your visibility during rain, snow, or other adverse weather conditions is severely compromised, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The urgency to address this issue stems from the fact that reduced visibility can lead to dangerous driving situations, putting both you and other road users at risk. Moreover, delaying repairs can exacerbate the problem, potentially leading to more significant damage to the wiper system or other related components, which could result in costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the repair of your windshield wipers to ensure a safe driving experience and maintain the overall functionality of your vehicle.

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