2010 BMW 328i Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Windshield Wiper Malfunctions in Your 2010 BMW 328i and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2010 BMW 328i 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 2010 BMW 328i 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.

What are the steps to diagnose the windshield wiper issue on a 2010 BMW 328i?

To diagnose the windshield wiper issue on your 2010 BMW 328i, start by checking the wiper motor, as this is often the primary culprit when wipers fail to operate. If the motor appears to be functioning, the next step is to inspect the wiper switch, which can also lead to operational failures. Should these components be in good condition, verify the wiper linkage for any signs of damage or disconnection, as this can impede wiper movement. Additionally, test the washer pump to ensure it is working properly, as a malfunctioning pump can sometimes be mistaken for wiper issues. If you have gone through these steps and the problem persists, it may be time to consult a BMW specialist who can provide further diagnostics. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot and potentially resolve the windshield wiper issue on your BMW.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2010 BMW 328i?

When it comes to the urgency of repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2010 BMW 328i, the implications are significant. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without functioning wipers, visibility during rain or snow is drastically reduced, increasing the likelihood of accidents. This is not just a matter of personal safety but also a legal one, as many jurisdictions require vehicles to have operational wipers to comply with road safety regulations. Neglecting this issue could lead to fines or citations, further complicating your driving experience. Additionally, understanding the potential causes of the malfunction—ranging from worn-out wiper blades to electrical issues—can help you diagnose the problem more effectively. Addressing these concerns promptly is essential not only for your safety but also for maintaining the vehicle's roadworthiness, ensuring that you can drive confidently in all weather conditions.

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