BMW 328i Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with BMW 328i Windshield Wipers 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 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 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.

Inability to control the windshield wipers comes in several forms, and they are all indicative of windshield wiper switch failure. The windshield wipers may not work in all settings, may not turn on when requested, may not move to their parked position when turning off, or the washer pumps may or may not run at random. This is a general list of symptoms, but failure of anything the windshield wiper switch controls will indicate the need for testing the windshield wiper and washer switch.

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.

Troubleshooting Non-Functional Windshield Wipers in a BMW 328i

When faced with non-functional windshield wipers in your BMW 328i, begin your troubleshooting by checking the most accessible components first. Start with the wiper motor, switch, and fuses, as these are common culprits for wiper failure. If these elements appear to be in good condition, proceed to inspect the wiper relay, which is typically located under the hood or near the passenger side air filter housing. Testing relays 2 and 3 can also provide insight; if pulling one of these relays stops the wipers, you may have identified the issue. Pay attention to specific symptoms, such as decreased wiper speed or unusual noises, as these can indicate a failing motor that may require professional repair. Additionally, if your wiper blades are stuck due to inactivity, consider removing them and applying a lubricant like WD-40 to free them up. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issues with your windshield wipers, ensuring a safer driving experience.

How to Diagnose Non-Working Windshield Wipers in a BMW 328i?

When diagnosing non-working windshield wipers in a BMW 328i, it's crucial to identify the common problems that may be at play. Begin by examining the wiper motor, as this is often the primary culprit behind wiper failure. If the motor appears to be functioning, the next step is to check the wiper switch, which can also malfunction and disrupt the wipers' operation. Additionally, inspect the fuses associated with the windshield wipers; blown fuses can easily lead to a complete stop in wiper functionality. The wiper relay is another component to consider, as a faulty relay can prevent the wipers from turning on altogether. In some cases, both the wiper switch and relay may be defective, so a thorough inspection of both is advisable. If you experience intermittent wiper issues, restarting the car can sometimes reset the system and resolve temporary glitches. By methodically addressing these potential problems, you can effectively diagnose and troubleshoot the issues with your BMW 328i's windshield wipers.

Why Are the Windshield Wipers Not Working on a BMW 328i?

When your BMW 328i's windshield wipers stop working, it's crucial to address the issue promptly, as neglecting it can lead to dangerous driving conditions, especially in inclement weather. Common culprits include a malfunctioning wiper motor or problems with the wiper switch. If your wipers operate intermittently or only on certain settings, it may indicate that the fuse F50 and relays K36 and K37 are functioning correctly, but the problem could lie deeper within the vehicle's electrical system, such as a fault in the JBE module or damaged wiring. Additionally, improper installation of components can pinch the wiper wiring harness, leading to shorts that disrupt functionality. To ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle, it's essential to diagnose and resolve these issues as soon as they arise, preventing potential hazards on the road.

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