2008 BMW 528xi Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Windshield Wipers on Your 2008 BMW 528xi 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 2008 BMW 528xi 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 2008 BMW 528xi 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.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2008 BMW 528xi?

When it comes to repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2008 BMW 528xi, the urgency cannot be overstated. The primary concern is safety; without functioning wipers, visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, many jurisdictions have laws requiring operational windshield wipers, and driving without them could result in fines or legal repercussions. Fortunately, the repair process is often straightforward and cost-effective, with common issues such as worn blades, faulty relays, or blown fuses being easily fixable at home. By addressing these problems promptly, you not only ensure your safety and compliance with road regulations but also maintain the overall functionality of your vehicle. Therefore, if you notice any signs of malfunction, it is crucial to take action immediately to avoid further complications.

What are the steps to diagnose the windshield wiper issue on a 2008 BMW 528xi?

When diagnosing windshield wiper issues on a 2008 BMW 528xi, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the windshield wiper motor and switch to ensure they are operational; this is a common culprit for wiper malfunctions. Next, inspect the wiper blades for any signs of wear or damage, as ineffective blades can lead to poor visibility. Don’t forget to verify the washer fluid pump, as a malfunctioning pump can prevent the washer fluid from reaching the windshield. Testing the intermittent wiper function is also crucial, as it should operate at various intervals as designed. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider replacing the windshield wiper motor, keeping in mind that this can be a more costly repair. Additionally, ensure that the windshield washer fluid reservoir is filled, as a lack of fluid can also hinder wiper performance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and resolve windshield wiper issues, ensuring safe driving conditions.

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