2015 BMW 535d Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Windshield Wiper Malfunctions in Your 2015 BMW 535d and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2015 BMW 535d 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 2015 BMW 535d 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 address the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2015 BMW 535d?

Addressing the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2015 BMW 535d is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. Windshield wipers are essential for maintaining visibility during rain or adverse weather, and their failure can significantly compromise road safety. Ignoring this issue can lead to dangerous driving conditions, as a clear view of the road is crucial for making informed decisions while driving. Additionally, the causes of malfunctioning wipers can range from simple fixes, like replacing worn-out blades, to more complex issues such as electrical failures or motor problems. Delaying repairs can exacerbate these issues, potentially leading to more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is vital to address any signs of wiper failure immediately to ensure both your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

What are the steps to diagnose the windshield wiper issue on a 2015 BMW 535d?

To effectively diagnose windshield wiper issues on your 2015 BMW 535d, start by ensuring that the windshield glass is clean and dry, particularly around the rain sensor, as this is crucial for proper initialization. Next, observe the wipers' behavior; if they do not return to their final resting position or move erratically, this may indicate a faulty wiper relay. If the wiper fluid is not dispensing, check the windshield washer pump, as low fluid levels can lead to overheating and malfunction. Additionally, inspect the washer tank for any build-up of debris or "gunk," which is a common problem in BMWs; cleaning the filters can often resolve this issue. If you need to remove the wiper for further inspection, carefully unscrew the nut and use a battery terminal puller if necessary to avoid damage. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the root cause of your windshield wiper problems, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

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