BMW 745i Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Non-Functioning Windshield Wipers in Your BMW 745i 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 BMW 745i 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 745i 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 745i

When faced with non-functional windshield wipers in your BMW 745i, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify and resolve the issue effectively. Begin by checking the wiper motor, as a lack of movement when activated often points to a malfunction. If the motor appears to be operational, inspect the wiper assembly to ensure that the arms and blades are correctly mounted and functioning without obstruction. Next, examine the wiper relay, which is crucial for controlling the wiper's operation; a faulty relay can disrupt the entire system. If the motor works when directly powered but not through the vehicle's wiring, investigate the power supply to the motor, as there may be an issue with the wiring harness. Additionally, keep an eye out for signs of motor problems, such as inconsistent wiper movement or complete inactivity. Lastly, don’t overlook the condition of the wiper blades themselves; worn blades can impair visibility and should be replaced regularly. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and fix the wiper issues, ensuring your BMW 745i is ready for any weather conditions.

What to Check When Windshield Wipers Aren't Working on a BMW 745i?

When your BMW 745i's windshield wipers fail to operate, it can be frustrating, but several common problems can be easily diagnosed and potentially resolved. Start by checking the fuse associated with the wiper system, as a blown fuse is a frequent culprit that can halt wiper function. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the windshield wiper relay, which may be malfunctioning and preventing the wipers from receiving power. Additionally, testing for electrical issues is crucial; manually moving the wipers while the vehicle is off can help identify if there is an electrical failure. If the wipers remain unresponsive, the wiper motor itself may be at fault, indicating that it could be time for a replacement. By methodically examining these components, you can effectively troubleshoot the issue and restore functionality to your windshield wipers.

Why Are the Windshield Wipers Not Working on a BMW 745i?

When the windshield wipers on your BMW 745i fail to operate, it is crucial to address the issue without delay. Non-functioning wipers can severely impair visibility during rain or adverse weather conditions, posing a significant safety risk not only to you but also to other road users. Common culprits include a blown fuse, a faulty relay, or even a malfunctioning wiper motor, all of which can be diagnosed with relative ease. If your wipers are unresponsive, start by checking fuse #1 located in the glove compartment and the wiper relay under the hood. Additionally, if the wipers only work intermittently or fail to move but activate when using the washer fluid, this could indicate a more specific problem that requires immediate attention. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more extensive repairs down the line, especially if the issue stems from a broken wire or a damaged wiper control system. Regular maintenance and timely repairs not only ensure your wipers function correctly but also enhance your overall driving safety.

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BMW 745i Windshield Wipers Not Working | RepairPal