Audi S6 Wiper Switch Failure: How to Fix Stalling Arms

Having some experience working on Audis, I faced a similar issue with my 2014 Audi S7. The wipers stopped working unexpectedly, and it turned out to be a faulty connection in the wiring harness connecting the wiper switch to the control module. Initially thought it was the wiper switch in the steering column, but after inspection, the workshop found that moisture had caused corrosion in one of the plug connections. They had to partially disassemble the steering column to access and replace the affected wiring section. The repair cost was 95 Euro including labor and parts. The wiper blade system started working perfectly after the repair and hasnt given any problems since. The cruise control and other steering column functions were also checked during the repair to ensure everything was properly connected. To provide more specific guidance, could you share: Have you noticed any intermittent wiper function before complete failure? Does the wiper stalk feel loose or make unusual noises when operated? Are there any other electrical issues in the steering column area? What specific error code is showing in the fault memory?

Last serviced at 72951 KM and all seemed fine then. Since then, noticed that turning the wiper switch would sometimes make a clicking noise before the wipers stopped working entirely. No looseness in the stalk itself, but the error code reads P0917. Appreciate the insights about the wiring, thats really helpful information. Will get the connections checked first before replacing the whole switch assembly.

Thanks for the additional details. The clicking noise you described before complete failure is very similar to what I experienced with my S7. In my case, the clicking was actually coming from the corroded wiring harness connection attempting to send signals, not from the wiper switch itself. With error code P0917 and those symptoms, its definitely worth checking the wiring connections first. The clicking noise combined with gradual failure is a classic sign of a deteriorating electrical connection rather than a complete switch failure. From my repair experience, I recommend asking the workshop to: 1. Check all wiring harness connections near the wiper switch 2. Test the voltage readings at connection points 3. Inspect for any moisture damage or corrosion 4. Verify the rain sensor connections while they are at it The repair might be simpler and less expensive than a full switch replacement. In my case, they only needed to repair a small section of the wiring harness rather than replace the entire switch assembly. This approach saved both time and money.

Thank you for that detailed info about the wiring harness inspection. The clicking noise has become more frequent this week, so I will definitely have them check the connections first. My wiper motor seems to be working fine when manually tested, which supports the theory about it being a wiring issue rather than a mechanical problem with the switch. Looking at the repair costs you mentioned, fixing the wiring would be much more budget-friendly than replacing the entire wiper switch assembly. Will book it in next week and have them check all the electrical connections in the steering column. The cruise control and other functions still working normally definitely points toward a localized wiring issue rather than a complete switch failure. Thanks for helping narrow down the likely cause. Will update once I get the results from the workshop inspection.