BMW 3 Series Hybrid Wiper Malfunction Causes Concern

Hey there! I've got some experience working on cars, though I wouldn't call myself an expert. I had a similar issue with my 2021 BMW 5 Series Hybrid last winter. The wipers were doing exactly what you're describing, totally unpredictable and driving me crazy! Turned out to be a faulty connection in the wiring harness near the wiper control module. Took it to my regular workshop, and they found some corroded cables that were causing the weird behavior. The fix wasn't too complicated, they replaced the wiring connection and recalibrated the system. Cost me about 95 Euro and hasn't given me any trouble since. Could you share which error code you're getting? Also, have you noticed if this happens more during wet weather or all the time? This info would help figure out if you're dealing with the same issue I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I've got the same problem with my 3 Series, currently at 103116 KM. Just had it serviced last month too, which makes this even more frustrating. Getting error code B7F542, and it's happening regardless of the weather. Definitely seems electrical rather than mechanical, based on what you're describing. Did your mechanic mention how long the repair took? I need my car for work, so trying to figure out if this is a quick fix or if I should arrange for alternative transport.

Hey again! Glad to help out more with this. Yeah, when I had my 5 Series fixed, the whole repair took about 3-4 hours. I dropped it off in the morning and had it back by early afternoon. The error code you're getting (B7F542) is actually different from what I had, but it's still pointing to an electrical issue. Since you mentioned your recent service, I'd definitely bring that up with the workshop. Sometimes these issues can pop up if something got knocked loose during routine maintenance. With your mileage being similar to what mine was when I had the problem (I was at around 98000 KM), it could just be normal wear and tear on the electrical connections. One thing I forgot to mention in my first reply, before I got it fixed, I tried disconnecting the battery for about 15 minutes to reset the system. It helped temporarily but the problem came back after a few days. Not a fix, but might help you get by until you can get it to the shop. Honestly, based on what you're describing, it sounds like it could be more than just the wiring harness I had issues with. Might want to arrange that alternative transport just to be safe. Better to have a backup plan and not need it, right?

Thanks so much for all the detailed info! Really helpful, especially the tip about the battery disconnect, might try that as a temporary fix. You're right about arranging backup transport, I'll definitely do that. The timing detail is super useful too, 3-4 hours sounds manageable, but I'll plan for a full day just in case since my issue might be different from yours. I'll call the workshop tomorrow and mention both the recent service and the possibility of loose connections. The fact that you had similar mileage when your problem occurred makes me feel better, at least I know it's not just my car acting up! Will bring up the wiring harness possibility too, though like you said, it could be something else since I've got a different error code. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. It's always nerve-wracking when these things happen, but having some insight definitely helps with planning the repair. Thanks again!