BMW i4 Washer Heater Malfunction: Temp Control Problems

Hey there! I have some experience with EVs, and I actually faced something similar with my 2018 BMW iX3 last winter. I get what you're going through. I noticed the same symptoms, washer nozzles acting up and error messages. Took it to my regular workshop, and it turned out to be a loose connection in the washer heater wiring. The tech found that one of the cables had worked itself loose, causing intermittent issues with the heating system. The fix was pretty straightforward, they reconnected and secured the cables properly. Cost me 95 Euro, and it's been working fine since then. Before we dig deeper into potential solutions, could you share: Are you getting any specific error codes? Did this start suddenly or gradually? Does it happen at specific temperatures? I'm familiar with BMW's washer systems (also owned an i3), so this info would help me give you more targeted advice.

Thanks for the detailed response! Just had my service done at 157124 KM and I'm getting error code P0955. The issue started gradually about a month ago. Initially, it would only act up during really cold mornings, but now it's happening more frequently, even in mild weather. The spray pattern is also becoming more inconsistent, sometimes it's just a weak dribble, other times it works fine. I noticed the system makes a slight buzzing sound when I try to use it, which wasn't there before. I'm wondering if I should try cleaning the nozzles first before going for a full repair. The heater seems to work intermittently, not completely dead.

Hey again! Interesting that you're getting the P0955 code, that's exactly what I saw on my iX3 before getting it fixed. The buzzing sound you're describing is really similar to what I experienced too. You know what's funny, I actually tried cleaning the nozzles first just like you're thinking about doing. Spent a good hour on it, but it didn't solve the underlying issue. In my case, that buzzing sound was definitely coming from the heater struggling because of that loose connection I mentioned before. Since you're getting the same symptoms at 157K, I'd say this is more than just clogged nozzles. The fact that it's happening in mild weather now reminds me of how my problem progressed. Started just like yours, only in the cold, then got worse over time. Given how similar this is to what I dealt with, I'd suggest skipping the cleaning attempt and going straight for checking the wiring. My repair bill might have actually been lower if I hadn't waited so long. The intermittent heater operation is a classic sign of electrical issues, trust me, I learned this the hard way! Have you noticed if the buzzing gets louder when it's colder? That was another telltale sign in my case.

I'll continue in's voice: Thanks for confirming my suspicions about the P0955 code and sharing your experience. The buzzing does get louder in colder weather, that's actually something I hadn't connected until you mentioned it. You've saved me some time by sharing your experience with the nozzle cleaning attempt. I was really hoping it would be a simple fix, but what you're describing matches my situation too closely to ignore. I'll skip the DIY cleaning and book it in for service. The fact that you had the same progression of symptoms, from cold-weather-only to all-weather issues, has convinced me this is likely the same electrical problem. Better to get it sorted now before winter really kicks in. Really appreciate the detailed feedback, it's given me a clear direction on what to tell the service center to check first. Just hoping my repair bill stays around what you paid! Will update once I get it fixed.