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marvinfuchs1

BMW M3 Washer System Failure, Troubleshooting Help Needed

Headlight cleaning system without function

Hey everyone! My 2016 BMW M3 has some weird issues with the washer system. The windshield washers stopped working completely, and the auto wipers aren't functioning either. I suspect it might be related to the headlight cleaning system. Has anyone dealt with similar problems? What was the actual cause and how did your mechanic fix it? Looking to hear about your repair experiences before taking it to the shop. Thanks in advance!

4 comment(s)


raphaelblaze1

Hey there! I have some experience working on BMWs and faced a similar issue with my 2014 BMW M4 last year. The washer fluid pump was playing up, and it turned out to be a faulty cable connection to the pump and relay. Got it fixed at my regular workshop, they found the cable connection had corroded over time. Total repair cost was 165 Euro, and it sorted out both the washer and auto wiper functions. Been working perfectly since then. Before I share more specific details though, could you tell me if you're getting any warning messages on the dashboard? Also, can you hear the pump trying to work when you activate the washers? This would help narrow down if you're dealing with the same problem I had. By the way, if it helps, my has a 2016 M5 and went through something similar. Let me know those details and I'll try to point you in the right direction.

marvinfuchs1 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed response! Yes, I can hear a faint buzzing when I try to use the washers, but nothing comes out. No warning lights on the dash though. My car's running great otherwise with 14537 KM on the clock, just had its service last month. I was hoping to avoid a workshop visit, but from what you're describing, it sounds like I might have the same electrical issue. Did your mechanic have to remove any specific parts to access the pump connections? Just trying to get an idea of what I'm in for when I take it in.

raphaelblaze1

Hey again! Yes, seems like you're dealing with the exact same thing I had with my M4. That buzzing sound is what tipped off my mechanic too, it's usually a good indicator that the pump itself isn't completely dead, but there's an electrical connection issue somewhere along the line. For accessing the pump connections, my mechanic had to remove the front wheel liner to get proper access, it's a bit tucked away but nothing too crazy. The corrosion on my connections wasn't visible until they got in there, but once they cleaned it up and replaced the damaged section of wiring, everything started working perfectly again. Just a heads up, while they're in there, might be worth having them check the washer fluid level sensor too. Mine was starting to get a bit finnicky around the same time, though that wasn't the main issue. Since your mileage is pretty similar to what mine was when I had the problem, it could be worth looking at. The repair itself took about an hour and a half at my workshop. Would definitely recommend getting it sorted sooner rather than later, especially since winter's coming up and you'll want those washers working properly. Let me know how it goes when you get it checked out!

marvinfuchs1 (Author)

Thanks so much for all the helpful info! It's actually really reassuring to hear that it's likely just a connection issue and not something more serious. I'll definitely get it checked out this week, better to deal with it now than have it become a bigger problem later. Good tip about the washer fluid sensor too, I'll make sure to mention that to the mechanic when I take it in. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience in such detail. I'll update the thread once I get it sorted out, might help someone else with the same issue down the line. Seems like these connection problems are pretty common in our generation of M cars!

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