VW Golf Wipers Dead: Switch vs Mechanic's Uncertainty

Had the same issue on a 2014 VW Passat TDI. The wiper motor completely failed after similar symptoms. Initially thought it was the wiper switch, but diagnostic testing revealed a more complex problem involving the wiring harness connection to the rain sensor module. The repair involved replacing the entire wiper motor assembly and reconnecting the wiring harness. The original problem stemmed from corrosion in the electrical connections, which caused intermittent wiper function before complete failure. The rain sensor was also affected, showing error codes similar to yours. This is considered a significant repair since it involves multiple electronic components and requires specific diagnostic equipment to properly identify the fault. Most general repair shops struggle with accurate diagnosis of these systems. The repair process requires removing several components to access the wiper motor assembly and testing the complete circuit. In my case, the mechanic also needed to reprogram the control module to properly communicate with the new wiper motor. Best approach is finding a shop with VW specialty experience, particularly with electrical systems. They should be able to properly diagnose whether its the wiper motor, rain sensor, or wiring harness causing the malfunction.

Thanks for sharing that experience with the wiper motor. My windshield wipers had very similar symptoms. The wiper switch started acting up first, then the cruise control started being temperamental before everything failed. Would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was? Just wondering if the prices are still similar these days. Also, did you have any other electrical issues pop up after getting it fixed? My mechanic mentioned there might be related problems with the turn signal module that could surface later.

Actually got my car back from the shop last week after dealing with the wiper switch problem. The issue turned out to be much simpler than the wiper motor replacement in my previous case. The mechanic found a loose connection in the steering column wiring that was affecting both the windshield wipers and cruise control. The repair was straightforward, just 95€ to fix the cable connection. No wiper motor replacement needed this time. The wiring was reconnected properly and all functions are working perfectly now. The rain sensor and turn signals are also operating normally with no error codes showing up. This latest repair was much less complex than my previous experience. Since the fix, all electrical systems are functioning correctly with no new issues appearing. The steering column components, including the wiper switch, are all communicating properly with the control modules now. Worth noting that proper diagnosis really made the difference in repair costs this time around. Getting straight to the actual connection problem saved a lot compared to unnecessarily replacing parts.

I just got back from having my wipers fixed and wanted to update everyone. After comparing repair quotes, I went with a different shop that specializes in VW electrical systems. Smart move, they found the actual problem in about an hour. Turned out my steering column had a damaged wiring connector that was causing the windshield wipers and other controls to malfunction. Total repair cost was 230€ including diagnostic time. They fixed the wiring harness and tested all related systems including the rain sensor and turn signals. Much better outcome than I expected, especially after hearing horror stories about complete wiper motor replacements. The car is running perfectly now, no error codes and all electrical systems working normally. Really glad I got a second opinion instead of rushing into more expensive repairs.