VW Touareg Wiper Failure: Switch Problem Alert

I had a similar issue with my 2004 VW Phaeton V6. As someone with some basic car maintenance experience, I first thought it was just the wiper switch too. The problem turned out to be a loose connection in the wiring harness near the steering column. The rain sensor was getting intermittent power, causing the car wipers to fail completely. Had no warning signs before the complete failure, it just stopped working one morning. The repair shop found that the wiper motor was receiving power, but the signal from the controls wasnt getting through. They traced it to a damaged connector in the wiring. Total repair cost was 95€, mainly for diagnostic time and fixing the connection. To help diagnose your issue better, could you share: Does the wiper motor make any noise when you activate the switch? What exact error message are you getting? Did you notice any intermittent issues before the complete failure? Does the washer fluid pump still work when you pull the stalk? These details would help determine if youre dealing with a similar wiring issue or if its something else in the system.

Last service was 2 months ago at 29331km. Thank you for your detailed response. My issue seems different, no noise at all from the wiper motor when activated. The error message reads Wiper System Error. Had no warning signs, worked perfectly until it stopped. The washer fluid pump still functions, I can hear it activating and fluid sprays, but the wiper blades remain stationary. Even tried cleaning around the wiper motor area thinking debris might be causing issues, but no change. Could the complete silence from the motor help narrow down the problem? Starting to think its either the motor itself or a more serious electrical issue.

Thanks for those additional details about your Touareg. The symptoms you describe, especially the completely silent wiper motor, are actually quite different from what I experienced with my Phaeton. The fact your washer pump works but the wiper motor remains silent is significant. This points more toward a failed wiper motor rather than the wiring harness issue I had. When my wiring connection was faulty near the steering column, the system would occasionally make clicking sounds as it tried to operate. Two things make me more confident its the motor: The washers still working means power is reaching that part of the system, Complete silence from the motor suggests the unit itself has failed Before replacing the wiper motor though, have the repair shop check the fuse and do a proper voltage test at the motor connections. A failed motor typically costs around 280€ plus labor, so worth confirming. My cruise control also acted up when I had my wiring issue, have you noticed any other electrical problems? If not, this further suggests its just the motor rather than a broader electrical problem like I dealt with.

Thanks for the insights. The more I hear, I think youre right about checking the wiper motor first. No other electrical issues on my Touareg, which makes me hopeful its isolated to just the wipers. Called a repair shop and scheduled diagnostic testing tomorrow. They said theyll start by checking the fuse and testing voltage at the wiper motor like you suggested. The complete silence when activating the turn signal and wiper switch does seem to point toward motor failure rather than a wiring harness problem. The 280€ estimate for a new motor is helpful, gives me a rough idea what to expect if thats the issue. At least the washer fluid system still works, which should make diagnosing easier since they can verify power is reaching that part of the system. Will update once I know what they find. Getting it fixed soon since driving without working wipers isnt really an option. Really appreciate all the detailed information, helped me understand the likely problem before heading to the shop.