Rear Wiper Issue

snapshot88 · #1 02-12-2008, 11:00 PM

I have an '04 3.0, and just recently my rear wiper is missing alot of the rear window when wiping. If I'm looking at the rear window/wiper from the side of the car, it probably only wipes the bottom quarter of the window (where the angle of the window is at its steepest). It doesn't even make contact with the upper half of the window where the angle of the window changes and isn't as steep. The wiper is probably like a 1/2 inch off the window when it wipes over that part. I've replaced the wiper blade and made sure the wiper blade/arm is pushed all the way against the window but the issue still happens. Anyone ever have this issue? Do I need to have the wiper arm replaced or something?

rayxi · #2 02-12-2008, 11:14 PM

It's a common problem. Most likely cause is dirt in the hinge making it harder for the spring to apply wiper pressure onto the glass. Wash the hinge area, dry and then apply WD40 sparingly to the hinge while working the arm up and down. Wipe off excess WD40 or it'll just attract more dirt.

sprocket1200 · #3 02-14-2008, 05:22 PM

you may want to be careful using the wd40 as it disperses water. use it to clean up the area, then use a gear oil to lubericate the hinge (80w90 is fine). clean up excess and drive...

TowX · #4 02-15-2008, 06:42 PM

Had the same problem on my '04. Entire arm was replaced under warranty.

Unit107 · #5 02-15-2008, 06:58 PM

I have the same problem on my 2001 4.4i. However, mine is out of warranty. I have checked alot of on-line sources and all only seem to sell replacement blades, and not the OEM arm itself. Any suggestions on where to find one on-line to avoid paying the dealer markup? It looks like a pretty easy item to replace.

TowX · #6 02-15-2008, 07:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Unit107

I have the same problem on my 2001 4.4i. However, mine is out of warranty. I have checked alot of on-line sources and all only seem to sell replacement blades, and not the OEM arm itself. Any suggestions on where to find one on-line to avoid paying the dealer markup? It looks like a pretty easy item to replace.

did you try realoem.com? If it's listed there, then Pelican.com can order it for you. But first try rayxi's recommendation on doing a thorough cleaning. At least that's free.

PersonaNonGrata · #7 02-18-2008, 02:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Unit107

I have the same problem on my 2001 4.4i. However, mine is out of warranty. I have checked alot of on-line sources and all only seem to sell replacement blades, and not the OEM arm itself. Any suggestions on where to find one on-line to avoid paying the dealer markup? It looks like a pretty easy item to replace.

Your wiper arm is an older design. I believe it was updated in '03 some time. The older version is plastic and the newer arm is metal. The newer one will also accept replacement/non-OEM blades like Bosch Icons and Valeos (neither have the spring mechanism of most blades). The cost is about $30 for the arm.

Batm4n · #8 02-10-2009, 11:38 AM

I have an 03 with the metal arm and I still experience this issue.
I washed the metal joint and applied some WD-40 and it fixed it up.

I don't think the metal arm addresses this issue.
I did have my front metal wipers lose some of their color. The dealer replaced it under warranty, but I doubt I can get it done again under extended warranty

daway · #9 02-10-2009, 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Batm4n

I have an 03 with the metal arm and I still experience this issue.
I washed the metal joint and applied some WD-40 and it fixed it up.

I don't think the metal arm addresses this issue.
I did have my front metal wipers lose some of their color. The dealer replaced it under warranty, but I doubt I can get it done again under extended warranty

I have a 01 X 3.0i.

I had this issue (1/2 of window wiping only) a couple of month ago and i had the plastic arm w/ the OEM type of blade frame that only could be bought at BMW. I bought the new metal type (upgraded part) and blade w/ new type frame (can use any from auto shop) and the cap to cover the nut. I have a CCA BMW card and saved a lot from the dealer parts dept. and no shipping (way under $60 and 10 min to put on)!

The spring on the plastic arm stretches out over time (metal ones might too, arm is heavier...like any spring it will lose its form, springs for the suspension and etc) and how light the plastic arm is...this will not hold a good wipe on the window.

1st i would try the oil tip, if it does not work then try a new blade then check out the spring on the arm...

Stewthebassman · #10 02-16-2008, 06:20 PM

Hey thanks for the fix, rayxi!

Our '04 had the problem. I Sprayed some counter cleaner on it, then some WD40, then I oiled it with some Synlube bike chain lube, and it works fine now!