BMW Rain Sensor Problem

[bbbngai]

[FONT='Verdana','sans-serif']I bought my 2nd hand X5 (2004) in Hong Kong a couple of months ago. Everything seems fine except the rain sensor. It does not work even when it is raining dogs and cats. I cannot even choose any intermittent speed (at least I want to have a slow wipe - just like the old version BMW w/o rain sensor). I have searched all the webs and now become an expert.

There are basically 3 ways to deal with the problem:-

(1) Replace the OEM windshield with the original IR receptor attached. This ensures the sensor receives a clear and accurate signal and it will save all the problems. If necessary, you may also need to replace a rain/light sensor unit (just between the IR receptor and the mirror), which is a easy DIY job.

(2) If you have already replaced a windshield which is not OEM, you may find bubbles in the IR receptor area. This cause the rain/light sensor malfunction. You have to remove all the adhesives on the surface of windshield and the IR receptor (be careful not to break the IR receptor when you try to take it off). One way to attach it to the windshield is using a thin layer of transparent (not translucent) silicon gel. Someone has tried the 'Permatex 66B' and it works perfectly well and no need to change another OEM windshield.

(3) Just unplug the rain/light sensor and you will get the intermittent speed back (just like the old model, i.e. it will speed up when you are driving and slow down when the car is station...wow!) Unfortunately, you will also lose the auto light (that I don't really care).

Mine is an OEM windshield but somehow, the air bubble appears and cause all the problems. To me, the rain/light sensor is cool but if it creates problem...further problems, I'd rather sacrifice it. That's why I choose option (3) and I am still happy with this choice. Maybe one day when my windshield is cracked and it is insured, I will get it again. Ha Ha.

Thanks for your attention.
p.s. if you want to see DIY photos, please let me know.[/FONT]