Wipers not working. 99 A4

[Trky]

My wipers stopped working one day when it was raining. They were working fine one day and I turned them off, they went to the off position and then one below it (single wipe) and back up to the off position. The wipers stuck straight up but stopped moving. I had to get out of the car and manually push them back down. Since then I have replaced the wiper relay with hopes that was the issue. To my surprise my wipers still don't work. I was thinking I would replace the wiper switch next, but it's about 200 plus shipping from rock auto. Just wanted to see another opinion before I waste any more money.

[revbjeff]

Have you checked the wiper linkage? Maybe it's seized or disconnected.

[Trky]

Nope. I have the bently on it's way. Once I get that I'll look into it. Is it difficult?

[revbjeff]

It's located behind the ECU box in the firewall area. The bolts are mostly easy to get to. One is kinda a bitch but not difficult.

[walky_talky20]

I'd recommend we start with diagnostics, rather than new parts (but that's just how I roll). Is anything even getting power? Get a good diagram and do some testing.

[Turbwhistle]

I think i have the same problem, i hit the wipers, and they stop randomly at some point in there arc, and it takes a while before i can get them to the proper position. It gets annoying.

[Trky]

I think i have the same problem, i hit the wipers, and they stop randomly at some point in there arc, and it takes a while before i can get them to the proper position. It gets annoying.

Mine don't work at all.

I haven't done any electrical diagnostics as I don't have a multi-meter (poor excuse, I need to get one). I've just been dealing with it by cleaning my windshield every time I get gas, but I live in FL. The rain season will be here in a couple months and I want this fixed before then.

When I flip the switch all the way up, I hear an electrical sound that seems to be coming from behind the cluster gauge but my hearing isn't that great and it could just be coming from the switch itself.

[Scientist]

I'll bet you my mortgage the linkage seized. Happened to my Passat. Take the whole thing out and disassemble both. A good cleaning and a touch of waterproof grease and you'll be fine.

[Trky]

I'll bet you my mortgage the linkage seized. Happened to my Passat. Take the whole thing out and disassemble both. A good cleaning and a touch of waterproof grease and you'll be fine.

That gives me hope! Thanks, I'll give that a shot.

[Scientist]

I don't know if I was clear but, when I said disassemble both I meant the shafts where you attach the wiper arms. There is a locking ring you have to carefully remove and then slowly twist and turn the shaft until it comes out of the housing. Take your time.