Windshield wipers blowing fuses?

BALROG1008

MEMBER
2012 BMW 335
3.0L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
78,500 MILES

The wiper relay was bad, and one fuse (30A) was blown. I replaced both and the wipers started functioning, however, the wipers were sluggish, not as fast as they should be, and when I started to back out of the driveway with the wipers on, I heard a pop, and the wipers froze. Should I focus on the wiper motor first or the front control module?

2 Replies

BALROG1008

MEMBER
14 POSTS

So, I pulled the cabin air intake cover off and unplugged the wiper motor harness. Replaced the fuse that was blown the other day then started the car. I used the column switch to use the wipers for about 5 minutes, but no pop of the fuse. I then shut the car off, reattached the harness to the wiper motor, started the car and used the wipers. They worked but the sluggishness was still present. I shut the car off and removed the fuse so as not to blow it. Possibly the wiper motor going south?

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Wednesday, March 15th, 2023 AT 8:40 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Hi,

Certainly, the motor could be failing. However, we may not be getting a good power supply to the fuse or after. The wiper motor can only be replaced in conjunction with the wiper console, so let's make sure it is getting the power it needs.

If you look at pic 1 below, I need you to check the red/green and the red/yellow wires for power. Additionally, I need you to check the brown wire for continuity to ground. Do this with the connector off the motor. Also, when testing, wiggle the wiring to see if there are changes in voltage. Specifically wiggle the ground wire to make sure we don't lose continuity and there are no changes in the wire's resistance.

If these test good, chances are it is the motor. The remaining pics are the directions for replacement.

Let me know if this helps or if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to make bigger)