Audi Q5 Wiper Failure: Switch vs Motor Problem Fix

I had a similar issue with my 2015 Audi Q3 last winter. I have some experience working on basic car maintenance, but electrical issues like this needed professional help. The wiper switch in the steering column was indeed the culprit in my case. After inspection, the workshop found that the wiring harness connection to the turn signal and wiper switch assembly had developed a fault. The repair involved replacing a section of the wiring and reconnecting it properly. Total cost was 95 Euro including labor. The symptoms were exactly as you describe, complete wiper failure with error codes. The good news is that once fixed, the problem never returned. Before you head to the shop, could you share: Does the washer fluid spray still work when you pull the wiper stalk? Can you hear any noise from the wiper motor when activating the switch? Did the problem occur suddenly or gradually? This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if it might be something else in the wiper system.

Thanks for the useful details. At my last service at 92668 KM they actually did check the wiper system and everything was normal. To answer your questions: The washer fluid spray does work when pulling the stalk, but I hear no sound from the wiper motor at all. The failure happened suddenly during light rain. After connecting a diagnostic tool, it showed a communication error between the rain sensor and wiper motor. When activating cruise control or other steering column functions, everything works normally, it seems isolated to the wiper system. Based on your experience, I am hopeful it could be just the wiring. I will have it checked at the shop since accessing the steering column components is beyond my skill level.

Thanks for those extra details. Since you mentioned the washer fluid spray still works while the wipers remain completely silent, this does sound different from my wiper switch issue. In my case, neither the spray nor the wipers responded at all. The communication error between the rain sensor and wiper motor is particularly telling. When my Q3 had its wiring problem, the diagnostic showed a different error related specifically to the wiper switch circuit. Given that all other steering column functions including the turn signal work fine, I would suspect either the rain sensor itself or the connection between the sensor and the wiper motor control module. This is actually a more common failure point than the wiper switch issue I experienced. The repair for a faulty rain sensor typically runs around 150 Euro to 200 Euro including labor, slightly more than what I paid for the wiper switch repair. Make sure the shop checks the wiring to the rain sensor first though, sometimes moisture can cause connection problems that are cheaper to fix than replacing the entire sensor. Would definitely recommend getting it looked at soon, since properly functioning windshield wipers are essential for safe driving, especially during rainy conditions.

Based on that detailed information, I will make an appointment with my local shop this week. The fact that my issue shows different symptoms than yours, particularly the working washer spray but completely silent wiper motor, makes me think the rain sensor connection might indeed be the core problem. My research also confirms what you mentioned about rain sensor issues being relatively common. While 200 Euro is not a small amount, it is a reasonable price for ensuring proper windshield wiper function and safety. At least the diagnostic tool reading helps narrow down the possible causes, which should save some troubleshooting time at the shop. The wiring harness and connections will be the first things I will ask them to inspect before replacing any components. Since all other steering column functions work perfectly, focusing on the rain sensor area makes the most sense. I appreciate you sharing your repair experience, it helps to go to the shop with some background knowledge of the possible issues and costs.