BMW X3 Washer System Failure: Multiple Functions Affected

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2005 BMW X5 last year. The symptoms were exactly the same, no washer fluid spray and non-functioning auto-wipers. Turned out the pump cable connection had corroded and lost contact. The relay was also affected due to moisture getting in. The mechanic first checked the fuse (which was fine), then traced it to the wiring harness near the washer fluid reservoir. The connector was pretty much shot and had to be replaced, along with the relay. The repair wasn't particularly complicated, but accessing the components required removing some trim pieces and the wheel well liner. It wasn't a serious issue in terms of car safety, but it needed fixing because you really notice it when you can't clean your windshield. The job took about 2 hours total. Just make sure they check both the pump connection and relay, sometimes mechanics only replace the pump without checking the electrical components. Good luck with the repair!

Thanks for sharing your experience! This is super helpful, especially about the corrosion issue, sounds exactly like what might be happening with mine. Been meaning to ask, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole repair? Also, has everything been working fine since then, or have you noticed any other electrical quirks popping up? Just want to make sure I know what I'm getting into before heading to the shop, and your X5 fix sounds pretty similar to what mine might need.

Hey again! Glad I could share my experience! Just wanted to follow up, I had the repair done and it cost me 165 € to fix the cable connection and relay. Everything's working perfectly now, the washer spray, auto-wipers, and headlight cleaning system are all back to normal. Haven't had a single issue since the repair. The mechanic did a thorough job with the electrical connections and made sure everything was properly sealed to prevent future corrosion. Actually, they showed me the old corroded parts, and wow, they were in pretty rough shape! Haven't noticed any other electrical issues pop up afterward, so I think they really got to the root of the problem. The car's been running great, and it's such a relief to have working washers again, you don't realize how much you rely on them until they're not working! Hope this helps give you a better idea of what to expect cost-wise. It's definitely worth getting it sorted properly rather than letting it drag on.

Thanks so much for the follow-up! Just got back from the mechanic today and wanted to update you. What a relief, turns out it was exactly what you described! My issue was also caused by corroded connections, though my repair came in slightly higher at 190 € because they had to replace a bit more wiring. The funny part was watching the mechanic's face when he pulled out the old parts, they were completely green with corrosion! He showed me the before and after, and what a difference. The best part? Everything's working perfectly now. The washer spray is actually stronger than I remember it being before. Really appreciate your help on this one. Having your experience to reference helped me feel more confident about what needed to be done, and I wasn't caught off guard when they mentioned checking the electrical connections. Thanks again for saving me from probably getting overcharged somewhere else!