BMW X7: Washer System & Auto-Wipers Mysteriously Failed

Hi there! I had a similar issue with my 2017 BMW X5 (also owned an X3 before). I have some experience working on cars, but nothing too advanced. My problem was exactly like yours, no washer fluid and wipers acting up. Took it to my trusted workshop and turns out it was a faulty cable connection to the washer pump. Total repair was around 165 Euro, which included diagnosing and fixing the connection. The mechanic mentioned these issues are sometimes interconnected in BMWs because they share the same pump system for both windshield and headlight washers. Could you share more details about when this started happening? Also, can you hear the pump trying to work when you activate the washers? This info would help diagnose if you're facing the same problem I had. Quick tip: Before taking it in, check your fuse box, though in my case it wasn't the fuse, it's worth checking as it's an easy fix if that's the cause.

Thanks for the detailed response! I'm at 110,756 KM and had my last service about 2 months ago. Actually, I can hear a faint buzzing when I try to use the washers, but nothing comes out. Checked the washer fluid level and it's full. I'll definitely check the fuse box as you suggested before taking it to the workshop. Really hoping it's just a connection issue like yours and not something more serious with the pump itself. I'd much rather pay for a simple fix than a full pump replacement. Did your wipers start working normally right after they fixed the connection?

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details about your X7. Your symptoms sound exactly like what I experienced with my X5, that faint buzzing noise is what I heard too. And yes, to answer your question, both my wipers and washer system started working perfectly right after they fixed the connection. The auto-wiper function kicked back in immediately as well. The mechanic explained that when there's a wiring issue, the car's computer gets confused and disables some functions as a precaution. Since you mentioned you're hearing that buzzing sound, I'm even more convinced it's the same connection problem I had. The pump is trying to work but can't properly activate because of the faulty connection. In my case, the wire had gotten loose and slightly corroded at the connector. Just to add, while checking the fuse box is good (definitely do that first), don't be discouraged if that's not it. My fuses were all fine, but the real issue was still pretty straightforward to fix. The fact that this started happening after your recent service is interesting, might be worth mentioning to the workshop as sometimes these connections can get disturbed during routine maintenance. Keep us posted on what you find out! Always curious to hear if others have the same fix as I did.

Thanks everyone for your help! Just wanted to update the thread, you were all spot on! I checked the fuse box first, but all fuses were good. Took it to the workshop yesterday, and guess what? It was indeed a connection issue, almost exactly like what you described. The mechanic found a corroded connector near the pump, cleaned it up, and secured it properly. Total bill came to 140 Euro including diagnosis. Everything's working perfectly now, both the washers and the auto-wiper function are back to normal. Such a relief it wasn't the pump itself! Funny thing is, they mentioned these connection issues are pretty common in newer BMWs, especially after routine maintenance when things get moved around a bit. Really grateful for the advice about checking the fuses first, saved some diagnostic time at the workshop. Thanks again for sharing your experience. It really helped me explain the symptoms better to the mechanic and know what to expect. Always good to learn from others who've dealt with the same issues!