BMW Z3: Windshield Washer & Auto Wiper System Failure Fix

Hey there! I have some experience working on cars as a hobby mechanic. I faced a very similar issue with my 2002 BMW Z4 last summer. The symptoms were exactly the same, washer system completely dead. After struggling with it for a few days, I took it to my regular workshop. Turned out the cable connection to the washer pump was corroded and the relay was faulty. The total repair cost me 165 Euro, but it's been working perfectly since then. I'd really like to help more, but could you share some additional info about your Z3? Things like: Have you checked the washer fluid level? Does the pump make any noise when you try to use it? Are there any warning lights on the dash? By the way, I also owned a BMW M3 before, so I'm quite familiar with these systems. Let me know these details, and I might be able to suggest some specific troubleshooting steps.

Thanks for the detailed response! My Z3 has 151335 KM on the clock and had its last service 3 months ago. About your questions, the fluid level is full, and I can't hear any pump noise when pressing the stalk. No warning lights on the dash either. Interesting about the corroded connection and relay, that actually makes a lot of sense given the age of these cars. Did your mechanic mention where exactly the corrosion was? I've been pretty good with maintenance, but electrical gremlins can be tricky to track down. Really appreciate the help from a fellow BMW owner!

Hey again! So glad to help another BMW enthusiast. You know, after reading your follow-up about no pump noise, it's sounding even more similar to what I experienced with my Z4. In my case, the corrosion was actually at the connector near the washer fluid reservoir, where the wiring meets the pump. It was pretty well hidden behind the wheel well liner. The mechanic showed me the corroded part, it was all green and crusty. The lack of pump noise is exactly what I experienced too, which makes sense since the electrical connection was basically shot. Since you mentioned having it serviced recently, maybe check if they did anything near the washer system? Sometimes these connections can get bumped or stressed during other work. In my case, I initially thought it was related to the headlight washers too, but it turned out to be much simpler. Given your symptoms match mine so closely, I'd bet you're dealing with the same issue. It's a common weak point in these older BMWs. The good news is it's not a terribly expensive fix once you know what you're looking for. Want me to share some photos of where my corrosion was? Might help you or your mechanic pinpoint it faster.

Thanks so much for all this info! That's super helpful, especially knowing where to look for the corrosion. Would definitely appreciate those photos if you don't mind sharing them. You've actually made me feel a lot better about this, I was worried it might be something major with the whole system. Going to check behind the wheel well liner myself first before heading to the shop. Come to think of it, they did have to remove the liner during the last service to check something else, so your theory about the connection getting disturbed makes total sense. Really appreciate you taking the time to help out with your experience. It's great having input from someone who's actually dealt with the same issue. I'll let you know what I find when I take a look this weekend!