Dead Wipers on Audi Q3: Switch Issue or Something Else

Had the same problem with my 2015 Audi Q5. The windshield wipers suddenly stopped working during a routine drive. The initial diagnosis pointed to a faulty wiper switch, but after thorough inspection, it turned out to be a damaged wiring harness connection near the steering column. The car wipers issue was more serious than expected because the wiring had deteriorated due to constant movement and heat exposure. The repair required partial disassembly of the steering column to access and replace the affected section of the wiring harness. This type of issue is fairly common in VAG vehicles from that generation. Key findings from the repair: Wiper switch itself was functional, Main wiring harness showed visible wear at connection points, Several pins in the connector were corroded, System required complete reset after repair Worth noting that intermittent wiper blade operation before complete failure is often a warning sign of electrical issues. Getting proper diagnosis with specialized VAG diagnostic tools is crucial, as general scanners might miss specific fault codes related to the wiper system. This is definitely not a DIY repair due to the complexity of accessing and replacing the wiring components properly.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the wiring harness issue. This really helps explain my problem as I am also experiencing similar symptoms with the wipers and steering column area. Would you mind sharing the final repair cost? Also curious if you have had any other electrical problems since the fix, like with the turn signal or cruise control? I want to make sure I budget correctly and address any potential related issues while the mechanic has everything opened up.

Glad to report back on my 2015 Audi Q5 repair outcome. The windshield wipers have worked flawlessly since the fix. The mechanic found a damaged connection near the steering column, just as suspected. Total cost came to 95 Euro for the wiring repair, which was much more reasonable than replacing the entire wiper switch assembly. No electrical issues since the repair, both the wiper motor and all steering column controls function perfectly. The turn signals and cruise control remained unaffected throughout, as the problem was isolated to the wiper circuit connection. Looking back, getting the proper diagnosis was key. Some shops might rush to replace the entire wiper switch when often its just a matter of fixing the electrical connections. The mechanic mentioned these connection problems are a known weak point in the wiring harness design. For reference, signs that point to this specific issue include: Wipers working intermittently before total failure, No response when using the wiper switch, Normal function of other steering column controls

Thanks everyone for the helpful insights. Just got back from the mechanic and wanted to share my experience. The wiring harness was indeed the culprit, just as suggested. My mechanic found corroded connections near the steering column, similar to what others described. The repair took about 2 hours and cost 120 Euro, which included testing and resetting the system. The car wipers are now working perfectly. Much better than the 400 Euro quote I got for a complete wiper switch replacement at the first shop. Had to share that the wiring was in worse shape than expected, with visible wear marks where the harness flexes. The mechanic showed me the damaged spots and explained how the constant movement affects these connections over time. Best decision was getting a second opinion. Now I know to watch for any intermittent wiper blade operation as an early warning sign. Really appreciate all the advice that helped me avoid an unnecessary and expensive part replacement.