Q7 Wiper System Dead: Switch Malfunction Suspected

I experienced this exact issue on my 2010 Audi A6 3.0T. The complete failure of the wipers turned out to be more than just a faulty switch. After thorough diagnosis, the problem was traced to a corroded wiring harness connection between the steering column and the wiper motor. The rain sensor was functioning correctly, but the signals were not reaching the motor due to this connection issue. The repair involved: 1. Removing the steering column cover 2. Replacing the damaged wiring harness 3. Cleaning the wiper motor connections 4. Testing the turn signal functionality as it shares some wiring paths This was a serious electrical issue that required specialized diagnostic equipment. If left unaddressed, it could have led to additional electrical problems affecting other systems. The repair took about 4 hours at the shop. A failing wiper motor would have different symptoms, typically making grinding noises before complete failure. Since your wipers show no response at all, focusing on the electrical connections and switch assembly would be the logical starting point.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the wiper issue. My Audi Q7 had similar problems and the wiring harness also needed replacement. The symptoms matched exactly, no response at all from the windshield wipers regardless of speed settings. The turn signal and cruise control remained functional though, which helped narrow down the problem. How much did the repair end up costing you? Just wondering if prices have changed much since I had mine fixed. Also, have you noticed any other electrical gremlins pop up since the repair was done?

The wiper switch issue turned out to be much simpler than initially expected. After taking it to the mechanic, they found a loose cable connection near the switch assembly that was causing the communication failure. Total repair cost was 95 Euro, which covered diagnostic time and fixing the faulty connection, no need for a complete wiring harness replacement like I first thought. The windshield wipers now work perfectly at all speeds, and the rain sensor is responding correctly. No other electrical problems have surfaced in the months since the repair. Looking back, I probably worried too much about potential extensive wiring issues, when it was just a basic connection problem that needed attention. This experience taught me that sometimes what seems like a major electrical fault with the wipers can have a straightforward fix. The mechanic mentioned these connection issues are fairly common in older models where vibration can gradually loosen crucial components.

After reading about similar wiper issues, I took my Q7 to the shop last week. Turns out both of us were dealing with wiring problems, but mine was more extensive. The mechanic found severe corrosion in the wiring harness running through the steering column, plus the wiper motor connections were completely shot. The total repair came to 780 Euro, which included: New wiring harness installation, Wiper motor cleaning and reconnection, Labor for removing/reinstalling the steering column, System diagnostic testing More expensive than your repair, but still better than the 1200 Euro quote I got from the dealership. The windshield wipers work perfectly now, and the shop even updated the error codes in the system. No electrical issues since the fix, and the mechanic said this should prevent similar problems for years to come. The whole job took about 5 hours, but at least I know everything was done right. Much better than trying cheaper fixes that might have failed again in a few months.