Windshield Wiper Problem - Please help!

[m3f_rbc827]

My 97 M3 has been having problems with the windshield wipers recently. They stop by themselves while I have them on. I have to turn the car off for a little bit and then they work again once I start the car. It's a random occurance.



It happens on all 3 settings (Intermident, low, and high). Sometimes when it is on Intermident, the blades will start acting like they are on low and then stop.



I can't figure it out. Is it the windshield motor? A bad relay? Loose connection in the stalk?



Anyone have any ideas or has this happen to you?



Thanks!

[m3f_brokeazz]

most likely the windshield wiper relay.

your motor and switch seems to be working according to what you mentioned.

[m3f_Sirius]

I would start with the relay.

[m3f_rbc827]

I found a writeup where the guy had the exact same problem I had. He ended up removing the Wiper control module behind the dash, removed the cover of both relays on the circuit board and found one of the contacts to be covered in carbon. He cleaned the connection and then reinstalled the module. He said he didn't have any problems with it after that.



So I did the same thing last night and low and behold, I had carbon build up on one of the relay contacts. Removing the black cover of the relays is a little difficult. I ended up using a small blow torch torwards the base of the relay to warm up the glue. Then I pryed the cover off with some pliers and was able to get to the contacts and clean them.



Today it rained on my way to work and I never had a problem with the wipers. I plan to leave it the way it is for now to see if my problem returns. Evently I will end up buying a new module which cost around $75.



Thanks for your help.