With the Audi A2, problems with the windscreen wipers occur regularly due to defective motors, control units and especially mechanical play in the wiper mechanism. This means the arms are difficult to adjust and sometimes hit the windscreen or paintwork. The original control switches also become sticky over time. Sound familiar? Read on to find out what causes these faults and how to tackle them.
Electrical problems with the windscreen wiper motor
The windscreen wiper motor of the Audi A2 becomes defective over time. You then no longer hear any sound when you activate the wipers, or you notice a burning smell. Blown fuses occur regularly, often due to overload when the wipers are stuck in snow or ice. Check the fuse box first before replacing the motor. Is the fuse still OK? Then the problem is often with the motor itself or with the switch.
Defective switches usually show internal wear. The pins in the connectors corrode, which disrupts the contact. Test the switch by listening for clicking sounds when you switch between settings. Hear nothing? Then the switch needs to be replaced. Some owners report that cleaning the connectors already helps. In many cases, replacement is necessary.
‘ In cases of severe play, replacing the mechanism is the only solution. ’
Mechanical play causes irregular movement
The biggest issue with the Audi A2 is mechanical play in the windscreen wiper mechanism. This play is caused by worn bearing bushes, linkages and arms. As a result, the wipers move irregularly across the windscreen. They squeak or hit the edge of the glass or the paintwork. Switch the motor off. Move the arms manually to test this. Do you notice wobbling or feel resistance? Then there is play.
The play makes it almost impossible to adjust the arms properly. Even after correct adjustment, the arms continue to move outside the desired area. This causes scratches on the windscreen or paintwork. Rusted bearing bushes make the problem worse, especially on older models that have been parked outside. Preventive maintenance helps. In cases of severe play, replacing the mechanism is the only solution.
Why do the windscreen wipers squeak?
Squeaking windscreen wipers often point to too much pressure or play in the mechanism. Worn rubbers, dirt and an incorrect angle of the wiper arm cause friction. The rubbers then no longer sit properly against the windscreen. This grates and squeaks. An oily windscreen or a build-up of dirt also makes the problem worse. Clean the windscreen and the rubbers regularly with water and vinegar to prevent this.
With mechanical play in the arms, squeaking also occurs because the blades move across the glass with varying pressure. Carefully bend the arms to correct the angle. There is a risk of making the problem worse. It is better to replace the blades or the mechanism if the squeaking continues.
How to reduce the play
Check the bearing bushes and linkages to reduce play. Move the arms by hand and pay attention to where the play is. Often the bearing bushes are worn or rusted. Replace these parts. This requires technical knowledge and often removal of the entire mechanism. For DIYers this is a challenge.
With light play you can sometimes reduce it by tightening the bolts of the arms. This sometimes helps. Make sure you do not overtighten them, otherwise you will damage the thread. Does the play remain? Then replacement of the windscreen wiper mechanism is necessary. This takes time and requires precision, because the new arms have to be adjusted correctly.
‘ “This makes correct adjustment virtually impossible without first eliminating the play.” ’
Adjusting the arms correctly
You can in principle adjust the arms of the Audi A2 yourself. Because of the mechanical play this is difficult. When at rest, the arms must lie against the bottom of the windscreen without touching the paintwork. Loosen the nut under the arm. Position the arm correctly. Then tighten the nut again. Test the wipers at low speed to check whether they stay within the desired area.
However, because of the play, the arms often continue to move outside the adjusted area. This makes correct adjustment virtually impossible without first eliminating the play. Also make sure that the arms do not collide with each other while wiping. With too much play, this risk is greater. Are you unsure about the correct adjustment? Have it checked at a garage.
Cost of replacing the windscreen wiper motor
The cost of replacing the windscreen wiper motor on the Audi A2 ranges between €150 and €400. This depends on whether you choose an original or aftermarket part. Labour is added on top, often between €100 and €200. The total cost therefore lies between €250 and €600. If you replace the motor yourself, you save on the labour. Only replace the motor if you have experience with automotive electrics.
The motor is often located behind the dashboard or under the bonnet. This requires removal of other parts. Always disconnect the battery first before working on the wiring. Follow the instructions in the Audi A2 maintenance manual to avoid damage. If in doubt, it is wiser to have the replacement carried out by a mechanic.
Replacing sticky switches
The original control switches for the windscreen wipers often become sticky after years of use. This is due to degradation of the rubber or plastic coating. The switches feel greasy and leave residue on your fingers. Cleaning helps temporarily, but does not solve the problem. Replacement is the only long-term solution.
New switches are available from Audi dealers or via online parts shops. The cost ranges between €50 and €150. Replace the switch by removing the steering column trim panel. This is relatively simple and usually only requires basic tools. Make sure you order the correct switch for your year of manufacture, as there are differences between versions.
‘ This points to motor damage. ’
Practical diagnostic steps for DIYers
Check the fuses in the fuse box. The ignition must remain switched off. Replace blown fuses. Then activate the wipers to test the motor. Listen for a rotating sound or clicking. Hear nothing? This points to motor damage. Voltage problems are also possible.
Switch the motor off to measure mechanical play. Move the arms by hand. Wobbling or resistance points to worn bearings or linkages. Also inspect the blades for cracks, distortion or dirt. Clean them with a microfibre cloth, water and vinegar. Finally, check the fluid level in the washer reservoir and top up if necessary.
Preventive tips to avoid problems
Regular maintenance prevents many windscreen wiper problems. Check the blades at least once a year for wear. Replace them if they are cracked or hardened. Clean the windscreen and rubbers regularly to prevent a build-up of dirt. Carefully defrost frozen wipers and never force them. This puts a strain on the motor.
Check the connectors for corrosion and clean them if necessary. With intermittent faults, test the switch for wear. Do you notice play in the arms? Then have it checked quickly before it causes damage to the windscreen or paintwork. A garage will measure the play and advise on replacement of parts.
Safety if a fault occurs while driving
If the windscreen wipers fail during rain or snow, switch on your hazard warning lights immediately and reduce your speed. Look for a safe place to stop. Do not continue driving without good visibility. This increases the risk of accidents. Check on the spot whether the fuse is still intact and whether the motor responds.
If you cannot get the wipers working again, call for help and wait for a recovery truck or mobile mechanic. Driving without working wipers in bad weather is life-threatening. It can also lead to fines. Prevent this by regularly checking whether the wipers are working properly, especially before long journeys.
On the Carnews website you will find more information about common car problems, maintenance tips and technical explanations for various models. Regular checks keep your car in top condition and help you spot problems at an early stage.
Frequently asked questions
You can recognise mechanical play by, with the windscreen wiper motor switched off, carefully moving the wiper arms up and down and sideways by hand: noticeable wobble or a loose feel indicates wear in bearings or linkages. While in use, watch for irregular movement, missing parts of the sweep or squeaking/scraping noises, which may indicate excessive play. The first step is to test the arms one by one by hand and feel whether there is play at the pivot point or at the base on the spindle. Then visually check for rust, bent parts or loose nuts and, if necessary, gently tighten them.
Common mechanical causes of windscreen wiper faults are play in the wiper arms and wear or rust in bearing bushes. Worn or dried-out rubbers and blades cause extra friction, squeaking and irregular wiping. Worn linkages in the wiper mechanism can also cause the arms to wobble or even seize.
You can often remedy mechanical play in the windscreen wiper system by replacing worn wiper arms, bearings or linkages and then correctly readjusting the arms. It also helps to check the connections for corrosion and loose bolts and clean or tighten them where necessary. If the play persists after these checks or if the mechanism seizes, it is advisable to call in a professional. Also contact a garage immediately if you noticeably have less visibility in the rain due to poorly functioning wipers.
If you ignore mechanical play in your windscreen wipers, wiping can become irregular or even (partially) fail, which severely reduces your visibility in the rain and endangers road safety. Due to the play, the arms can start to jerk or catch, causing extra wear to the bearings, linkages and the wiper mechanism. Worn or sloppily moving wipers can leave streaks and eventually scratch the windscreen. In the long run, the wiper motor can also become overloaded and fail, making the repair considerably more expensive.