[OG Style]

My rain sensor isn't reading correctly. It will constantly cycle every 5 seconds when the windshield is dry. I've already done calibration and even switched out the sensor. The problem is either the windshield or gel pad. The car has done this since I bought it. I've gotten a new gel pad and I was wondering if anyone has any tips tor doing the job. It's a 2011 328xi.

[gbalthrop]

Originally Posted by OG Style

My rain sensor isn't reading correctly. It will constantly cycle every 5 seconds when the windshield is dry. I've already done calibration and even switched out the sensor. The problem is either the windshield or gel pad. The car has done this since I bought it. I've gotten a new gel pad and I was wondering if anyone has any tips tor doing the job. It's a 2011 328xi.

I have NOT replaced the RLS or gel pad, but I wonder what diagnostics you have run, & what is happening. Questions:

1) I don't understand what you mean: "It will constantly cycle every 5 seconds" -- what is cycling? The wipers are wiping every 5 seconds with dry windshield? Even with everything OFF, including the button on end of wiper stalk OFF, & its LED OFF?

2) Make/Model of your Scan Tool or diagnostic software (INPA/ISTA)? Do you have INPA? That is best diagnostic software I know of to see what signals are being received. The Wiper Stalk position & buttons are actually received by the JBE module (via K-CAN bus) & the Status or Live Data of those signals can be viewed when connected to JBE Module. The JBE controls wiper function.

3) Do all other functions of the Wiper Stalk work correctly?

4) Does Green LED at button on Wiper Stalk light/go out when button is pushed?

5) Does frequency of wipe change when rotary button on Wiper Stalk is moved?

6) Do you have to pull fuse F50 to prevent wiper function?

Your Wiper Stalk (or button on stalk), or the K-CAN communication between the Steering Wheel Cluster & JBE may be faulty, if your wipers do a single wipe every 5 seconds. Please let us know the details.
George

[OG Style]

1. The wipers will cycle every 5 seconds when automatic is turned on, even if the windshield is dry. I tried another sensor and it does the same thing. I held the other sensor directly against the glass and did a calibration and the wipers worked correctly. I think there is micro bubbles in my current gel pad and that's what's causing the problem.

2. I used Protool on my phone and INPA. The wiper stalk functions correctly and live data reads correctly

3. Yes

4. Yes

5. Yes

6. No

[The Nightman]

I had air bubbles interfering with my RLS after a windshield replacement. I tried aftermarket pads but it was impossible to install them without air bubbles. I ended up using silicone RTV and it mostly worked - there are some tiny bubbles after the silicone cured but the RLS doesn't seem to effected. I used an old tube of silicone so that might've been my problem.

https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/...nt-fix.615032/

[OG Style]

Originally Posted by The Nightman

I had air bubbles interfering with my RLS after a windshield replacement. I tried aftermarket pads but it was impossible to install them without air bubbles. I ended up using silicone RTV and it mostly worked - there are some tiny bubbles after the silicone cured but the RLS doesn't seem to effected. I used an old tube of silicone so that might've been my problem.

https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/...nt-fix.615032/

Thabks. I have 4 tries with the pads. I don't think I can make it any worse.

[OG Style]

I need to update what I said. The wipers automatically cycle every 10 seconds with a dry windshield. I do get a fault saying that the sensor isn't calibrated. That all goes away and the function correct when I hold the sensor directly on the windshield and calibrate it.

[OG Style]

I got mine installed and calibrated. It's working better but I keep getting bubbles when applying it. I used four gel pads and couldn't get the bubbles out. There has to be a trick in installing it but I cant figure it out.

[Mike K]

I wonder if a cleaning spray like 409 etc might help if applied first? I use that when tooling caulk and it makes smoother results. Or soapy water? Just guessing here.

[NZE90]

Originally Posted by Mike K

I wonder if a cleaning spray like 409 etc might help if applied first? I use that when tooling caulk and it makes smoother results. Or soapy water? Just guessing here.

I was going to say the same thing. Window tinters spray soapy water on the windows before applying the tint film, so they can get it into position on the window, so maybe the same principle might work in this case too?

[OG Style]

It's worth trying. The gel is super sticky and you only get one chance. I can get one side instead without bubbles. The problem happens when you try to install the sensor to the windshield.