The rain stopped, but the wipers on our 2008 Mini wouldn't. Neither the wipers nor the washers would respond to the switch. I removed the fuse under the hood and they stopped. I re-installed the fuse and now nothing works, front or rear. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. :

 

Bugger. First thought would be a bad switch, but it's an expensive piece for part swapping. If you have a known good switch (aka someone else nearby with a MINI) that would be the best first step. Not sure if the wipers utilize the BCM (Body Control Module, aka computer.)

 

Thanks Eric, I'm leaning toward the computer module. Since I listed the posting about the wipers, the directionals have ceased to return after making a turn. I think the return mechanism is electronic as iv'e never felt any of the customary mechanical clicking when pulling out of a turn. Multiple malfunctions like these point toward computer computer rebellion. What's next.

 

try disconnecting the battery for about 10 minutes (just disconnect the negative side), then reconnect.

The will cause a sort of a 're-boot' of the general control unit, and has cleared weird electrical faults for others. (yes the wipers do go thru the GCU)

Also - the GCU lives in the outboard side panel of the pass' compartment. This location has been known to be subject to leaks from above especially if you have the sunroof. At a minimum check the carpet for dampness and consider pulling the trim panel for a looksee behind (sadly there is no 'door' or access panel - you need to pull a little trim . .)

 

Thanks Capt_bj, i'll give it a try and let you know how it turns out.

 

Well, I tried disconnecting the battery negative terminal. The wipers came on again and would not respond to the control switch as before. Front, rear and washers. I had to remove the fuse to get them stopped. The directionals work, but do not recover after a turn, same as before. The computer area appears to be dry. Could the computer be at fault for all?