I had my cracked MINI windshield replaced 2 weeks ago by Safelite. Yesterday was the 1st day that I drove in the rain and my rain sensing wipers did not come on automatically. They were working fine before the windshield replacement.

Several hours later after it had stopped raining (no water on the windshield), the wipers came on automatically and worked until I switched them off. I have called Safelite and they are coming tomorrow to check things out.

Has anyone had this problem with their rain sensor after having a replacement windshield installed? Thanks for all responses.

PS I verified that Safelite used the OEM adhesive pad to attach the rain sensor back onto the new windshield.

 

Yeah. It happened to me with a Pilkington windshield. The installer came back the next day and replaced it with another one which worked. He said the sensor is sensitive to, among other things, the color of the glass, and variations which may not be noticeable upon installation will prevent operation.

Make sure that you splash some water on the windshield before you let him leave, just to make sure it works.

 

Anytime you replace the windshield, make sure they install new A-pillar covers. Otherwise, they will fly off when you least expect it. Not if, but when...

ken

 

I'll make sure, but I need to know...what are A-pillar covers?

Thanks.

 

It's the plastic trim/cover between the windshield and side windows (see here). The clips on this trim are weakened when the trim is removed to replace the windshield - when re-used, the weakened clips fail and the trim goes flying off.

cheers,
ken

 

So I need just the covers, not the molded parts? Or do I need both pieces for both sides? I want to ask for the correct parts...

Thanks.

 

Just the covers.

ken

 

Wish I'd found this thread sooner... now, to call Safelite...

 

I agree. I've had to replace both windshields on my old and new mini and both times the cracked both sets of 'A' pillar covers.

 

How much does it cost to replace the "A" piller covers? I only need one replaced. The top 1/3 of it is missing on my passenger side. Thanks!

 

$60-$70 for the part and the installation pricing will vary - shop around for it!