(for some reason) i paid for the autowipers for my '06 MC.

my complaint with these wipers is like my wife's about me: strangely insensitive.

the front wipers particularly, when they're on the auto setting, just don't seem to notice the rain very well. the rear wiper does much better. but what's the good of seeing better out the back than out the front? must i drive in reverse whenever it drizzles?

is this just the way the things are? are they, like me, just born insensitive, and too bad for whoever went for them? might there be some cleaning that could be done on the infrared or however it senses rain on the windshield? might there be a way of adjusting it (say, at the dealer) so that the same amount of rain causes the wipers to go more frequently?

 

Have you made sure that the windshield is clean up top? That is where the sensor is and it's possible that it's covered with dirt. Did you perhaps have a tint bar or sticker installed on you windshield?

My auto wipers seem to work fine, the do go into slow mode when you stop, that can be annoying.

 

That's odd... my auto-sensing wipers seem to be very sensitive. If anything, they wipe too frequently.

I'd rather have that than your problem, of course. Sounds like a safety issue you have there so I wouldn't hesitate to contact the dealership's service dept if I were you.

 

Just an FYI, the rear wiper is not auto-sensing. It is on a fixed delay all the time.

There is a software setting for the auto wipers. Check with you dealer and have them set it to the more sensitive setting.

 

Bought my 04 MCS used and it was loaded...inc the auto wipers.

If I can't tell when I need to be using the wipers, I shouldn't have a license! If I were buying a new one...I would definately not purchase this option....to make it worse...check out the $$ Mini wants for a replacement windshield w/ auto wiper sensor...would buy a PPG anyway!

I also would not use my rear wiper unless I were completely blinded...every bit of dirt possible collects on the boot and the rear glass! Luckily my Mini rides out bad weather in the garage, since it is my 2nd "funmobile" Only been caught in the rain once during a run...freak t-boomer! The Uglymobile (Element) gets the hard work!

 

Both my wife and I have the rain-sensitive wipers on our '06 'S' Cabrios, and in both cars, the sensitivity is just about perfect. That's the only reason I think the auto wipers are worth it - on our cars, we can literally turn it on and forget it. If it were too slow to react, or too eager, then I can see how it would be more trouble than it's worth.

Scott

 

There is a 'more sensitive' and 'less sensitive' setting you can have the dealer program. I actually had mine set to 'less sensitive'.


I used to think it was a goofy idea as well. But in my area, we often get little drizzles that require sporadic and infrequent use of the wipers. COULD I flip them on now and again? Sure. I could also roll down my windows by hand, turn the key in the lock, sing to myself, and any number of other things that I don't have to do because of features the MINI has.

 

Granted...different strokes....for different folks...I live in Nevada where it hardly ever rains so I am Lucky. If I lived in Fla or Wash. State,...I might think differently. If I get a quick sprinkle, I just flip the wiper stalk....but I do understand wanting certain luxuries....
Personally, I love having heated seats and the sunroof, auto dimming rear view mirror, the mini computer etc.....which I guess lots of people do not need...that is what makes customizing the vehicle fun....