Rain sensor
Fig. 80
Windshield wiper lever: Adjusting rain sensor 1.
Fig. 81
Inside the front windshield above the inside mirror: Sensitive rain sensor surface.
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Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
When switched on, the rain sensor automatically shortens or lengthens the time between wiping
intervals depending on how hard it is raining
⇒
. The rain sensor's sensitivity can be adjusted
manually. Manual wiping (vehicles without rain sensors),
Windshield wiper lever
.
Push the lever into the desired position
⇒
fig. 80
:
(A)
Rain sensor off (windshield wiper lever home position).
(B)
Rain sensor active – automatic wiping as needed.
(1)
Adjusting the sensitivity of the rain sensor:
– Move switch to the right – high sensitivity.
– Move switch to the left – low sensitivity.
After switching the ignition off and back on again, the rain sensor stays on and works again with the
wiper lever in position
(B)
.
Possible reasons for changes in the way the rain sensor works
The rain sensor may misread what is happening in the
detection zone of its sensitive rain-sensor
surface
⇒
fig. 81
(arrow) and not work for a number of reasons, which include:
x
Worn out wiper blades: Worn out wiper blades may leave a film of water or wiping streaks; this can
cause the wipers to run longer, to wipe more often, or to wipe continuously at high speed.
x
Insects: Insects hitting the sensor may trigger the wipers.
x
Salt streaks: Salt streaks on the windshield from winter driving can cause wiping more often or
continuously on glass that is almost dry.
x
Dirt: Caked-on dust, wax, any other buildup on the windshield (lotus effect), or car-wash detergent
residue can lower the rain sensor's sensitivity and cause it to react too slowly or not at all.
