Headlamp Washers - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

SWP · 28th March 2006, 19:40

Do US models come standard with headlamp washers? If so, how do I turn them on? Or do they just spray whenever they feel like it? Any ideas?

I also have noticed that the windshield wipers are too fast, even in its slowest mode. And the rain sensor is too sensitive. Any way I can slow down the wipers further? Any way I can make the rain sensor just a little bit less sensitive.

As I type this, I am thinking about Jeremy Clarkson's discourse on whether he wants the light to stay on 36 seconds, 37 seconds or 38 seconds.

AGS · 28th March 2006, 19:52

Quote:

Originally Posted by SWP

Do US models come standard with headlamp washers? If so, how do I turn them on? Or do they just spray whenever they feel like it? Any ideas?

The headlamp washers activate something like every 4th or 5th time you use the windshield washers, but only if your headlights are on.

Beamer_usa · 28th March 2006, 22:27

The sensativity of the auto wipers, I'm sure can be programmed to your liking from $tealer. Personalized comfort features.

spatterso · 28th March 2006, 22:40

Doesn't the adjustment wheel on the stalk decrease/increase the sensitivity of the rain sensor??

bavarian · 28th March 2006, 22:58

Headlight washer activation is not adjustable (unlike intermittent wipers). They are supposed to come on every third time you use the windshield washers if the lights are on. Mine had a problem as they came on every time, but the dealer reprogrammed them.

LJM5 · 29th March 2006, 02:42

Don't know about the headlamp washers, but yes, the rain-sensor wipers just plain SUCK. They are WAY too fast, even at the lightest setting. They are also, way too random, as they'll do three quick swipes, even if the rain has nearly stopped, then stop, then swipe, then stop, then pause....wipe, wipe, wipe, pause..... wipe....pause....wipe, wipe, wipe, wipe, wipe...ahhhhhhhh!!!

They should let you control the pace, period.

EM5PWR · 29th March 2006, 04:34

Quote:

Originally Posted by LJM5

Don't know about the headlamp washers, but yes, the rain-sensor wipers just plain SUCK. They are WAY too fast, even at the lightest setting. They are also, way too random, as they'll do three quick swipes, even if the rain has nearly stopped, then stop, then swipe, then stop, then pause....wipe, wipe, wipe, pause..... wipe....pause....wipe, wipe, wipe, wipe, wipe...ahhhhhhhh!!!

They should let you control the pace, period.

i kinda like the wipe..pause...wipe,wipe,wipe thing..it's different.

pvr · 29th March 2006, 04:36

Quote:

Originally Posted by spatterso

Doesn't the adjustment wheel on the stalk decrease/increase the sensitivity of the rain sensor??

This is correct. I've not had a problem with the rain sensor causing irregular or incorrect swiping, unless dirt gets on the windshield. Spraying/cleaning the windshield usually restores reasonable function.

gh342000 · 29th March 2006, 04:44

It is raining today in Southern California, and I was just thinking of posting a thread about how awkward the intermittent wipers are. My 2003 M5, when dialed down work perfect, but the new M5 has a terrible sensor.

A little water gets on the windshield and wipers go ape sh$t flipping back and forth widly then they stop, windshield starts to accumulate water to the point where you can't see, then the wipers wake up and go ape sh$t again. No rhyme or reason with these sensors.

Kuma · 29th March 2006, 09:32

I have also had issues with the speed. I will call my buddy at BMW and see what the options are.

Wayward · 29th March 2006, 10:45

Re: the rain sensor...

Out of curiousity, has anyone tried treating their windshield with Rain-X or other silicone treatment to see if it helps ?

NBM5 · 29th March 2006, 12:15

i have my headlights set on auto. everytime i hit my windshield washers, the headlights spray also.

i nearly giggle when i see my funky windshield wipers going crazy like some freaked out broken arms!!!