All functions are initiated by means of a multi-function switch which is operated by the wiper lever on the right of the steering column.
The windshield wiper motor has 2 speeds and a limit switch for the park position. It is controlled by the multi-function switch on the steering column via the windshield wiper relay and the CTM.
After switching on the ignition (position II) the following five wiper functions are available:
Wiper lever in the OFF position
If the wiper lever is moved from any other position to the OFF position, then the windshield wiper motor continues to run at slow speed until it reaches the park position, where it stops. This is effected through a second circuit via the limit switch. After the windshield wiper is switched off, it is supplied with voltage through this circuit until the limit switch breaks the circuit to the windshield wiper motor via the windshield wiper relay (normally closed contact) and the multi-function switch.
Wiper lever in the ONCE position
Push the wiper lever downwards and release. It returns automatically to the OFF position. The wiper performs one wipe cycle at a slow speed. The current flows via the multi-function switch to the wiper motor.
Wiper lever in the SLOW position
Push the wiper lever two steps upwards. The wiper operates at a slow speed. The current flows via the multi-function switch to the wiper motor.
Wiper lever in the FAST position
Push the wiper lever three steps upwards. The wiper operates at a fast speed. The current flows via the multi-function switch to the wiper motor.
Wiper lever in the INTERMITTENT position
Push the wiper lever one step upwards. The wiper performs single wiping movements at a slow speed with pauses between them. Depending on the model, the wiping time interval is either set at the fixed setting of 9 seconds or one of six steps can be selected by turning the knob at the end of the wiper lever (position 1 = short interval. Position 6 = long interval).
The multi-function switch transmits a 12 V signal via the normally closed contact of the washer switch to the CTM which periodically activates the wiper relay at intervals of nine seconds or as set by the selected wiper delay interval (depending on trim level). The current flows via the wiper relay (normally open contact) and the multi-function switch to the wiper motor.
Windshield Washer
WARNING:Washer fluid contains the poisonous substance methanol. Refer to the Safety Regulations.
CAUTION:Operate the washer with the headlamps switched on for a maximum of 10 seconds and not with an empty washer reservoir.
The windshield washer comprises the following components:
- Windshield washer reservoir, below the front left-hand fender
- Windshield washer pump, on the outside of the windshield washer reservoir
- Two adjustable windshield washer nozzles on the hood.
There are two available functions depending upon wiper operation:
Wiper lever in the OFF or INTERMITTENT position
The windshield wipers and the windshield washer pump operate so long as the wiper lever is pulled towards the steering wheel. Releasing the wiper lever immediately switches off the windshield washer pump. The windshield wipers perform two or three more wipe cycles before they return to intermittent operation (INTERMITTENT position) or stop in the park position (OFF position).
Wiper lever in the SLOW or FAST position
The washer system operates together with the wipers so long as the wiper lever is pulled towards the steering wheel. The current flows from the multi-function switch via the washer pump to the CTM and the washer switch. When activated, the washer switch makes the ground connection.
Heated washer nozzles (if fitted)
The washer nozzles are heated continuously after turning the ignition on (position II).
Rear Wiper
The rear wiper comprises the following components:
- Rear wiper motor
- Rear wiper arm
- Wiper blade
- Wiper delay relay, below the front right-hand crash padding
- One nozzle
Wipers and rear window washer (if present)
Press the wiper lever towards the instrument panel to switch on the rear wiper. The system operates so long as the lever is pressed. The lever automatically returns to its rest position when released. The wash water for the rear window washer is taken from the same reservoir as for the windshield washer (see windshield washer) and is also pumped by the windshield washer pump.
In this case the washer pump operates in the opposite direction of rotation to the direction for washing the windshield.
The current flows from the central junction box via the washer pump to the washer switch. The washer switch makes the ground connection in its active state.
Headlamp washer
CAUTION:Operate the headlamp washer for a maximum of 10 seconds and not with an empty reservoir.
The headlamp washer comprises the following parts:
- Headlamp wash pump, on the outside of the washer reservoir
- Headlamp wash relay, underneath the instrument panel, on the left-hand side
- Nozzles (two)
The headlamp wash system runs when the windshield washer and the headlamps are switched on at the same time (main beam or dipped beam). The system is controlled electrically by the windshield washer relay. This only switches if it receives a voltage simultaneously from the light switch and from the windshield washer switch.
Washer fluid warning light (if fitted)
This consists of the following components:
- Washer fluid warning light (in the instrument panel)
- Switch in the washer reservoir
- Auxiliary warning system module (in the center of the instrument panel)
The warning light indicates that the windshield washer reservoir is only a quarter full. The sensor signal is provided by a float-operated switch in the windshield washer reservoir. When there is sufficient fluid in the reservoir the switch connects one of the digital inputs of the auxiliary warning system module to ground. It opens when the fluid level drops to a quarter full.
Procedure if there is a concern over washer system water leaking from the filled windshield washer reservoir when the vehicle accelerates or decelerates strongly.
Vehicles built to 09.12.98 (build code WG) inclusive
