resume until the windshield wipers are activated. This is to keep the wiper from working when the
window is dry. By switching rear window intermittent wiping off and then back on, you can override this
feature and activate the rear window wiper immediately.
The intermittent wiping for the front windshield depends on the driving speed. The higher the
speed, the faster the wipers move.
If the wiper blades freeze to the windshield, loosen them carefully. Volkswagen recommends
using a deicing spray.
f the front wipers are on, the rear wiper is switched on automatically when backing up.
Windshield wiper functions
If the box in the Rain sensorfunction key is checked =, the feature is enabled.
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. 94 (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 cause wiping.
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.
x Crack in the windshield: If a stone hits and chips the sensitive surface while the rain sensor is on,
this will trigger a wiper cycle. After that, the rain sensor will recognize the change and recalibrate itself
to respond to the smaller detection zone. Depending on the size of the chip, the sensor's reaction
pattern may or may not change.
.WARNING
The rain sensor cannot always recognize rain and activate the wipers.
x Switch the wipers on manually when water on the windshield reduces visibility.
Clean the sensitive area of the rain sensor regularly and check the wiper blades for wear or
damage.
To remove wax and coats of polish safely, we recommend using an alcohol-based windshield
cleaner.
Checking and refilling windshield washer fluid
Fig. 95 In the engine compartment: Cap of the windshield washer fluid reservoir.
