406 Exec Auto Wipers issue

[Smudger]

Hi, new poster here.

I've got a 2000 W plate 406 Executive HDI saloon which is proving to be remarkably cheap to run, requiring 0 spend on the last 3 MOTs. The issue I have now is that my auto-variable windscreen wipers don't work.

They work in every setting, but when in position 1 (auto) they swipe once every 5 or so seconds, irrespective of how much rain is on the windscreen. It seems to have gone to the failback position. I've put the ignition on, set the wipers to auto, then checked the sensor, and I'm getting 1 orange light showing in the left-hand side, with nothing on the right. The left hand light is a bit flickery as well, but I'm not sure if this is by design.

Should I have an orange light on both sides of the sensor? Or does one push the light and the other 'sense'? Do I need a new sensor? Are they easy to replace? I've had a quick look, and it seems to be glued to the windscreen, so I'm imagining it's not easy.

Thanks for reading so far, I look forward to hearing thoughts.

[frog]

Seems this guy had the same problem:

http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/?t=36092

Remedy:

"the whole sensor assembly was not attached to the windscreen via the two metal plates (they hold the unit, and latch into its green slider retainers) and so was set back a few mils.

It seems very critical that the unit is fixed via these retainers and flush with the windscreen"

Here is a nice description of repairing the rain sensor: viewtopic.php?f=10&t=11784 .

Hope this helps you a bit!

[Smudger]

Thanks very much! I'll take a look...

[Smudger]

Well, one of the metal holding posts had come away from the windscreen, so I got some double-sided sticky tape, stuck it back on and remounted the sensor. Still doesn't work, but I noticed the light was flickery rather than solid, so I've ordered a new sensor off eBay for a fiver. Let's hope that fixes it...