bmwe21.net forums

Hey guys, I'm new to BMW's and also this forum, Ive recently picked up an E21 323i, and I'm having a few issues, I could probably address them myself and learn from mistakes, but alas thats what a forum is for, let someone else make the mistake

Im having issues with the wiper motor on my 323, it seems as if the wiper motor its self is a little "tired" as when the wipers are against the windscreen ie: with friction, they seem to be very slow, as in so slow that the "fast setting" is exactly the same as the slow setting, when lifting the wipers into the up position so as they are off the windscreen they seem to be much quicker, now I'm no mechanic, but this seems like the wiper motor needs replacing (yeah im a genius) my question is, whats the best replacement? As im new to all things bavarian is there a wiper motor that was perhaps generic among bmw's of the same period or even off of a car from another make, essentially I dont want to be down at the wrecker looking for another 323i of the same year.....but alas if thats what I have to do, then thats what I have to do......

Cheers Guys

Hi Mini and welcome,

I think you'll be fine with any E21 wiper motor. I think I actually have an E30 one in mine, but that's because most of the wiring is (long story!) What I will say is that they're not the most powerful at the best of times and just about do their job when it's raining. Therefore if they're working and not making any strange noises and they serve their purpose when the windscreens wet and there is less friction, I wouldn't bother personally.

Mine is a bit on the slow side at times aswell, it does not always fully return. I wonder if this will become an MOT issue at some point. How much of a chore would it be to upgrade to one from an e30, or any model of car really?

I've never heard of it as a weak spot on the E21, but there is a first time. Anyway, I have an E30 wiper motor and works fine. Have to make sure you buy or swap over the wiper linkage too or it won't sweep the screen properly.

I had problems with slow/tired wipers that got stuck half way across the screen ..i swapped the wiper relay for one i had spare and this solved the problem..edd..

Make sure all the linkage is lubricated and fit a new wiper relay. Cleaning the relay contacts & fuses also helps.

mine starts off a little slow at first but speeds up after a few sweeps.
i wonder how many amps the motor is supposed to pull? anyone fancy working it out?

you got full battery voltage at the wiper motor?