Audi a3 - rear window wiper fire

Caleb11

Does anyone know what could have caused this? Perhaps water got into the electrics. I thought the fuse would have blown but it didn't. I didn't have the window wipers on, although there was snow on the ground it wasn't falling from the sky at that moment.

The wires are all burnt out now, looks like I will need a full new boot door. Anyone ever experienced similiar or any idea how this could of happened.

forgotmyname

Wiper motor or wiring shorted. Its possible that it drew just enough power to melt the wire/plastic but not blow the fuse.

Have you checked the fuses? Any extra wiring in there?

D4nny

the rear washer pipe/water actually runs through the rear wiper motor if that makes sense? They tend to leak water/washer fluid into the actual motor so every time you go to squirt water onto the rear screen it will actually be filling up the motor too id geuss its shorted out and caught fire.iv seen dozens of these with the same issue now possibly ring up audi and see if its a known issue? And/or if they will do anything about it.

Clive_Woody

Vorsprung durch technik.


[Google translate] Random burny bits included for free [/Google translate]

tberry6686

ring up audi and see if its a known issue?

They will never have heard of it happening before, just like all car manufacturers would say - no matter how many times it has happened already. Just look at VAG's response to conrods going through the block on some of their diesel engines.

Generali

http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/vosa-audi-a3-dmf-vechicle-id-recall-numbers.97715/

HTH

colino

OP while your actions will have saved more of a mess, don't ever touch the plastics on a car that have been overheated or burned, you really don't know what type of material they are and some are so dangerous Fire Services have a general warning about them.

AdrianC

Was the rear wiper on? Had it stalled from being wedged with snow?

Caleb11

Thanks for replies.

D4nny

Caleb11 wrote: »

Thanks for replies.

I called audi and have had exceptional service. I got the AA come and collect my car and take it to the Audi garage. They are replacing the window and faulty parts. They also gave me a courtesy car and paid my taxi home.

They haven't really said what exactly was the problem or admitted responsibility but they have apologised repeatedly and been totally sympathetic towards me.

It does make me a little suspicious but I'm glad it's getting sorted and no one was hurt. I do wonder if it is a fault they are aware of and are worried of the consequences if they refused to replace it

I'm very impressed I must say and when I buy another car later this year this would definitely influence my decision to choose Audi again.

are you having to pay for the repair?

arcon5

What year is it