Programmable wiper relays

Hello everyone,

Since the search function isn't turning up anything, here's a small, slightly off-topic question:

Does anyone have experience with these programmable wiper relays? So, these are the ones where you can set a variable wiping interval by feeling the interval function, briefly waiting, and then turning it on.

After experiencing the familiar situation yesterday, where the continuous mode was too fast and the interval mode was too slow in the rain, I want to install one of those devices.

As far as I know, you simply replace the original relay with the other one, and that's it. Does this generally apply, or only to older vehicles?

Should one try to obtain a VAG part, or are the parts from aftermarket suppliers just as good/bad?

Best regards, and thank you very much.

Jan.

Hello Jan!

Okay, here's a tip: In the Golf (specifically, the station wagon version), this relay was installed as a standard part, so it's relatively inexpensive and you can probably find it at almost any junkyard. The relay has a "99" printed on it. I think that should be the right one for you. Simply replace the standard 19-amp relay.


Best regards,
brezelmann01

brezelmann01 wrote:

Hello Jan! So, as a small tip, I can tell you that in the Golf, specifically in the

Variant model, it was installed as standard equipment...

Unfortunately, my G3 didn't have a variable interval feature, but my father's does. Now, the relay in the Lupo is working as it should. I have a similar part in my Jetta as well, and I'm very happy with it.

Hi Bertil!

"It seems that information was indeed only referring to the G3 variant. I have a brochure here, "Technical data and features - The new Golf Variant," August 1993 edition. And it states: "Two-stage windshield wiper with continuously programmable interval control." And that applies to the CL, GL, and GT/GTD models." And ours also had that back then:-).

Best regards,
pretzel man

Hi, I installed a relay in my 32B Passat, and later also used it in my 35i Passat.
I was extremely happy with that feature and still miss it today, even though my current 3B Passat has the interval wiper setting with the 4 levels.

But, in my opinion, the interval switching with the continuously adjustable relay was much better! Unfortunately, it cannot be installed in the 3B.

The only thing you need to get used to is the controls, and I think that was also the reason why VW changed the system.

brezelmann01 wrote:

Hi Bertil! "It seems that information was indeed only referring to the G3 variant. I have a brochure here, "Technical data and features - The new Golf Variant," August 1993 edition. And it states: "Two-stage windshield wiper with continuously programmable interval control." And that applies to the CL, GL, and GT/GTD models." And ours also had that back then:-). Best regards, brezelmann

My G3 was a Pampersbomber (variant), and so was my father's.
He was in the MJ 95 team, but not in the MJ 96 team! That's just the way it is with the penny-pinching tendencies of some people.

Hello,
In my 3B Passat (engine codes LIM, AFN, manufactured in 9/97), this programmable device was installed from the beginning. I am completely satisfied with it.
Regards,
Max.

Hello,

Okay, it's very model-dependent... so, the junkyard option is likely to be a more time-consuming search.

In that case, buying is probably the simpler alternative.

Here's what I found on a Polo 6KV wiring diagram (which might also apply to the Ibiza): the following labels are used:

174 Relay, windshield wiper (located in position 9).
19 Relays for windshield wiper interval automatic control (located in position 11).

That sounds at least compatible with the numbers mentioned above - so, remove 19 and add 99 - is that correct?

Are the relay positions possibly the same for the Golf 3?

Best regards,

Jan.

The Relais 99 was not part of the 3er series, but it was available in various special models and GTI versions.
To the best of my knowledge, virtually every T4 model uses this 99-type relay. That could simplify the process of searching for scrap yards.

Hello everyone,

I did some further research and identified a relay with the part number 3B0 955 531, which apparently appears in both the T4 and the Passat 3B. Can this be used to replace the 19?

Here's a picture of the relay holder from a 6K... I'm mainly interested in whether any of the Golf owners recognize it, or if it looks completely different in the Golf.

Best regards,

Jan.

Hello Jan!

The relay number is correct!
Oh yes, I just read online that the relay with the marking "197" also fits. That's the latest designation for the programmable relay. I haven't checked it myself yet!

Best regards,
pretzel


P.S.: According to a diagram of the relay holder in the G3 DIY book, there are significant differences! But as I said: It's just a picture, I haven't seen it in person.

I had something like that in my Ascona ('8) and in an Ibiza ('95).

purchased from Conrad.

Easy to swap, excellent functionality.

Humans are, after all, the best rain sensors.

CU Gremlin.

Hi Gremlin,

I suspect Conrad is asking for less than just under 30 euros for that, right?

I'll go look in the catalog right away...

Best regards,

Jan.

Hi,

...and just for everyone who might be tempted to copy it: Conrad seems to no longer carry this item... at least, it stubbornly resisted all my attempts to find it. At Waeco, it's the same story... they only have this modern stuff with rain sensors... but I completely agree with Gremlin that humans are the best rain sensors.

Then buying from VW is probably the best alternative... Unfortunately, I don't have time for the option involving the junkyard right now, and by the time that changes, the rainy autumn season will probably be over.

Does anyone know of any other sources where I can find it for under 30 euros?

Best regards.

Jan.

Jan6K wrote:

Does anyone know of any other sources where I can find it for under 30 euros?

Please don't judge me too harshly.

http://cgi.ebay.de/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2436126640&category=23006 (he has several of these available)

I bought mine back then from ATU, and it cost around 30 German Marks (!), so I think 30 euros is a bit expensive today.

You should actually be able to find those things at a junkyard.
That will probably take less time than searching for a provider right now who offers those items new for under €30.