Wiper blades

[kslevi]

I think its been covered before, and I know there are a couple of pics, but I wanted to check with others:

I've got a 2003 A2 1.4 SE, had it for just 2 weeks, and it has what I'd call a normal wiper blade that you get on most cars (although theres only 1 so its quite big) but the type with the wind deflector on the front, but I thought these were changed, cos I remember seeing a big floopy one (please-no jokes!) that looked like all rubber?

Can someone confirm what type they have, what I should have, and do I need to change it. As it hasn't realy rained yet I haven't used it so its not really a problem.

2003 A2 1.4 SE in Cobalt blue, black interior, Climate Control, Winter Pack

[martinw]

Sound the same as mine - 2002 my 1.4SE

MartinW - Dolphin Grey 1.4SE

[deheld]

Hi,

Check the owners website - European owners - page three.
My red A2 has the new 2002 wiper blades.

Hope this helps !



Dennis de Held

Amulet Red 1.4 Tdi

[John Disdale]

Kslevi,

It’s a straight forward fact that there is more of a mystery about the new “aerodynamic” wiper than the mysteries of the Loch Ness monster. Funnily enough I believe “Nessy” has been sighted 6 times this year, but no one in the UK appears to have seen the new wiper which Audi UK have been advertising for the past 5 months on their website. This of course is not the situation in other European countries where A2 owners were enjoying the new wiper as long as 9 months ago.

Some might say that Audi UK cannot carry on projecting so much apathy, but what with claims of over colourful fuel consumption figures, and an all aluminium body which isn’t, it appears that the company have laws of their own – and woe betide any A2 owner who challenges it.

Regards
John Disdale

[martinw]

John, if I didn;t know better, I'd say you were having a go at Audi UK here...

MartinW - Dolphin Grey 1.4SE

[Andy]

Hi,

I picked up my 1.6 FSi SE a week ago :D , it has got the new wubbery one, not had much rain yet so can't say how good it is.

So far so good, not a single problem yet.

Andy

[John Disdale]

Andy,

Step forward for your trophy, because I believe you are the first person in the UK to have an A2 fitted with the new wiper. Do remember rain is one thing, but the new aerodynamic wiper has been specifically designed to reduce air turbulence noise. Few A2 owners appreciate just how much noise the old wiper created when cruising at 80mph, however before everyone starts saying I want a new one fitted to my old car I was informed by Audi UK that such upgrades were not possible. That said it would appear that a forum member in Norway did make the change himself, so it’s likely another case where Audi UK do not know what they are talking about.

There is a further laugh to the topic of wipers when although my new Golf is only 4 weeks old it has what I regard as conventional wipers, but some new VW’s currently arriving have the new aerodynamic (all rubber) wipers like the Audi A2 (and new A6), however my understanding dealer is going to experiment to see if they will work on my car without any problem – so I sit in hopes.

Regards
John Disdale

[BK]

JD,

i haven't made the change to my own A2 as this will come with the new
wiper design from Bosch (Bosch AeroTwin).

I just came across an article in a german VW/Audi magazine which describes the process of changing wiper arm to acommondate the new wiper design on the A2.

And you will be able to use the new wipers on your new Golf as long as you change the wiper arms (this also applies to the Bora, A3, Passat+++, the A4 is yet to come with the new wipers from Bosch).
You just need the part number of the wiper arms from a Golf equipped with this from the factory.
And then it's as easy as changing the wiper arms by loosening 2 nuts (1 on each arm), swapping them with the new ones, adjusting the position of the arms and then tightening the nuts again !

If you can't get your dealer to supply you with the parts number for this then give me a shout and I'll get it for you :)

BK

Soon the owner of a 2003 Silver 1.4 TDI S-Line (Sport in the UK) with Open Sky, ECC, APS, CruiseControl, Navigation Plus + TV + BOSE + CD changer, Sideguard, Mobile phone, El. rear windows, Fog lights, Winter Package, ISOFIX, Headlight washers, Space Floor +++++++

[John Disdale]

BK - Thats good news for all. Thanks a lot.

Regards
John Disdale

[STEVO]

Hi BK
I have a Golf aswell and would be interested in changing my wipers to the new ones, are you aware of any website that shows these wipers from Bosch
Regards stevo

[BK]

Hi Stevo !

I'll have a look on the web to see if I can find some pictures of the
new wipers.

If not I can take a picture of one of our showroom cars at work.
But that will have to wait until monday :)
Or you can drop by your local dealer to wiew it there.
All Golfs produced after july should have the new wiper design.
At least that's the case here in Norway :)

Now I'm off to a birthday party for my grandma [:o)]

(I'll drop by the forum before bedtime tonight[:I])

BK

Soon the owner of a 2003 Silver 1.4 TDI S-Line (Sport in the UK) with Open Sky, ECC, APS, CruiseControl, Navigation Plus + TV + BOSE + CD changer, Sideguard, Mobile phone, El. rear windows, Fog lights, Winter Package, ISOFIX, Headlight washers, Space Floor +++++++

[STEVO]

Thanks Bk forget about the pic i was unaware that all golfs were supposed to have them since july i will contact my local vw garage on Mon and see what they have to say,at a hunch nothing because as get i have not seen any golfs here with them on i suspect it is the usual the Uk is last to get any updates on any cars i think.
Regards stevo

[John Disdale]

Stevo,

I know that my dealer does not have a problem in ascertaining the part numbers, but it’s just a question of compatibility. BK seems to believe it will not be a major problem, so that’s good enough for me at present. Of course we will have to replace arms and blades, and I’ve heard it rumoured that the total cost could be around £55. That said I hope my dealer shows willing – otherwise they will be receiving a letter.[8D]

What of course we now want for A2 owners is further feed back that the change can be made for those with the old wiper design.

Regards
John Disdale

[maersk]

Oh God, I don't belieeeeeve it! Another letter. [}:)] :D [}:)] [:o)]

images/icon_smile_cool.gif

[John Disdale]

I need some typing experience, or I might start slipping.

[John Reynolds]

My FSI has the big rubber wiper, seems quiet enough and it even removes rain from the windscreen - what a bonus.

JR

A2 1.6 FSI, Cobalt blue, OpenSky, etc.

[Ade]

Can anyone point me to the advertisement on the Audi UK web site about the wiper blades? I have my dealer in mid complaint about my A2 (collected today) which did not have the rubbery wiper.

Anyone know the part numbers?

[John Disdale]

Ade,

So did your dealer look a little concerned as you started pouring petrol over the showroom floor ?

Seriously I am gobsmacked as to why your car does not have the floppy wiper (like an A6). This “new aerodynamic wiper” has been advertised on the Audi UK website for over 5 months, and apart from “Slicer” recently seeing one in a showroom you also have John Reynolds, BK, Dennis, and Andy who have them fitted on their own cars.

What I would suggest is that if a kind A2 owner who has the new wiper could telephone their dealer (quoting chassis number), and then ascertain the parts number for the arm and wiper blade – this would make for a step in the right direction. Unfortunately Dennis de Held cannot assist in the exercise because he does not have a RH drive car.

I have noted that most of the above individuals do own the FSI model, however for clarity I wish to confirm that when Audi UK started to advertise the new wiper this was before they advertised the FSI model. That said the FSI is of course an A2.

Personally I do not understand why your dealer could not look on their computer parts list in order to try and be more helpful. I can only presume your comments were regarded as an inconvenience, however I’m sure they managed to take your money without any problem or technical hitches.

Regards
John Disdale

[Rob Earl]

Ade,

I'm in the same boat as you. New car, old wiper. Knowing what I know about my dealer (JD's old Audi haunt), I'd probably be needing some proof - preferably in blood from Audi's point of view - before any action is taken to make our car a full 2003 spec A2.

I'll be taking a trip to my dealer in the next few days to peruse the A2's on the forecourt and check out wiper design. Please let there be one there with a new style wiper...............

1.4SE petrol in Merlot Red, Biege interior, 16" 5 spoke alloys, DIS, Open Sky, Elec rear windows.

[John Disdale]

Perhaps “Slicer” could confirm the dealership where he viewed the new wiper, and confirm whether it was a A2 petrol, TDI, or FSI.

[runboy]

My replacement 2003 A2 (build week 35, around July) has the bigger fuel tank, new style owners manual but the old two-bar wiper arm....it does cause a little wind noise when driving, so should I ask for the correct one to be fitted (if I keep the car!)?. What benefits are there?.

See, I'm calm!.

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[Rob Earl]

Asked my Wife who drives the A2 on a day to day basis about the quality of the wiper. So far she has no concerns or complaints.
I know the old design was known to suffer from judder and if I remember rightly, wind noise at speed. Are there any other issues with it?

1.4SE petrol in Merlot Red, Biege interior, 16" 5 spoke alloys, DIS, Open Sky, Elec rear windows.

[Ade]

Frustrating isn't it and I wish I had got a petrol can with me at the time JD [V]

I don't seem to be able to find the article on the Audi UK website, anyone got the URL or how to find it? That would be step one for me and then step 2 would be the part numbers, etc. for a replacement.

And yes I think they thought I was an inconvenience, how impertinent of me to check things over and ask for something which I have been advised has been available for 5 months, I must be wrong as they don't know about it, etc.

But they still took the money...

[Phil]

I bet Audi as with other dealers have some disclaimer on their website/brochure that says we can change specs at any time and for up to date info you need to speak to your dealer.

Phil

[rspecial]

My 1.6 FSI also has the new style big floppy rubber wiper.

- Alex


A2 1.6 FSE SE

[John Disdale]

When I spoke to Audi UK over the question of the wiper I was informed that if it was quoted on the website then it would be duly supplied. I can quote this persons name and date of the conversation.

Of course I do not deny that I might now be informed that I misunderstood, or that perhaps I had been talking to the weather forecast centre.

Regards
John Disdale

[runboy]

I emailed my dealer today to book the A2 in for the remaining issues to be recitified, and I also asked them to ask Audi why my 2003 doesn't have the revised wipers. After all, it's no skin off their nose-it's Audi's problem for not fitting the correct item when the car was built so the dealer should be charged anything for fitting the correct part. I'll let you know how I get on.

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[Ade]

Runboy, did they acknowledge that it should have them? I'm having a hard time finding anything concrete to show them about it as they were acting dumb over it.

Please let us know how you got on....

p.s. Apart from that, the car is fine, none of the issues widely reported here, phew.

[runboy]

Ade

Only emailed them yesterday afternoon so I'm not expecting a reply before Monday!.

But I will post up what they tell me.

With regards to evidence, if you read any press release relating to the 1.6FSI or review of 2003 A2, they usually mention the wiper blades as along with the bigger fuel tank these were the changes to the 2003 model range. Surely the dealer has the internal Audi memos on model releases they can refer to-my dealer did when I was buying my A2.

Try searching through the car sites on the internet. If I get time I'll post some links later today/tomorrow.

You can start by reading the topic on the board recently posted called something like "A2 facelift" which when you read it mentions the wiper blade.

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[John Disdale]

I have visited my VW dealer again to ascertain if “floppy” wipers can be fitted to my Golf. The latest answer is yes, and when I said that under the circumstances I would at least be prepared to pay 50% of the cost, they said not to worry. The cost of new arms and blades is around £60 (plus fitting) so I am happy – especially so when no heavy complaint or argument was needed on my part.

I wish my past Audi dealer had been as accommodating.

Regards
John Disdale

[runboy]

Well, the dealer phoned me today to book the car in for Monday week. My email to them asked to find out why my 2003 A2 didn't have the correct wiper, and as they just want the car to fix the problems, I'm taking that to also mean the wiper. So if you don't ask you don't get.....

I know I shouldn't whinge until I have the car back, but for them not to mention the wiper probably means they have ignored that part of my email and they will do nothing about it. We shall see......

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[runboy]

Found some hard evidence direct from the horses mouth (Audi) regarding the revised wipers which should be standard on newer A2's.

The publication is question is Audi's own "The Audi Magazine", issue 27 Spring/Summer 2002.

On page 9 is a two-thirds page article entitled "Audi A2 gets higher specification and sport package" (the top of the page also says "2002 A2"). I won't retype the whole article, but it talks about the revised spec for A2's which includes the bigger fuel tank, and for SE models the Concert II single CD player being standard.

The most important part is it says this "A new streamlined blade for the single windscreen wiper improves clearing and reduces wind noise".

So there you have it, straight from Audi and every dealer will probably have copies of the magazine around the waiting area. So no dispute then.

If you haven't got the correctly fitted wiper which you paid for as part of the car, get the dealer to fit it.

I've also posted this on the topic "Wiper Blades".

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[Ade]

Thanks Runboy, off to my dealer then....

[COtt]

My 1.2TDI (build 6/2001) has this new wiper blade already. Is Audi selling the old crap now to UK?

Regards,
Christian

A2 1.2TDI (build 6/2001)

[maersk]

YES![8D]

images/icon_smile_cool.gif

[runboy]

Why the smile-you missing your "new and improved" wiper?

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[Ade]

Runboy, is that the 'lesser spotted' variety or some other mythical beast.... [:p]

[runboy]

You can just imagine the A2 workers in the factory holding a lottery.....

"and todays lucky A2 to have the correct spec is......car number 13.......come on down"

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[Ade]

I can just imagine them: "Oh, wait a minute, this is a UK order. Heh, heh, go out the back and get one of those old wipers from the skip will you...."

No offence intended to the factory workers - well maybe a little

[John Disdale]

Today I had the new “floppy” wipers fitted to my Golf for free, and although I hear you cry but we don’t have Golf’s I think it’s relevant when the same design technology and manufacturer is being used. As it happened it was pouring with rain today, and with the wipers going it was apparent how much quieter they were moving across the screen.

According to my dealer they are worst at slow traffic speeds but far superior on the motorway, however being that I was only driving on local streets I found them fine.

Regards
John Disdale

[runboy]

Glad to hear it JD-tell me, is it just the blade that is replaced, or part(s) or the arm too?.

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[John Disdale]

Steve - Its new arms as well.

[runboy]

JD-can I ask why the were fitted for free?. I presume the original ones were not wrong-you just prefered the better wiper design. Was it some form of compensation for the paintwork problems you had?.

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[runboy]

A quick update. My dealer phoned to say that the reason why my 2003 model A2 doesn't have the single wiper-arm wiper is because up to around chassis number 14000 (or something like that) they were built with the double-arm. From chassis 14000 (or whatever!) they had the single-arm. But the dealer said they will order and fit the single-arm as a goodwill gesture. Good old boys.

So there you have it-within a model year you can have subset model years-2002 and a half maybe!.

So good luck if you don't have the single wiper arm and you ask your dealer!.


Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[John Disdale]

Steve,

My new wipers were supplied for free because (1) The dealer sees me as a very charming person, or (2) My first ever letter to them indicated that I could be a real pain in the ar*e without really trying.

I bet they went for option 1.

As it was when I visited the dealer this morning they were polishing the floor on my path towards the reception desk. I am still trying to work out if they were trying to impress me, or hoping that I would slip over and break my neck.

Good to see that eventually you are about to get the new wipers at long last. Well, its something different to complain about, and who knows with a touch of luck you might need the bonnet repainted.

Btw, I presume you have read the latest Audi Bulletin, where oil on the headrest is a cure for squeaky necks.

Regards
John Disdale

[maersk]

Don't want to sound like a 'disdale' (JD's quote) but the wiper on mine is the original 'noisy' type and clears the screen just fine. ;)

images/icon_smile_cool.gif

[John Disdale]

Maersk - Does this mean you will violently resist fitting the new quite aerodynamic wipers to your car somewhere in the future ?

[runboy]

There has to be a Monty Python sketch here somewhere.....

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[Ade]

Well, guess what. The alleged reason I don't have my wiper is due to the chassis number, I missed out by around 70 cars worth. Good news is that they will retrofit free of charge (thanks for the info. everyone- they do judder like hell on mine). Downside is they are on back order and may take between 10 days and 3 months!

Just for info., the person relaying the info. to me suggested that my car was a 2002 model, only 2003 models were having the new wiper.

What else might I be missing with this being a 2002 model (I was promised a 2003 model).

Regards,

Ade

Audi A2 1.4SE
Build Wk40/2002 | OpenSky | Azure Blue | Climate | DIS | APS | Lumbar

[runboy]

I was told mine is a 2003, and I have the larger fuel tank, but not the revised wiper. Sounds like the run out of 2002 and into 2003 A2's have a collection of whatever is around at the time.....

Maybe someone can get an answer from Audi on chassis numbers for late 2002/early 2003 models?

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[runboy]

I've bee told the wipers are on order from Germany-maybe I will see them this side of the next millennium...

Just a bit of dealer info on Robinsons Audi, Norwich:

I asked for my car to be collected at 8.30am-I was told this was ok. Car eventually collected at 9.55am...and no apology.

The GALA function is in the twilight zone-they have confirmed it doesn't appear to be working on my A2-but then they tried three other cars and it didn't appear to be working on them either. They have said they will investigate a solution.

They said they had greased the drivers seat-it was still creaking last night.

The clonking from the boot area was down to the tools under the floor moving about-it was still clonking last night so I will start taking a piece of the car out each time to see if I can track down where the noise is coming from.

When they collected the car I told them to deliver it back at 5pm-they said this was fine. I then had a call mid-afternoon to say my car was ready, and they were then a bit "put out" because they couldn't deliver the car back to me straight away. So why did they agree to 5pm in the first place?.

Arghhhhhh...:(

Customer service?. Must be a concept they are striving to achieve and falling far short.

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[John Disdale]

Steve,

So for marks out of 10 based upon success I reckon the dealer should get at least 2.

I suppose it was very interesting to ascertain that they had ordered the wipers from Germany. This dispels any myths or stories relating to Hungary or Iraq. That said the fact that the car was booked in around 10 days ago following a prior discussion about the wipers must mean they were caught out in actually having to provide them. Good job you did not require something so rare as a brake pad, when I expect they are on a 6 week waiting list.

I guess it sounds crazy, but I wonder if there could be any mileage in dealers acquiring the correct designated spares before they proceed to work on the car ?

Regards
John Disdale

[runboy]

But if these "dealers" started to work efficiently, they would have to cut down on staff.

Audi is keeping the men in work!

It would seem logical to order pre the cars visit, but I fear the waiting list for a wiper arm and blade is very long. A production of 10 a week just isn't enough.

Hopefully I will have found an aluminium worm and set it to work on my A2 soon, thus ensuring an insurance claim and subsequent order for a Leon/Golf...

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[frido]

The blades should not be the problem, they are the same as on a Mercedes S Class, as far as I can tell.... and they seem to cost the same, too..:-(

Bye, Frido. (whose 1.2 has the floppy wiper blade)

----
A2 1.2 TDI 2002 silver, CC, DIS, Apple iPod :-)

[runboy]

Frido
If only the A2 was anything near Mercedes quality standards.....

Unfortunately, my local Mercedes dealership is part of the same group who runs the Audi...I feeel so sorry for those Mercedes drivers...

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[John Disdale]

Apparently lots of VW dealers also have a hopeless reputation. I think one needs to think of the Rising Sun to get a decent level of service.

[runboy]

And guess what-they own that franchise too...and the Skoda.

All they are missing is the SEAT and they'd have a full set. Though it may explain why the SEAT dealer was so good-no influence from Robinsons of Norwich.

When I went to look at the A-class, I virtually had to drag the salesman screaming from the showroom to open one up. It was a used as they had no new showroom ones. It was all ready for sale on the forcourt with price sticker-and biscuits on the interior carpet and other yukky things...

The Skoda dealer decides not to return calls to my father-in-law when he takes his Felicia in to be serviced, and another person I know is going to be charged by the VW arm of the dealership to see what alarm system he had on his VW-even though they fitted it a few years ago....

A bizzare company...

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[Stuart_D]

I must admit, I haven't read the past four pages of posts, so sorry if this has been mentioned before.

When I was at the motorshow yesterday, I had a close look at the new style 'floppy' wiper on the A2 1.6 FSI. Later on I visited the VW stand and noticed the same style of wiper on the new VW Touareg. Is this new wiper system set to become a standard on all VW/Audi group cars?

Picures of both wiper systems can be found on my site under 'Motorshow Photos'.

2001 TDI SE, Open Sky System, 16" six spoke alloys, Kenwood Mask CD.
A2 Owners Club: www.Audi-A2.co.uk

[John Disdale]

I read that because of the advantages of the said wiper design it is expected that it will end up on all cars in the near future.

[Ade]

Mmm, except VAG UK perhaps, then it is probably a long way off

Ade - awaiting my new wiper blade for retrofit FOC (allegedly)

Audi A2 1.4SE
Build Wk40/2002 | OpenSky | Azure Blue | Climate | DIS | APS | Lumbar

[martinw]

Steve, Looking on the bright side, if the A2 had 2 blades then you would have to wait twice as long for them to arrive:)

MartinW

[John Disdale]

Ah, but the A2 blade is twice as long. Perhaps this in itself affects delivery time ?

[runboy]

EC regulations state that a wiper blade over 12 inches must be handled by two people. However, those two people must not work for the same company due to liability issues (if they drop the wiper and bruise their feet, the associated compensation payment may take one company under, but it's ok if it's spread across two).

Something as weird as that anyway...

It's the twilight zone out there in Audi land.

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[Rob Earl]

Now to add my 2 pennys worth.

Just been to the dealers to ask about a new wiper blade - to which he professed to know nothing but will look into at a later time as he was just going out on a TT test drive. I think this one might need following up with regular phone calls to the dealer in question.

1.4SE petrol in Merlot Red, Biege interior, 16" 5 spoke alloys, DIS, Open Sky, Elec rear windows.

[Ade]

Well, for info a kind lady from my Audi garage has just phoned me to inform me the parts for my 'floppy' wiper blade have arrived and they have booked me in with a courtsey car for the 29th November with parts and labour FOC. They will also try to use the magical substance 'oil' on all my squeaks and will also elevate the washer jets well above the 2 inches up the screen mark they currently reach.

Will wonders never cease, will the wiper come in silk lined oak box and a numbered limited edition brass plaque on the lid, enclosing a special certificate guaranteeing it's authenticity?

TBH, I don't realy care as long as it's here. Good luck to anyone else trying to get it and thanks to the guys on here who kept me informed.

Apart from that, the A2 is a fine car albeit cr@ppy Am reception

Audi A2 1.4SE
Build Wk40/2002 | OpenSky | Azure Blue | Climate | DIS | APS | Lumbar

[John Disdale]

Ade – Just for one second I thought you was about to get cynical:D

[maersk]

Can anyone quote the part numbers of the floppy and associated wiper arm?

No JD I don't need one. I collect part numbers.

images/icon_smile_cool.gif

[Ade]

I'm on the phone to them now to see if they'll tell me. Cynical, moi?

Ade

Audi A2 1.4SE
Build Wk40/2002 | OpenSky | Azure Blue | Climate | DIS | APS | Lumbar

[Ade]

And here we have it, the mythical numbers of power....

Arm: 8Z2955407C
Blade: 8Z2955425C

I think I'm going to faint with all the excitement. Maybe they'll turn this epic quest into a film "Indiana Jones and the Wiper of Doom"....

Audi A2 1.4SE
Build Wk40/2002 | OpenSky | Azure Blue | Climate | DIS | APS | Lumbar

[John Disdale]

Maersk,

Obviously I fully appreciated that you was not likely to change your wiper when I know you are so delighted with the existing one. In terms of swapping part numbers I have a rare collectors item number for the ash tray on an old upright Ford Popular, and I just might be persuaded to part with this if you make a nice donation to the A2OC to help save the forum. Look at it this way if the forum goes where else will you be able to collect specimen part numbers from ?

Regards
John Disdale

[maersk]

JDi,
God, you give your specimens part numbers?
Are you a sicko or what?
How many have you got?
More than Mohammed Al Fayed?
Sorry Mohammed Fayed, I forgot, he is wants to be British.

images/icon_smile_cool.gif

[Rob Earl]

Picked up the car this evening after having a new light fitted due to condensation and a new style wiper fitted.

All really rather painless in the end. First impressions of wiper are less rocking of the car and a cleaner sweep.

If other people have 2003 spec cars with the old style and want to get it changed, just show them your handbook with the new wiper, quote the trade description act and sit back. Worked for us.

1.4SE petrol in Merlot Red, Biege interior, 16" 5 spoke alloys, DIS, Open Sky, Elec rear windows.

[Ade]

New wiper fitted and intact after one weeks usage. Smooth as silk across the windscreen, no judder like the old one, well recommended for anyone in a position to claim one FOC.

Audi A2 1.4SE
Build Wk40/2002 | OpenSky | Azure Blue | Climate | DIS | APS | Lumbar

[wildy]

I know this post is getting long in the tooth ( like my A2 with its "old model" wipers. does anyone know the cost of the new blade and arm ?

A2 TDi SE

[McMuffin]

I just recently checked with my Dealer and he quoted a cost of about 55 Euros for the parts and an additional 20 Euros for the fitting. He also suggested, instead of changing it, to first go through a realignment and see if that changes much. It is supposed to be possible to align the wiper blade in its angle to the windscreen. In some cases it should help!

A2 1.4TDI Silver, CC, Blaupunkt Hamburg CD70, still fairly standard :(

[alu2000]

Hi friends,
that "new" wiper blade was developed for the VW Passat W8 in 2001 by the BOSCH company. The trading name is "Aerotwin".
In 2002 the Volkswagen Group used this for new cars, like the Phaeton, Passat Facelift, Polo, Beetle 2002 and so on.
After the AUDI A2 had the new A8 and the A4 this wiper system.

My expiriences with this wipers was on an Passat very well. In my new A2 (see European Qwners gallery 24) I will see, what the future brings ...;)

Regards
ULRICH


Alu2000
2003 1.4 SE cobalt-blue with all german packages (HighTech, Advance and Style), winter pack, ABT front design, removable trailer-dock, sport-seats, complete ISOFIX, space-floor-and multibox, OpenSky, GSM an so on ...

[ecoangel]

why is everyone into wubber? what's so exciting about wiper blades?

sorry, guess I'll know when i need a new one! but so far nigh on 18 months old and not a squeek or a missed raindrop - and we've had plenty of those in the British Midlands of late!

Lukas

[Rob Earl]

Ecoangel

I've pursued the wiper issue because we have a 2003 spec car which had the 2002 spec wiper.

IMO, the wiper design was changed for a reason (whether that reason be functional or aesthetical) and as all the literature stated our car should have the new wiper, we went and got it.

The big question is why are all European models getting the wiper yet we're not - except FSi models.

Has anyone taken delivery of a new 1.4 A2 in the last few weeks in the UK with a new wiper?

1.4SE petrol in Merlot Red, Biege interior, 16" 5 spoke alloys, DIS, Open Sky, Elec rear windows.

[runboy]

Just as Rob says. Audi even advertised the 2003 A2 as having the revised wiper in it's own customer magazine. So the dealer sells you a 2003 A2 and you find it has the old design wiper-you query this only to be told "ah, but 2003 models are split by chassis number, and lower numbers don't have the new wiper". So do I have a 2002.5 model year then?. Arghhhhh.

Then the dealer tells you out of the goodness of their own hearts they will fit the correct wiper. More like to stop you complaining to the advertising standards council. Sharks.

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[Stuart_D]

I've never participated in the great wiper blade debate but only this week have I discovered how absolutely awful the standard 2001 wiper blade is! It all seems to have started yesterday when the slightest bit of moisture on the windscreen caused the whole screen the smear up when the wiper is turned on.

Even with a steady stream of water from the jets and the wipers on again it, smeared to point where I couldn't actually see anything, and it seems to dry like that!

Help!!

What's the solution? A top quality new blade or a complete refit of new wiper system (http://www.audi-a2.co.uk/cimg0021.jpg)? Will Audi do this under warranty?

2001 TDi SE, Open Sky Roof, 16" six spoke alloys, Kenwood Mask CD.
Please support the A2OC & Forum: www.Audi-A2.co.uk/support.htm

[ianjohnsonws14]

I thought nobody believed anything Audi said - the real reason for the wiper change is almost certainly that it is CHEAPER! After all the car manufactureres(except BMW, Jaguar, Porche, Ferrari) are the ones who tell us how front wheel drive gives better handling when the real reason for adopting it is cost of manufacture.

But I am getting synical ! ! ! !

Ian

2002 1.4 Petrol SE, silver with climate control.

[maersk]

Hi Gang,
Why not purchase a floppy wiper for Christmas?
Arm £29.47 + VAT
Blade £11.58 + VAT.

Are they really that much better?


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[Kaine]

quote:Originally posted by ianjohnsonws14

I thought nobody believed anything Audi said - the real reason for the wiper change is almost certainly that it is CHEAPER! ............ But I am getting synical ! ! ! !

Ian

2002 1.4 Petrol SE, silver with climate control.


There is a lot of truth in your comment, especially when you consider the A2 cannot be making any profit for AUDI at the moment.
The wiper is only one area to cut costs, i.e. commonise with the A6 design. How many other parts have secretly been changed for the '03 model year[?]

Kaine


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In the land of Mordor where the shadows lie

[maersk]

Commonise?
i doubt it sinhce the damn thing is bigger than a Transit Van on steroids.
There is an aerodynamic advantage.

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[John Disdale]

Fancy Ian getting cynical ? Personally I have no time for such attitudes on the forum, and I think it’s a good job that Steve and myself set a good example in always flying the Audi flag – which of course is represented by the graphics of the skull and crossbones.

I thought it interesting that since the “Wiper Forum” has existed there has been around 1,400 views/comments, all of which indicates a wiper is not just for Christmas, but for life.

No doubt one fine day there will be some A2 owners who will change from the old design to the new, and I am convinced they will notice an improvement. For certain I am convinced that the aerodynamic design will greatly contribute to less air turbulence noise when travelling at high speed, and for clarity (yet again) this benefit will be evident when the wipers are in the parked position.

To date I am only aware of Golf drivers who have made the swap, and all of them report a positive improvement. What however is an unknown factor is the question of wear.

Regards
John Disdale

[runboy]

Got the correct wiper fitted at last yesterday. Does work smoother in operation so that's good. Robinsons Norwich also managed to fix the rear hatch knocking (second or third time lucky-why didn't they listen to me when I told them it was the hatch in the first place?).

But they did their usual stuff-up. I asked for the car to be delivered back at 4pm, so when there was no show at 4.20pm I phoned only to be told the work sheet said between 4-5pm and they were still working on the car!. And when it finally arrived it was just as dirty as when it went in.

What a load of amateurs Robinsons Norwich really are. My opinon of course, and I challenge any of them to say I'm lying. Quicker I get rid of the thing the better.

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior

[maersk]

Having mine fitted today 'cos I need a new blade anyway and eventually the old one wont be available.
If it isn't any better.............................
I know where you all live. I have not experienced trouble with the original........until it became worn.
Courtesy car is petrol. God I had forgotten how poor the drive was.
It is also fitted with the otional 17" wheels which look very good but the 30 series tyres destroy the ride. It is absolutely apalling.
Anyone thinking of this option should dismiss it unless they have a dental medicare plan or like tramlining.

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[maersk]

OK Sorted
Wiping as good as ever but £48 quid is little to pay to get the silence over the screen and A post. Its like a different car. Mind it was quiet before this just refines things.
Worth it....just in £ terms if yours is OK to begin with.

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[John Disdale]

Well, if Maersk is in praise of the new wiper I reckon everyone else making the change will be equally delighted.

It was of course Maersk’s wisdom that had highlighted the air turbulence noise generated by the old wiper design, so its good news to hear that the new wiper positively overcomes the problem.

Clearly the appropriate parts (arm & blade) are at long last more readily available from the dealer – so surely this has to be the Christmas treat to give to your A2.

Regards
John Disdale

[maersk]

Very definitely.
My dealer is excellent. It is a Lookers franchise. They had the blade in stock and obtained the arm within 18 hours.
The car is 'different' after its first service. It is definitely more refined in the diesel clatter department. I wonder if the fitting of a new cam box gasket has anything t do with it?
I shall look this weekend as the deadening material was originally not fitted (glued) on straight to the top of the box.
Any way a great improvement.

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[runboy]

Had the wiper on now for a week and used it a lot in the recent UK weather-I must say it is a huge improvement. Quiet, cleans well, less wind noise (not me, the wiper!), and very very little rocking with the wiper on and the car stopped.

If you have a 2003 model A2 without the correct wiper get down to your dealer and demand they fit the correct one-you will notice the difference.

Unless it's Robinsons Audi in Norwich then I wouldn't bother-they may fit a dead Gerbil in place of the wiper blade...

Steve - 2003 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior