Dangling raing sensor...

[alloam]

As I am getting to know my new (to me) R320 I am trying to ascertain why auto-wipers only functioning as intermittent. I have pulled off the cover behind the mirror to find the sensor/lens assembly in place (part number 164 820 0185 - I assume this is not just a light sensor?).

However, and surely this must be where the problem lies, it is only clipped onto the lens frame on the driver's side. On the passenger side you can pull it down and see the lens, and the attachment points on the lens frame. Try as I might, I cannot get it reattached on that side. I have tried pulling, pushing, heaving, you name it. Neither can I remove it from the other side without the application of what I feel is altogether too much brute force for just a wee black plastic box...

I'm sure this is a similar design to other models, can anyone give me any advice on how to reattach it? I want to get it all attached properly so I can see if the sensor is working, I have to assume with it hanging off that it won't be functioning at the moment.

Much obliged.

Other than this wee gremlin, I'm enjoying the car a lot.

 

[npuk]

Something must be broken on the left side so try using something like a hot glue gun to attach the sensor firmly on the left hand side to the frame. Use a small amount on the side between the frame and sensor. The frame on the glass that holds the sensor comes glued to the screen from the factory so wont be simple to replace.

 

[alloam]

Thanks for the response. I don't think anything is broken - that is the weird thing. It is not like when I push the sensor up towards the windscreen it then lies flush, it goes up to the point where the catches on the lens frame touch something inside the sensor (it feels like a ridge, and you can feel the indentations where I assume the catches slip into), but it just won't go any further and click into place - despite considerable heft being placed on it.

On the driver's side, the sensor is almost flush with the windscreen and obviously well attached, on the passenger side it is still proud by c. 8mm when pushed up.

It is such a simple thing, I'm sure there must be a knack to it, but I can't figure it out and obviously don't want to break anything in the process.

Any other thoughts?

 

[m7m]

Take care when pushing sensor towards windscreen. On a rainy day, a few years ago, I broke the windscreen just doing something very similar.

 

[alloam]

I know I don't wanna do that!!

I'm thinking there must be some part of the sensor box that slides out in order to allow the lens attachment points to lodge fully within the sensor and then you slide the locking part back in place, or something like that... but I still can't work it out. Why is this so difficult?!

I know when it is either explained to me or I work it out I will go - I just wish that was sooner rather than later!

 

[alloam]

Ah ha! Finally got it sussed. There is indeed a section that slides out a few mm on either side. Can't believe it took so long to work out. Now need some rain to check if the sensor is working... shouldn't have to wait long.

 

[whitenemesis]

Try with a plant mister or just by hand splash some water over the sensor area..

Mind you I'm sure rain wont be too far off