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Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Rain sensor

Fig. 89 shows setting the rain sensor sensitivity on the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 wiper lever, and Fig. 90 shows the sensor's sensitive surface on the windscreen. Once activated, the sensor automatically adjusts wiper interval frequency to match how much rain is falling — this page explains how to set it and what can affect its accuracy.

Fig. 89 Windscreen wiper lever: setting the rain sensor ①

Fig. 90 Sensitive surface of the rain sensor

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

When the rain sensor is activated, it automatically controls the frequency of the wiper intervals, depending on the amount of rain  . The sensitivity of the rain sensor can be adjusted manually. Manual wipe   .

The automatic wipe function can be activated and deactivated using the button and the and Mirror and wipers function buttons in the infotainment system   .

If the rain sensor deactivated, intervals will be set in levels.

Push the lever to the desired position  :

  1. Deactivates the rain sensor.
  2. Rain sensor is active – automatic wipe when necessary.

  3. Adjusting the sensitivity of the rain sensor:

    • Switch to the right – high sensitivity.
    • Switch to the left – low sensitivity.

The rain sensor will remain active after the ignition is switched off and back on again and will function again if the windscreen wiper lever is in position Ⓑ and if the vehicle is travelling at speeds higher than 4 km/h (2 mph).

Changes to the functioning of the rain sensor

Possible causes for faults and misinterpretations concerning the sensitive surface   of the rain sensor include:

  • Damaged wiper blades: a film of water or smears caused by damaged wiper blades can increase the time the wipers are switched on, can shorten the length of the intervals between wipes or cause the wipers to run continuously.
  • Insects: insects hitting the windscreen surface can cause the wipers to be activated.
  • Salt deposits: in winter, salt deposits can cause the wiper to continue to wipe the windscreen when it is almost dry.
  • Soiling: dry dust, wax, windscreen coatings (lotus effect) or detergent deposits (automatic car wash) can cause the rain sensor to become less sensitive and react too slowly or even not at all.
  • Crack in the windscreen: when the windscreen is impacted by a stone, a wash cycle is triggered if the rain sensor is on. The rain sensor will then register the reduction in sensitivity of the surface and adjust accordingly. The size of the crack could affect the way in which the sensor activates the wipers.

WARNING

The rain sensor will not always detect every rain shower and activate the windscreen wipers.
  • If necessary, switch on the windscreen wiper manually if the water on the windscreen restricts the field of vision.

Clean the sensitive surface of the rain sensor   (arrow) at regular intervals and check the wiper blades for damage.

We recommend that you use an alcohol-based glass cleaner to remove wax and polish.

    Questions & answers

    Rain sensor — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

    How does the Golf Mk7 rain sensor work?
    The sensor on the windscreen behind the mirror detects moisture and automatically adjusts the wiper interval frequency to match the intensity of rainfall.
    How do I adjust the Golf Mk7 rain sensor sensitivity?
    Turn the adjustment ring on the wiper lever. Rotating it toward the windscreen symbol increases sensitivity (faster reaction to light rain); rotating it away decreases it.
    Can I switch the Golf Mk7 rain sensor off?
    Yes. Move the wiper lever to a fixed interval or manual position. The rain sensor is only active in the automatic interval mode.
    Does the Golf Mk7 rain sensor stay active after restarting the engine?
    Yes. The sensor retains its active state across ignition cycles, so you do not need to reactivate it every journey.
    Where is the Golf Mk7 rain sensor located?
    It is behind the interior mirror base on the windscreen, sharing the sensor window with the cameras for Light Assist and Lane Assist.
    Service position for the front windscreen wipers
    Fig. 88 Wiper blades in service position First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings The windscreen wiper arms can be lifted off the windscreen when in the service ...

    Checking and refilling the windscreen washer fluid level
    Fig. 91 In the engine compartment: cap of washer fluid reservoir First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings The windscreen washer fluid level should be checked reg ...

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