mapm1998

Hi.
I have a problem, with the windshield washers/wipers. When I press in the stalk, neither the wipers move, neither the washers spray water. However, if I turn the stalk to the max wiper speed, everything works fine, including the washers (they start to work).
Meaning, when I have the stalk on the off setting, if I press in, nothing happens, but if I have it on the max speed, everything works fine.
Does this problem relate with the stalk it self, or is it anything else?

slammer111

If the problem is with the stalk, there is a chance the problem will be intermittent. Sounds like what you're experiencing.

I'm guessing your stalk has been replaced before. If so, whoever did it didn't shave down the rail as per the instructions. Be sure to do this when you replace the stalk.

Turn signal stalk replacement

mapm1998

Thanks for the response! So, do I have to take the stalk out and shave the rail?
And can I use the stalk that I have installed on the car, or is it necessary a new one?

slammer111

The wire has been cut by rubbing against the rail section (part of the shroud) that wasn't removed. This issue applies to anyone with an "older" shroud and "newer" stalk. As the stalks are known for wearing out (the "clicky" bits stop holding the stalk in the turn positions), most W203s currently on the road will have this potential problem. These stalks seem to only last a few years, and the "older" stalks disappeared from the marketplace over a decade ago.

The link I posted earlier explains everything.

In theory you can try to resolder the severed wire, but personally I found there wasn't enough wire sticking out from the stalk to do so. I would recommend replacing the entire stalk, and of course grinding down the rail.