How to Turn On Auto Wipers on an Audi

To turn on auto wipers in most modern Audi models, you generally move the wiper stalk to the “AUTO” or rain-sensor position and ensure the rain sensor is activated in the vehicle’s settings; a rain sensor on the windshield then automatically adjusts wiper speed based on rainfall. This basic action is similar across Audi A3, A4, A5, A6, Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8, and many recent e‑tron models, though exact menus and symbols can differ slightly by year and trim.

Understanding Audi’s Automatic Wiper System

Audi’s automatic wiper system uses a rain/light sensor mounted near the rear-view mirror to detect moisture on the windshield and adjust the wiper speed accordingly. Once activated, the system can handle intermittent wiping and speed changes for you, improving visibility and reducing driver distraction during changing weather conditions.

What the Rain Sensor Does

The rain sensor constantly analyzes how much water is on the glass in front of it. When drops are detected, it sends signals to the wiper control unit to start or speed up the wipers, and when the windshield clears, it slows or stops them. Sensitivity can usually be adjusted using the wiper stalk’s small switch or thumbwheel.

Basic Steps: Turning On Auto Wipers in Most Audi Models

Most Audi vehicles follow a similar pattern for activating automatic wipers. The procedure relies on the wiper stalk on the right side of the steering column and the position marked with “AUTO” or a rain symbol. The following list outlines the typical steps you’ll follow in a recent Audi.

1. Start the vehicle or turn the ignition on so that electronic systems are active.
2. Locate the wiper stalk on the right side of the steering wheel.
3. Move the stalk from the “OFF” position up (or down, depending on model) to the “AUTO” or rain-sensor position, usually marked by a small windscreen with raindrops icon.
4. Check the stalk’s sensitivity control (small rocker switch or thumbwheel on the stalk) and adjust it toward “+” or a larger droplet symbol for more frequent wiping, or toward “–”/smaller droplet for less frequent wiping.
5. Verify that the system is working by spraying water on the windshield or waiting for rain; the wipers should start automatically without further input.

Once you have selected the AUTO position and adjusted sensitivity, the vehicle will manage intermittent and continuous wiping on its own, stepping up or down in speed as the rain intensity changes.

Model-by-Model Overview

While the principle is the same, Audi has made small changes to graphics, terminology, and menus over time. The following sections provide a more detailed look at how auto wipers typically work in different Audi model lines and generations.

Audi A3 and S3 (Including Recent and Current Generations)

On most A3 and S3 models from about the mid‑2010s onward, automatic wipers are standard or part of a pack that includes automatic headlights. If your car has “AUTO” on the headlight switch and a black, slightly patterned area around the interior rear-view mirror, it likely has a rain sensor.

To enable auto wipers on an A3/S3:

1. Turn on the ignition or start the engine.
2. Ensure the wiper stalk is in the OFF position to start.
3. Move the stalk one notch to the AUTO/rain-sensor position (on many A3s, this is the first “up” position from OFF).
4. Use the small switch on the stalk to tweak sensitivity to your preference.
5. If available, go to the MMI (infotainment) menu: typically CAR → Settings → Wipers or Driver assistance and confirm “Automatic wipers” or “Rain sensor” is checked.

Once set, the A3/S3 will automatically adjust wiper frequency in drizzle, moderate rain, and heavier showers with no need to change the stalk position again.

Audi A4, A5, A6, A7 and S/RS Variants

The A4, A5, A6, and A7 families share a very similar layout and user interface for the wipers, particularly in B9 (A4/A5) and C7/C8 (A6/A7) generations. As long as your car is equipped with the rain sensor option, the process is straightforward.

Typical activation steps in an A4/A5/A6/A7:

1. Switch on ignition or start the car.
2. Locate the wiper stalk to the right of the steering wheel and confirm OFF is the neutral position.
3. Move the stalk to the AUTO/rain-sensor position; this is often the first detent upward from OFF, sometimes explicitly labeled “AUTO.”
4. Adjust the intermittency/sensitivity via the small slider or thumbwheel integrated in the stalk.
5. Optionally confirm settings in the MMI under Vehicle → Settings & Service → Wipers (wording can vary slightly by software version).

When AUTO is active, you do not need to switch to low or high speed manually in most rain conditions; the control unit will automatically switch between intermittent and continuous wiping.

Audi Q-Series SUVs (Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8, SQ and RS Q Models)

Recent Q‑series SUVs, including Q3, Q5, Q7, and Q8, often bundle automatic wipers with automatic headlights and driver-assistance packages. Their stalk design mirrors the sedans and coupes, but the software menus often use the newer MMI layouts found in higher-end models.

To turn on auto wipers in most Q‑series models:

1. Start the vehicle or switch on accessory power.
2. Move the right-hand wiper stalk from OFF to the “AUTO” or raindrop icon position.
3. Adjust sensitivity with the stalk’s slider (more bars or bigger droplet = more frequent swipes).
4. In the central touchscreen, open Vehicle → Exterior or Driver assistance and make sure “Rain sensor” or “Automatic wipers” is toggled on, if the option is shown.
5. Observe wiper behavior in light rain; if the wipers don’t start, confirm the car really has the rain sensor and that the windshield area by the sensor is clean.

Q‑series SUVs are designed for varied climates, so the automatic wiper logic is generally conservative—some owners prefer increasing sensitivity for drizzly conditions to avoid a partially obscured windshield.

Audi e‑tron, Q4 e‑tron, and Newer EV Models

Audi’s electric SUVs and crossovers, such as the original e‑tron, Q8 e‑tron, and Q4 e‑tron, retain a familiar stalk but integrate more configuration in the high‑resolution MMI displays. Automatic wipers usually come standard.

On most e‑tron models, the procedure is:

1. Power on the car (press the start/stop button with the key present).
2. Set the right-hand stalk to the AUTO/rain-sensor position, which may be visually indicated with a raindrop icon on the stalk.
3. Fine-tune the sensitivity via the stalk’s small rocker switch.
4. Open the main touchscreen: go to Car → Settings → Wipers (or similar) and ensure “Automatic wipers” or “Rain sensor” is turned on.
5. Test with washer fluid spray—many e‑tron models will show a small icon in the instrument display when AUTO mode is active.

Because EVs often prioritize energy efficiency and cabin refinement, automatic wipers in these models may be tuned to reduce unnecessary wiping and noise, making the sensitivity setting especially important in light rain.

Recognizing Auto Mode and Symbols on the Wiper Stalk

The design of the wiper stalk can be confusing when you first look at the icons. Knowing what each symbol means helps you confirm that you are actually in automatic mode, and not just in a fixed intermittent setting.

Common Audi Wiper Stalk Markings

Most modern Audi wiper stalks use a combination of icons and text. The following list explains the markings you’re likely to encounter and what they mean for automatic operation.

• OFF – Wipers are completely off; AUTO mode is not active.
• AUTO or a windscreen with raindrops symbol – Activates rain-sensor automatic wiping; speed and frequency are controlled by the sensor logic.
• Intermittent bars (stacked dashes) – Often combined with AUTO, indicating the sensitivity range; moving a slider across these bars changes how aggressively the system wipes.
• LOW / single wiper symbol – Continuous low-speed wiping, overriding fully automatic behavior.
• HIGH / double wiper symbol – Continuous high-speed wiping, intended for very heavy rain.
• PULL toward you – Activates front washer spray and usually triggers several wipes; in AUTO, the system returns to sensor-controlled operation after the spray sequence.
• Push away (if present) – Activates rear wiper/washer on hatchback or SUV models; some also have an intermittent rear AUTO-like mode but usually without rain-sensor control.

By matching the stalk’s current position with these icons, you can confirm that you have successfully moved the control into the automatic, sensor-based wiping mode rather than a fixed manual speed.

Using the MMI and Vehicle Settings

On many late-model Audis, the rain sensor can be enabled or disabled in the infotainment menus. While the stalk controls the basic on/off function for auto wipers, the touchscreen or MMI controller determines whether the sensor logic is allowed to intervene at all.

Where to Find Wiper Settings in Recent Software

The structure of Audi’s menus has evolved, but there are consistent patterns. The following steps capture how drivers typically access automatic wiper settings in current MMI systems.

1. Press the Car button on the center console or select Car from the touchscreen home menu.
2. Open the section related to vehicle customization, typically named Settings & Service, Vehicle settings, or simply Settings.
3. Look for a category such as Exterior, Comfort, or Driver assistance that includes wiper options.
4. Select the wiper submenu (often labeled Wipers or Rain sensor) and ensure “Automatic wipers,” “Rain sensor,” or a similar toggle is switched on.
5. Confirm your selection and return to driving; the wiper stalk’s AUTO position now fully engages sensor-based operation.

If the rain-sensor option is missing from the menus entirely, it can indicate that your specific vehicle is not equipped with the automatic wiper feature, or that an earlier-generation MMI manages it only via the stalk without a dedicated screen setting.

When Auto Wipers Might Not Work as Expected

Even when auto wipers are turned on, there are conditions where the system can behave unexpectedly from the driver’s perspective. Many of these issues are normal behavior, while some may indicate a fault or sensor obstruction.

Typical Limitations and Troubleshooting Steps

Understanding common limitations can help you decide whether you’re seeing a normal characteristic of the system or a problem that needs attention. The points below outline frequent scenarios and what they usually mean.

• Very light drizzle does not trigger wiping immediately – The sensor may delay wiping until enough droplets accumulate; increasing sensitivity on the stalk usually helps.
• Smears or poor detection – Dirt, wax, or stickers near the sensor area on the windshield can interfere; cleaning the glass and area around the rear-view mirror often resolves this.
• No automatic wiping at all – Check that you are in the AUTO/storm icon position and that any MMI rain-sensor setting is enabled; if both are correct, a dealership or qualified workshop may need to scan for sensor faults.
• Inconsistent wiping in snow or ice – Rain sensors are optimized for liquid water; in heavy snow, ice, or slush, manual control (LOW/HIGH) is usually more reliable.
• After a windshield replacement – If the rain sensor was not properly reinstalled or calibrated, automatic wipers may behave oddly or stop working; this requires professional recalibration.

Most irregularities can be traced to environmental conditions, dirty glass, or settings, but if basic checks don’t fix the issue, professional diagnostics are recommended to protect both safety and warranty coverage.

Safety Tips When Using Automatic Wipers

Auto wipers are a convenience feature, not a substitute for driver judgment. In some driving situations, taking manual control of the wipers is still the safest option, particularly when visibility must be absolutely consistent.

Best Practices on the Road

To get the most from Audi’s automatic wipers without compromising safety, keep a few habits in mind. The following recommendations are based on typical Audi owner manuals and general safe-driving practices.

• Do not rely solely on AUTO in extreme weather – In intense downpours, snowstorms, or at high speeds in standing water, switching to continuous LOW or HIGH can ensure your view stays clear.
• Adjust sensitivity proactively – If the windshield starts to blur in drizzle or spray from other vehicles, move the slider toward more frequent wiping rather than waiting for the sensor to react.
• Keep the windshield clean – Regularly clean the glass and replace wiper blades when they streak; the sensor can only interpret what reaches it through the glass.
• Know how to override quickly – Familiarize yourself with the position for LOW and HIGH speeds so you can switch instantly without taking your eyes off the road.
• Be cautious in tunnels and underpasses – Sudden changes in lighting can sometimes affect combined rain/light sensors; monitor how your wipers respond and override if needed.

By combining automatic functionality with active driver awareness, you can maximize both comfort and safety while driving in changing weather conditions.

Summary

Turning on auto wipers in an Audi typically involves moving the right-hand wiper stalk from OFF to the AUTO or raindrop icon position and, on many models, ensuring the rain sensor is enabled in the MMI’s vehicle settings. The rain/light sensor near the rear-view mirror then controls when and how fast the wipers operate, with sensitivity adjustable via a small slider or thumbwheel on the stalk.

While exact menu names and symbols vary across A‑series sedans, Q‑series SUVs, and e‑tron models, the principle is the same: use the AUTO position for sensor-controlled wiping and switch to LOW or HIGH for full manual control in very heavy rain, snow, or other challenging conditions. Keeping the windshield and sensor area clean, understanding the stalk symbols, and knowing how to override the system quickly will help you get the best performance from Audi’s automatic wiper technology.

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On at low you will be able to go ahead and just put it forward and you’ll get to see it for yourself. If you want to increase the velocity push it forward. And that will increase at a high speed to

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You can switch Audi pre sense and the associated system on or off in the Driver Assistance menu. The systems may only be switched on or off while the vehicle is stationary. If Audi pre sense is switched off, it will switch on again automatically once the ignition is switched on again.

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Down one stop below the off position to engage automatic rain sensing mode. The wiper speed will vary depending on the amount of moisture detected on the windshield.

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If held for several seconds the speed of the wipers. Will increase. Move the stock up one click from the off position for automatic rain sensing wiping. Starting with a single wipe on activation.