How to Turn On the Rear Wiper in an Audi Q5

To turn on the rear wiper in most Audi Q5 models, rotate the end of the right-hand stalk (the same stalk that controls the front wipers) to the rear-wiper symbol; a light twist activates intermittent wipe, and a further twist triggers a continuous wipe or rear-wash function, depending on model year. Below is a detailed, model-year-aware guide to help you locate and correctly use the rear wiper controls.

Understanding the Rear Wiper Controls on the Audi Q5

The Audi Q5 uses a multifunction stalk on the right side of the steering column to control both the front and rear wipers. While the basic operation has remained similar across generations, small differences exist between earlier and newer models, especially regarding auto settings and the wash function.

Step-by-Step: Turning On the Rear Wiper

The following steps explain how to activate the rear wiper on most Audi Q5 vehicles sold in Europe and North America, including first-generation (approx. 2009–2017), second-generation (approx. 2018–present), and current facelifted models. Always check your owner’s manual for exact instructions for your model year.

1. Locate the Wiper/Washer Stalk

Before following any specific action, it is important to identify the correct control stalk, since the Audi Q5’s right-hand stalk manages both front and rear wiping functions.

• The wiper/washer stalk is typically on the right side of the steering wheel.
• This stalk controls:
  

  • Front wiper speed and AUTO (rain-sensing) mode
  • Front washer spray
  • Rear wiper activation
  • Rear washer spray

• At the tip of this stalk, you should see symbols for the rear wiper:
  

  • A small rectangle (rear window) with an arched line (wiper blade)
  • A similar icon with spray lines indicating washer fluid

Once you have identified this right-hand stalk and its symbols, you are ready to adjust it to control the rear wiper correctly.

2. Basic Rear Wiper Operation (Most Model Years)

The next step is to learn how the usual twist-and-pull or twist-only mechanism works for the rear wiper, as Audi uses consistent iconography but slightly different logic depending on generation.

• Intermittent rear wipe:
  

  • Rotate the end of the right-hand wiper stalk one click (or a small twist) away from you toward the rear-wiper icon showing a simple wiper symbol.
  • This normally activates an intermittent wipe, with the rear wiper sweeping at timed intervals.

• Continuous rear wipe (if equipped):
  

  • On certain Q5 model years, twisting the end of the stalk further may switch from intermittent to continuous wiping.
  • Some versions combine this into a single intermittent setting and rely on the washer function for continuous wiping during spray.

• Rear wipe auto-off:
  

  • Return the stalk end to the neutral (center) position to turn off the rear wiper.
  • The wiper will complete its current sweep and then park at the bottom of the glass.

These basic actions cover day-to-day rear wiper use, giving you either intermittent or constant wiping depending on your Audi Q5’s specific configuration.

3. Using the Rear Washer Function

In addition to normal wiping, the Audi Q5 integrates washer jets for the rear glass. Knowing how to combine wiping and washing is crucial for clearing heavy dirt or salt from the rear window.

• Activate rear washer spray:
  

  • On many Q5 models, push the end of the wiper stalk inward (toward the steering column) to activate the rear washer.
  • On some earlier or region-specific versions, you may need to twist the stalk end further to a symbol showing the rear window with spray lines.

• Combined action:
  

  • When the rear washer is activated, the rear wiper typically starts wiping automatically, making several passes while fluid is sprayed.
  • After you release the control, an extra wipe or two usually follows to clear residual droplets.

• Stopping washer and wipe:
  

  • Release pressure or return the stalk to the neutral or previous twist position.
  • The wiper will park automatically once the cycle is finished.

Using the washer in this way ensures both the fluid and wiper blade work together, quickly restoring rearward visibility without needing to adjust multiple controls separately.

Model-Year and Trim Differences

While the fundamental logic of twist-to-activate remains similar, subtle changes exist between different Q5 generations and trims, especially those with advanced driver assistance packages or high-end lighting/wiper systems.

First-Generation Q5 (Approximately 2009–2017)

Early Audi Q5 models use a fairly straightforward, mostly mechanical-feel stalk where each position is clearly notched and labeled with icons.

• Rear intermittent wipe: one twist on the end of the right stalk toward the rear-wiper symbol.
• Rear continuous wipe or wash:
  

  • In many early models, pushing the stalk forward or twisting further toward the washer symbol triggers the spray and multiple wipes.
  • The exact movement can vary slightly by market; consult the glovebox owner’s manual for symbols that match your stalk.

• Integration with front wipers:
  

  • Some early Q5s automatically start the rear wiper when reversing if the front wipers are already on, improving visibility in rain or snow.

Owners of first-generation Q5s will generally find the rear wiper controls intuitive, with the main difference being whether the washer requires pushing or additional twisting of the stalk.

Second-Generation and Current Q5 (Approx. 2018–Present)

Newer Audi Q5 models, including the latest facelift versions, retain the same basic layout but may add smarter logic related to rain sensors and reverse gear.

• Intermittent rear wipe:
  

  • Twist the end of the right stalk toward the rear wiper icon (single wiper on a rectangular window).
  • This usually gives a standard intermittent interval controlled by the vehicle’s electronics.

• Rear washer function:
  

  • Commonly activated by pushing the stalk end inward or twisting further to the washer icon, depending on your exact model year and region.
  • The instrument cluster may briefly show a symbol indicating the rear washer is in use.

• Automatic rear wipe in reverse:
  

  • Many modern Q5 vehicles can be set (via the MMI settings) to:
    

    • Automatically activate the rear wiper when you shift into reverse
    • Only if the front wipers are currently operating

  • This feature can typically be turned on or off in the “Vehicle” or “Exterior” settings menu in the infotainment system.

These more recent models maintain the same basic user action—twist for rear wipe—but add software-driven assists to improve convenience in bad weather or tight parking scenarios.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Rear wiper problems are usually straightforward to diagnose: they are often related to fuse issues, a worn blade, frozen hinges, or washer fluid problems. Understanding these can prevent unnecessary visits to the workshop.

Rear Wiper Does Not Move

If the control seems correctly set but the rear wiper does not activate, a few basic checks can help narrow down the cause.

• Check the obvious first:
  

  • Ensure the ignition is on or the vehicle is in accessory mode; many Q5s do not power wipers when fully off.
  • Verify that you have twisted the stalk end firmly to the rear-wiper symbol.

• Inspect for ice or obstruction:
  

  • In winter, the rear wiper arm can freeze to the glass; forcing it might damage the motor.
  • Clear snow/ice by hand and use the rear defroster before trying again.

• Check the fuse:
  

  • A blown fuse can disable the rear wiper motor.
  • Use the fuse diagram in your Q5’s manual to locate the wiper fuse and inspect it; replace with the exact same rating if it is blown.

• Seek professional diagnosis if needed:
  

  • If fuses, ice, and control positions are not the issue, the problem may be a failed motor or wiring fault.
  • A technician with Audi-compatible diagnostic tools can check for stored fault codes.

Working through these basic checks helps determine whether the issue is user error, weather-related, or a component failure that requires professional attention.

Rear Washer Not Spraying

Washer issues are common in colder climates or when the fluid reservoir is low; the steps below can help you identify the likely cause.

• Verify washer fluid level:
  

  • The rear washer typically shares the same reservoir as the front.
  • If the front washers are weak or not spraying either, refill the washer fluid with a season-appropriate solution.

• Check for frozen lines:
  

  • In freezing temperatures, water-heavy fluid can freeze in the narrow hose that runs to the tailgate.
  • Use winter-grade washer fluid and allow the car to warm up to thaw the lines.

• Inspect the rear nozzle:
  

  • Dirt or wax buildup can block the tiny nozzle on the rear window.
  • Gently clean it with a soft brush or a thin piece of plastic (avoid metal pins that can damage it).

• Check for leaks:
  

  • If you hear the pump but see no spray, a hose inside the tailgate or along the rear headliner may have come loose.
  • Look for damp trim or headliner; leaks may require trimming removal and dealer assistance.

By checking fluid levels, potential freezing, and nozzle condition, you can often restore rear washer function without major repair work.

Tips for Effective and Safe Rear Wiper Use

Proper rear wiper use goes beyond simply turning it on; the way you maintain the system affects visibility, blade life, and even the risk of scratching the rear glass.

Maintenance and Best Practices

The following guidelines can help you keep the rear wiper system in good working order and maximize visibility in bad weather.

• Replace blades regularly:
  

  • Rear wiper blades tend to last 1–2 years, depending on climate and usage.
  • Streaking, skipping, or noise are signs that replacement is due.

• Never run the wiper on dry, dirty glass:
  

  • Dry wiping over grit can scratch the rear window and wear out the blade faster.
  • Use the washer or clean the glass manually before prolonged use.

• Use winter washer fluid in cold climates:
  

  • A fluid rated for sub-zero temperatures helps avoid frozen lines and improves cleaning of road salt.

• Be cautious in car washes:
  

  • Some automatic car washes can catch rear wiper arms.
  • If instructed, switch off automatic wipers and fold the rear wiper down per the wash operator’s guidance.

• Check settings after service or software updates:
  

  • On newer Q5s, dealer updates or battery disconnections can reset MMI settings.
  • Reconfirm automatic rear wipe in reverse if you rely on that feature.

These simple habits help ensure that when you twist the stalk to activate the rear wiper, it works efficiently and safely in all conditions.

Summary

To turn on the rear wiper in an Audi Q5, locate the right-hand wiper/washer stalk and twist the end toward the rear-wiper icon for intermittent wiping, with some models offering an additional twist or push for continuous wipe and washer spray. The exact feel and symbols can vary slightly between early and current generations, but the core principle—using the tip of the right stalk for rear wiper and washer control—remains consistent. Keeping blades maintained, washer fluid topped up, and understanding auto features such as reverse-activated wiping ensures clear rear visibility and safer driving in rain, snow, or road grime.