I'm wanting to add the Rain Sensor and Auto Head Lights to my 3i which doesn't currently have it and was wondering what is needed to do this. I've read other places that it costs in excess of $2000 for this but that can't be right. That seems ridiculously high. But I want it to be factory and not aftermarket. I know that there are companies that sell these kits but I want it to be Mazda. Obviously I know I'm going to have to buy the new headlight and wiper stalks on the steering column but what else is needed to do this. Where do the wires go and are there already plugs for me to plug them in to. I thought maybe everything would be prewired and all I would have to do is mount the sensors on the windshield and plug them in. But can someone please give me some adivce. Thanks.
derrick693
Best advice is to start making a list of what you absolutely must have on your next vehicle. Somethings are just not feasible or practical - like replacing the windshield, for a start, to get the correct mounts for the sensor. Though you don't mention it - the nav is the same story. I just has to come from the factory. By the time you add up parts, labor, and headaches - you're well on the way to a hefty down payment on an upgraded MZ3.
That was probably me that quoted that price. The $2k isn't even for the entire system, that's just for the control box that lives up in the headliner.
Sealy, the windshield isn't anything special (as far as I know). The sensor should just adhere to the surface, and shouldn't require anything special from the glass. I mean, it's just a windshield.
Sealy, the windshield isn't anything special (as far as I know). The sensor should just adhere to the surface, and shouldn't require anything special from the glass. I mean, it's just a windshield.
[quote author=Sealy link=topic=62322.msg1067592#msg1067592 date=1163548915]
Check the posts from the new guy in MD with the botched mirror install. They broke the bracket and had to order the windshield - it is special. As well as having the black surround.
[/quote]That'd be me, and this is the thread: http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.php?topic=61403.0
On the 07 GT's (the only M3 I have any experience with) the rain sensor is "attached" to the windshield via a clip that is ONLY available with a new windshield. Actually, it's not just a clip, but some type of lense as well. Then there is the actual rain sensor box, the cover for the mirror to go around the sensor, and a harness going up into the headliner... From there, I have NFC.
You might want to give bagman1 from onlinemazdaparts.com a PM (or email) He seems to be able to get the information for all these various subsystems, and can even quote prices. However, if the first sentence of his reply includes the suggestion that you sit down... Then the cost would be sick. Actually, I _am_ curious how much a replacement rain sensor goes for - considering that I'm on my 3rd one of them (all replaced because of incompetent mazda service techs - and all replaced via warranty.)
Take care
Gary
Check the posts from the new guy in MD with the botched mirror install. They broke the bracket and had to order the windshield - it is special. As well as having the black surround.
[/quote]That'd be me, and this is the thread: http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.php?topic=61403.0
On the 07 GT's (the only M3 I have any experience with) the rain sensor is "attached" to the windshield via a clip that is ONLY available with a new windshield. Actually, it's not just a clip, but some type of lense as well. Then there is the actual rain sensor box, the cover for the mirror to go around the sensor, and a harness going up into the headliner... From there, I have NFC.
You might want to give bagman1 from onlinemazdaparts.com a PM (or email) He seems to be able to get the information for all these various subsystems, and can even quote prices. However, if the first sentence of his reply includes the suggestion that you sit down... Then the cost would be sick. Actually, I _am_ curious how much a replacement rain sensor goes for - considering that I'm on my 3rd one of them (all replaced because of incompetent mazda service techs - and all replaced via warranty.)
Take care
Gary
[quote author=Sealy link=topic=62322.msg1067432#msg1067432 date=1163545276]
Best advice is to start making a list of what you absolutely must have on your next vehicle. Somethings are just not feasible or practical - like replacing the windshield, for a start, to get the correct mounts for the sensor. Though you don't mention it - the nav is the same story. I just has to come from the factory. By the time you add up parts, labor, and headaches - you're well on the way to a hefty down payment on an upgraded MZ3.
[/quote]
Thanks for the advice but I already have the car and I don't plan on getting rid of it anytime soon. As a college student, this was my first car that I purchased on my own and everytime I look at it I get a sense of pride because I did it on my own, so even thinking out getting a new 3 with the options I want isn't going to happen. I'll just have to add the options I want to my current car.
I like all the advice I'm getting about this, but what exactly is needed to add this to my car? Has anyone tried to do this modification? I really like the idea of having auto wipers and auto headlights. It seems really cool so if it is possible to add these then I would want to do it if it was financially feasible.
Best advice is to start making a list of what you absolutely must have on your next vehicle. Somethings are just not feasible or practical - like replacing the windshield, for a start, to get the correct mounts for the sensor. Though you don't mention it - the nav is the same story. I just has to come from the factory. By the time you add up parts, labor, and headaches - you're well on the way to a hefty down payment on an upgraded MZ3.
[/quote]
Thanks for the advice but I already have the car and I don't plan on getting rid of it anytime soon. As a college student, this was my first car that I purchased on my own and everytime I look at it I get a sense of pride because I did it on my own, so even thinking out getting a new 3 with the options I want isn't going to happen. I'll just have to add the options I want to my current car.
I like all the advice I'm getting about this, but what exactly is needed to add this to my car? Has anyone tried to do this modification? I really like the idea of having auto wipers and auto headlights. It seems really cool so if it is possible to add these then I would want to do it if it was financially feasible.
[quote author=Derrick693 link=topic=62322.msg1068369#msg1068369 date=1163586784]I like all the advice I'm getting about this, but what exactly is needed to add this to my car? Has anyone tried to do this modification? I really like the idea of having auto wipers and auto headlights. It seems really cool so if it is possible to add these then I would want to do it if it was financially feasible.
[/quote]
as I posted earlier:
[/quote]
as I posted earlier:
He also has a subforum here that he seems to monitor closely. Look for onlinemazdaparts.com in the sponsor area.
[quote author=Derrick693 link=topic=62322.msg1068369#msg1068369 date=1163586784]
I really like the idea of having auto wipers and auto headlights. It seems really cool so if it is possible to add these then I would want to do it if it was financially feasible.
[/quote]
What is your definition of financially feasible? If the controls box runs around 2K like icspots said, the parts alone are going to be expensive before you even start thinking about installing them. Are auto-wipers really worth $2000?
Andrew Beard
I really like the idea of having auto wipers and auto headlights. It seems really cool so if it is possible to add these then I would want to do it if it was financially feasible.
[/quote]
What is your definition of financially feasible? If the controls box runs around 2K like icspots said, the parts alone are going to be expensive before you even start thinking about installing them. Are auto-wipers really worth $2000?
Andrew Beard
[quote author=Sealy link=topic=62322.msg1067592#msg1067592 date=1163548915]
Check the posts from the new guy in MD with the botched mirror install. They broke the bracket and had to order the windshield - it is special. As well as having the black surround.
[/quote]
gotcha. Learn something new every day.
Check the posts from the new guy in MD with the botched mirror install. They broke the bracket and had to order the windshield - it is special. As well as having the black surround.
[/quote]
gotcha. Learn something new every day.
So I've been getting some info that adding the Auto Wiper portion would cost way to much money because of some computer module that goes into the headliner, but the Auto Headlight section seems feasible. I'm thinking that I just need to add the sensor and run the wires and attach a new light stalk but I can't be certain. If anyone has any information about any of these two systems please let me know.
I'm wondering if I can buy the sensor that goes below the RV mirror and the head light switch and connect everything and maybe I'll have Auto Headlights. I know the Rain Sensor needs the control box but I don't know if the Auto Headlights need it. But I don't know how the sensor is wired. Is the wiring harness there for non-equipped models? If someone with the Auto Headlights/ Auto Wipers could tell me where their sensor connects to I would greatly appreciate it.
[quote author=Derrick693 link=topic=62322.msg1110686#msg1110686 date=1166437037]
I'm wondering if I can buy the sensor that goes below the RV mirror and the head light switch and connect everything and maybe I'll have Auto Headlights. I know the Rain Sensor needs the control box but I don't know if the Auto Headlights need it. But I don't know how the sensor is wired. Is the wiring harness there for non-equipped models? If someone with the Auto Headlights/ Auto Wipers could tell me where their sensor connects to I would greatly appreciate it.
[/quote]
There's actually a JDM auto-light accessory. It's rumored to be hard to find though. It's an easy install, and the sensor will mount in the corner of your dash. I'd check that out before trying to gimmick something up.
I'm wondering if I can buy the sensor that goes below the RV mirror and the head light switch and connect everything and maybe I'll have Auto Headlights. I know the Rain Sensor needs the control box but I don't know if the Auto Headlights need it. But I don't know how the sensor is wired. Is the wiring harness there for non-equipped models? If someone with the Auto Headlights/ Auto Wipers could tell me where their sensor connects to I would greatly appreciate it.
[/quote]
There's actually a JDM auto-light accessory. It's rumored to be hard to find though. It's an easy install, and the sensor will mount in the corner of your dash. I'd check that out before trying to gimmick something up.
yeah i've read about them but i'm trying to keep everything in the car factory, so if it's possible to get the factory sensor and add it to the windshield and just replace the light stalk then i'm all for it. but first i need to know if the wiring is already there because if the wire isn't there already, then i'll just pass on the whole thing. i'm not going to go through the hassle of running wires just for auto headlights or auto wipers, i just thought it'd be a nice upgrade if it was possible. so if anyone can please check where the sensor and control box for the auto wipers connect to and take a picture then i can verify if my car has the wires there already so maybe all i have to do is add the components and have a working auto headlights/ auto wipers.
Ummm. JDM accessories are factory parts. You're not adding some mickey-mouse aftermarket part if you get the JDM auto-lights as it's still made by Mazda.
JDM = Japanese Domestic Market
EDM = European Domestic Market
Basically they're the factory options/accessories/parts for the same car in a different country.
EDM = European Domestic Market
Basically they're the factory options/accessories/parts for the same car in a different country.
Auto Head Lights - I am going to say yes, they are pretty cool.
Rain Sensor - It will piss you off more than anything. Granted they are pretty cool, but sometimes they will go f-ing nuts in a drizzle. Also, if you live in a snowy area and forget to turn them off before you warm up your car and you have snow on the windshield - you can bust a wiper or get get it off track and catch the other one like it did. Or that pile of snow will be on you if you leave the door open. Dealer made me feel retarded for trying to brush snow off with my wipers.
I would wait for your next car - it's not the best feature.
Rain Sensor - It will piss you off more than anything. Granted they are pretty cool, but sometimes they will go f-ing nuts in a drizzle. Also, if you live in a snowy area and forget to turn them off before you warm up your car and you have snow on the windshield - you can bust a wiper or get get it off track and catch the other one like it did. Or that pile of snow will be on you if you leave the door open. Dealer made me feel retarded for trying to brush snow off with my wipers.
I would wait for your next car - it's not the best feature.
I've been getting quotes for a new windshield on my 07 - have a big crack from a rock 
Every glass place i called asked if the car has a rain sensor (mine doesn't). My windshield will set me back about $200. If it had the rain sensor, I'd be looking at over $600 for the glass.
Not sure whats on that glass, but they're mighty proud of it.
Combine this cost with the controller, wiring harness, different wiper stalk, & installation - I can easily see over $2K for factory rain sensor.
Every glass place i called asked if the car has a rain sensor (mine doesn't). My windshield will set me back about $200. If it had the rain sensor, I'd be looking at over $600 for the glass.
Not sure whats on that glass, but they're mighty proud of it.
Combine this cost with the controller, wiring harness, different wiper stalk, & installation - I can easily see over $2K for factory rain sensor.
[quote author=tbaltz link=topic=62322.msg1136270#msg1136270 date=1168117539]
I've been getting quotes for a new windshield on my 07 - have a big crack from a rock
Every glass place i called asked if the car has a rain sensor (mine doesn't). My windshield will set me back about $200. If it had the rain sensor, I'd be looking at over $600 for the glass.
Not sure whats on that glass, but they're mighty proud of it.
Combine this cost with the controller, wiring harness, different wiper stalk, & installation - I can easily see over $2K for factory rain sensor.
[/quote]
The thing with the mazda 3 is it is all prewired. The only thing you have to buy would be
1)the sensor on the windshield(controls auto lights and wipers)
2)The wiper switch and the light switch
3)the roof harness
and as far as i know thats all you need. I have looked in to it with the wiper stalk and apparently they are exactly the same. You might just need a different relay which would be a couple bucks
Thats what i have come up with but there is always a good possibility that there is more that i do not know about
I've been getting quotes for a new windshield on my 07 - have a big crack from a rock
Every glass place i called asked if the car has a rain sensor (mine doesn't). My windshield will set me back about $200. If it had the rain sensor, I'd be looking at over $600 for the glass.
Not sure whats on that glass, but they're mighty proud of it.
Combine this cost with the controller, wiring harness, different wiper stalk, & installation - I can easily see over $2K for factory rain sensor.
[/quote]
The thing with the mazda 3 is it is all prewired. The only thing you have to buy would be
1)the sensor on the windshield(controls auto lights and wipers)
2)The wiper switch and the light switch
3)the roof harness
and as far as i know thats all you need. I have looked in to it with the wiper stalk and apparently they are exactly the same. You might just need a different relay which would be a couple bucks
Thats what i have come up with but there is always a good possibility that there is more that i do not know about
[quote author=my_mazda3 link=topic=62322.msg1136979#msg1136979 date=1168158909]
[quote author=tbaltz link=topic=62322.msg1136270#msg1136270 date=1168117539]
I've been getting quotes for a new windshield on my 07 - have a big crack from a rock
Every glass place i called asked if the car has a rain sensor (mine doesn't). My windshield will set me back about $200. If it had the rain sensor, I'd be looking at over $600 for the glass.
Not sure whats on that glass, but they're mighty proud of it.
Combine this cost with the controller, wiring harness, different wiper stalk, & installation - I can easily see over $2K for factory rain sensor.
[/quote]
The thing with the mazda 3 is it is all prewired. The only thing you have to buy would be
1)the sensor on the windshield(controls auto lights and wipers)
2)The wiper switch and the light switch
3)the roof harness
and as far as i know thats all you need. I have looked in to it with the wiper stalk and apparently they are exactly the same. You might just need a different relay which would be a couple bucks
Thats what i have come up with but there is always a good possibility that there is more that i do not know about
[/quote]
Hmmmm... I am not so sure about that. Especially the radio portion. If you don't have it, it won't be wired. Am I wrong? Take the e-brake for nav. If your car doesnt come with nav, you won't have that in the harness, same with cell phone mute.
[quote author=tbaltz link=topic=62322.msg1136270#msg1136270 date=1168117539]
I've been getting quotes for a new windshield on my 07 - have a big crack from a rock
Every glass place i called asked if the car has a rain sensor (mine doesn't). My windshield will set me back about $200. If it had the rain sensor, I'd be looking at over $600 for the glass.
Not sure whats on that glass, but they're mighty proud of it.
Combine this cost with the controller, wiring harness, different wiper stalk, & installation - I can easily see over $2K for factory rain sensor.
[/quote]
The thing with the mazda 3 is it is all prewired. The only thing you have to buy would be
1)the sensor on the windshield(controls auto lights and wipers)
2)The wiper switch and the light switch
3)the roof harness
and as far as i know thats all you need. I have looked in to it with the wiper stalk and apparently they are exactly the same. You might just need a different relay which would be a couple bucks
Thats what i have come up with but there is always a good possibility that there is more that i do not know about
[/quote]
Hmmmm... I am not so sure about that. Especially the radio portion. If you don't have it, it won't be wired. Am I wrong? Take the e-brake for nav. If your car doesnt come with nav, you won't have that in the harness, same with cell phone mute.
[quote author=ambiguity link=topic=62322.msg1136995#msg1136995 date=1168160736]
[quote author=my_mazda3 link=topic=62322.msg1136979#msg1136979 date=1168158909]
[quote author=tbaltz link=topic=62322.msg1136270#msg1136270 date=1168117539]
I've been getting quotes for a new windshield on my 07 - have a big crack from a rock
Every glass place i called asked if the car has a rain sensor (mine doesn't). My windshield will set me back about $200. If it had the rain sensor, I'd be looking at over $600 for the glass.
Not sure whats on that glass, but they're mighty proud of it.
Combine this cost with the controller, wiring harness, different wiper stalk, & installation - I can easily see over $2K for factory rain sensor.
[/quote]
The thing with the mazda 3 is it is all prewired. The only thing you have to buy would be
1)the sensor on the windshield(controls auto lights and wipers)
2)The wiper switch and the light switch
3)the roof harness
and as far as i know thats all you need. I have looked in to it with the wiper stalk and apparently they are exactly the same. You might just need a different relay which would be a couple bucks
Thats what i have come up with but there is always a good possibility that there is more that i do not know about
[/quote]
Hmmmm... I am not so sure about that. Especially the radio portion. If you don't have it, it won't be wired. Am I wrong? Take the e-brake for nav. If your car doesnt come with nav, you won't have that in the harness, same with cell phone mute.
[/quote]
WHat does this mean?? kinda confused by what you are trying to get at. "Especially the radio portion. If you don't have it, it won't be wired. Am I wrong? Take the e-brake for nav"
I have had my car apart and where the roof harness meets the cars harness there are extra wires on the car side. I am not sure what they are for but i would assume that they are for the rain and headlight sensor. Also for the nav ad telephone mute there is 1 big unused connector in the front where the radio sits and as far as i know it is for the nav system and also the telephone mute. (I purchased the wiring book for the car and according to the book thats what the connector is for)
Not trying to come across rude or anything but from what i have looked in to that is what i have come up with.
[quote author=my_mazda3 link=topic=62322.msg1136979#msg1136979 date=1168158909]
[quote author=tbaltz link=topic=62322.msg1136270#msg1136270 date=1168117539]
I've been getting quotes for a new windshield on my 07 - have a big crack from a rock
Every glass place i called asked if the car has a rain sensor (mine doesn't). My windshield will set me back about $200. If it had the rain sensor, I'd be looking at over $600 for the glass.
Not sure whats on that glass, but they're mighty proud of it.
Combine this cost with the controller, wiring harness, different wiper stalk, & installation - I can easily see over $2K for factory rain sensor.
[/quote]
The thing with the mazda 3 is it is all prewired. The only thing you have to buy would be
1)the sensor on the windshield(controls auto lights and wipers)
2)The wiper switch and the light switch
3)the roof harness
and as far as i know thats all you need. I have looked in to it with the wiper stalk and apparently they are exactly the same. You might just need a different relay which would be a couple bucks
Thats what i have come up with but there is always a good possibility that there is more that i do not know about
[/quote]
Hmmmm... I am not so sure about that. Especially the radio portion. If you don't have it, it won't be wired. Am I wrong? Take the e-brake for nav. If your car doesnt come with nav, you won't have that in the harness, same with cell phone mute.
[/quote]
WHat does this mean?? kinda confused by what you are trying to get at. "Especially the radio portion. If you don't have it, it won't be wired. Am I wrong? Take the e-brake for nav"
I have had my car apart and where the roof harness meets the cars harness there are extra wires on the car side. I am not sure what they are for but i would assume that they are for the rain and headlight sensor. Also for the nav ad telephone mute there is 1 big unused connector in the front where the radio sits and as far as i know it is for the nav system and also the telephone mute. (I purchased the wiring book for the car and according to the book thats what the connector is for)
Not trying to come across rude or anything but from what i have looked in to that is what i have come up with.
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