Activating Service Mode for MG ZS SUV Wiper Blades
The MG ZS SUV (both petrol and EV models from 2017 onwards) features a wiper system where the blades park in a low position under the bonnet lip for aesthetics and pedestrian safety. Lifting the arms without activating “service mode” can scrape the bonnet paint, as reported by many owners. Service mode raises the wipers to a vertical position on the windscreen, making it easier to clean, inspect, or replace the blades without damage. This is a standard feature outlined in the owner’s manual.
Steps to Enter Service Mode
Follow these steps carefully, based on the official MG ZS owner’s manual instructions. The process must be done with the bonnet closed and the vehicle stationary.
- Ensure the vehicle is powered off: Switch the ignition or power system to the OFF position (for EV models, press the START/STOP button to fully shut down without starting the car).
- Act within 20 seconds: Immediately after turning off the power, operate the wiper stalk switch by pressing it down (towards the intermittent or low-speed wipe position) and then releasing it. Do not hold it down—it’s a quick press and release.
- Wipers enter service position: The front wipers will automatically move to a vertical (upright) position on the windscreen and stop. This is the service mode, where you can safely lift the arms away from the glass for maintenance.
- Important notes:
- If you miss the 20-second window, restart the process (turn power on briefly, then off again).
- For some users, a slight variation works: Turn the ignition to ON (accessory mode without starting the engine), then OFF, and press/release the stalk down within the time limit.
- Always lay the wiper arms back down onto the windscreen before deactivating service mode to avoid damage.
- This applies to both left-hand drive (LHD) and right-hand drive (RHD) models, including facelifts up to 2025.
Steps to Exit Service Mode
- Place the wiper arms back on the windscreen if you’ve lifted them.
- Either:
- Press the wiper stalk down again and release (quick press), or
- Set the vehicle power mode to ON (start the car or enter accessory mode).
- The wipers will automatically sweep once and return to their normal parked position at the bottom of the windscreen.
Why Use Service Mode?
- Prevents paint damage: Lifting arms in the normal parked position causes them to hit the bonnet edge.
- Easier access: Ideal for replacing blades (driver’s side: 24 inches/600mm; passenger’s side: 14 inches/350mm) or cleaning debris.
- Owner experiences confirm this avoids common issues like chipped paint during washing or blade changes.
If these steps don’t work (e.g., due to a software update or specific trim), consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual (section on wiper maintenance, around page 313 for ZS models) or check the MG dealer app/website for videos. For visual guidance, search YouTube for “MG ZS wiper service position” (e.g., tutorials from MG owners show the exact stalk press). If you’re replacing blades, use OEM or compatible aftermarket ones with push-button fittings for a secure click-in installation.
We stock wiper blades for the MG ZS and you can choose from a selection of brands like Bosch and Valeo.