RE: PoWer Window problem (long fix)
PoSTED BY: Bob '89 325i
Date: Saturday, 17/6/2000, 2:01 p.m.

In Response To: Power Window problem (Meckely)

A month ago, my passenger power window stopped working and this is the series of steps I took. Now it works great all the time.

First, check to see if the circuit breaker is engaged. Mine is on the lower console just forward of the right side window switch. I know this sounds obvious, but it's easy to overlook.

Second, check the operation of the switch itself. Carefully pry the switch up from the console. You may need to pry the shift lever boot out of its hole first. Then you can push the switch up from beneath. If you have a Bentley manual, look at the schematic and check for correct voltages at the connectors in the socket. Check to see if the ground is good, too. I also checked the tabs on the switch for continuity based on the schematic.

This is also a good time to disassemble the switch and clean the contacts. If all seems OK, then proceed to the door. We are assuming at this point that voltage is getting to the motor. BTW, if only one window is inoperable you can swap switches left and right to see if you've got a defective one. Assuming the switch is OK, then move on.

For this next step, you need to remove the interior panel. Bentley's will help you with instructions too, but basically you have to unscrew the knob for the lock. Then remove the trim piece around the latch by sliding it to the rear and lifting it out. Then remove the armrest with 3 screws. Two are underneath and one is behind the little plastic plate up top. Just pry it out. Then unsnap the panel, starting from the bottom and lift it away from the window seal at the top. Expect a few of the little plastic fasteners to break. Ask your local BMW mechanic fofor a Few replacements. They're cheap. Now carefully peel back the plastic so you can get to the motor and mechanics inside. Don't remove all of the plastic, though.

Loosen the 10mm nut facing you and try to lower the window tapping the down button on the console switch. This is the point where mine started working! (what a joyous little sound). I lowered the window about 1-2 mm and then retightened the nut. Apparently, the motor was forcing the window up just a hair too far, causing the motor to stop at a bad place.

This is also a good time to lubricate the tracks inside the door. Tri_Flow works well. WD40 is too light.

Total time from start to finish (complete with reassembly was under an hour). Not too bad.

If this doesn't work, then you need to deal with the motor itself. Check to see if it is getting power. If it is, then I'd remove it, check and clean all electrical contacts and see if that helps. Perhaps a replacement is needed.

Since this is where my EXPERIENCE ends, I'll stop giving advice too...