Have you ever tried to roll down your BMW window while cruising on the road only to get stuck midway? Annoying, right? If your BMW window regulator is faulty, your window will not roll up or down or will do so at a slow or jerky pace or even get jammed in the middle. But you don’t need to get scared, as fixing your Bimmers window doesn’t take much time or cost much money. Knowing what causes this problem and how it gets fixed will go a long way in helping you tackle this stubborn BMW window regulator failure.
Possible Reasons Why BMW Window Regulators Get Damaged
Window regulator problems, in most BMWs, are attributed to factors like normal wear, plastic parts, cables, and motor problems. When abused constantly, some parts of the regulator, especially the cables or the plastic parts, will wear out gradually. Some of the BMW regulators employ plastic components known to crack at very low temperatures. Cable problems are also prevalent; cables wear out, break, or become detached from their runners, hindering window operation. While regulator issues are more common than motor failures, a faulty window motor can affect regulator operation and necessitate checks on both the motor and regulator for proper functionality.
Window Regulator Repair or Replacement Guide
- Diagnose the Issue: First, it is necessary to check whether the problem is in the regulator or an electrical problem. Look for the fuse that controls the power window in the fuse area. If it’s blown, replace it and see if this will remedy the situation. You can also check the condition of the power window switch to see if the control is the problem. Press the window switch, and if you hear a click, then try to roll it down. If you hear the motor running but the window remains still, then the regulator is probably damaged. If the motor has no sound, then there might be an electrical problem with the switch or motor.
- Inspect the Window Track: Sometimes, dirt might accumulate in the window track, resisting the smooth operation of the window. Take time to scan the track because there may be an object that is preventing the window from closing. Cleaning the track may sometimes solve such problems, but cleaning will not solve the issue if the regulator is damaged.
- Remove the Door Panel: Next, cautiously remove the door panel after loosening the fasteners. Then, using a pry tool, gently remove the panel. The electrical connectors and clips should be approached with care so they are not damaged while taking out the door panel.
- Take Out the Old Regulator: After the door panel has been taken off, it is time to take off the window glass from the regulator. Then, unscrew the bolts which secure the regulator and pull it out of the door.
- Install the New Regulator: Install the new regulator in position, fix it with the bolts, and then fix the window glass. Make sure all is tight, then run this regulator for a while to ensure it is running freely before reattaching the door panel.
- Seek Professional Help: If the above steps sound a bit too complicated, or if you are not in a position to do it yourself, then it’s advisable to seek the services of a mechanic. They can guarantee that the repair work is done correctly and help you avoid compounding the problems.
Who Should You Entrust Your BMW Window Repair To In Powell
If you notice any abnormal patterns in how your BMW window works, take it to a reputable mechanic for inspection. Our team at Auto Assets is capable of identifying the problems of window regulators and fixing them so that you can roll up or down your windows as you wish.
As the leading repair shop in Powell, OH, we ensure that every vehicle brought to our garage receives the personalized service it deserves. We have been serving European car owners in Powell since 1990, and our service extends to drivers from nearby areas such as New Albany, Worthington, Columbus, and Dublin, OH. Call or visit us now to keep your BMW in the best shape!
* Grey BMW 3 Series Car image credit goes to: A_Columbo.