Molly Ayala
BMW E36 electric windows are known to malfunction, with issues ranging from windows not closing properly to windows getting stuck. While maintenance for the BMW E36 is generally not challenging, repairing window regulators is an exception. Before attempting a complex repair, it is recommended to try simpler solutions, such as re-initializing the window or performing a reset procedure. If the problem persists, more extensive repairs may be required, including removing the door panel, replacing the window motor, or addressing issues with the regulator arms and teeth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Window Issue | Not closing all the way, not dropping on opening, stuck |
| Causes | Malfunctioning motor, Regulator issues, damaged teeth, faulty alarm system, poor battery |
| Fixes | Re-learn tolerances, reset procedures, replace regulator, replace motor, re-initialize |
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What You'll Learn
Resetting the window
There are a few different methods to reset the windows, depending on the issue and the model of your car. One method is to start with the window all the way down and the door closed. Then, press and hold the up button to close the window. Once the window is fully closed, continue to hold the button for 5 seconds. Release the button, and then hold it up again for another 2 seconds.
Another method is to first close the latch manually. Then, using the rear window switch, lower the window fully. Next, raise the window about 2 inches, then lower it fully again and hold for 6 seconds. Repeat this process 3 times. Then, raise the window fully, lower it by 2 inches, and raise it fully again, holding for 6 seconds each time and repeating this 3 times. Finally, wait 10 seconds, and the initialization will be complete.
If the window is stuck open, it may be due to a blown fuse. Replacing the fuse may resolve the issue and allow the window to be closed and reset.
If the window is not dropping when the door is opened to allow clearance for the soft top, a reset may help. Close the door and run the window all the way up, continuing to hold the button for 10 seconds. Then, immediately run the window all the way down and hold for another 10 seconds.
If the window is still not functioning properly after attempting these reset procedures, the issue may be with the window regulator or motor, which may need to be replaced.
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Re-initialising the window
If your BMW E36 electric windows are not functioning properly, you may need to re-initialise them. This process is necessary following replacement of a power window motor or a door module, or following any repair to the power window mechanical system.
The re-initialisation procedure is divided into two parts: standardisation and learning the characteristic curve. In the case of standardisation, the mechanical end stops of the power window are learned. For learning the characteristic curve, the mechanical closing forces in the power window are recorded.
- Start with the window fully down and the door closed.
- Press and hold the up button to close the window.
- After the window is completely closed, continue to hold the button for at least 5 seconds, and up to 10 seconds to be sure.
- Once the window is initialised, run it back down and hold the button for another 5-10 seconds.
This procedure should help the window learn its limits and re-enable the tip function. It is important to note that this process must be performed with the power window switch on each door.
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Replacing the window motor
Window motors are a common problem in BMW E36s. If your window is not working, the window motor is usually the first thing to check. To test the window motor, you must first remove the door panel and the foam insulation inside to access the regulator and motor. Try not to tear the insulation, as replacement parts from BMW can be costly.
Once the door panel is removed, there are two ways to test the motor. If you have a voltmeter, pull the power cable from the motor. If it is getting power when the switch is held down but the motor is unresponsive, you likely have a faulty motor. The second option is to tap the metal portion of the motor with a mallet. If the motor works after being tapped, you have a bad motor. Do not be fooled into thinking you have fixed the motor by tapping it with a mallet, as it will likely fail again soon.
If your motor has completely failed, try to give it a whack with a mallet to get it to work temporarily. If this does not work, you will need to replace the motor. Unfortunately, BMW used rivets to hold the regulator to the door frame, which must be removed to take out the motor. You can drill out the rivets, but this can be time-consuming due to the hard material used. Alternatively, you can use a nail set to punch out the centre of the rivets.
After removing the rivets, you can access the motor from the backside of the regulator and unscrew it. Be sure to position the window completely up before attempting to remove the motor, and do not try to remove the rivets with the window down, as you will risk breaking the window.
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Fixing the regulator
First, you will need to remove the door panel to access the regulator and motor. This is a delicate process, and it is important not to break any plastic clips or damage the wires. Start by checking the armrest for screws, which may be hidden under plugs. Gently pull the panel away from the door, being careful not to break the plastic clips. Lift the panel up to loosen the top edge, and then unplug the speakers, courtesy light, and any other components before placing the panel safely in the trunk.
Next, you will need to remove the foam insulation. Be cautious not to tear this, as replacement foam from BMW can be expensive. With the foam removed, you will now be able to see the window motor and regulator.
The regulator is riveted to the door frame, and these rivets must be removed to access the motor. This can be a challenging task due to the tough material BMW used for the rivets. You can drill out the rivets or use a nail set to punch out their centers.
With the rivets removed, you can now detach the regulator and replace it with a new one. Ensure that you also address any issues with the regulator arms, window slide clips, and teeth, as these can also cause problems with the window operation.
Finally, reassemble the door panel, making sure to reconnect all wires and components properly. Test the window operation to ensure that it is now functioning correctly.
While this process can be time-consuming and challenging, it is possible to fix the regulator on a BMW E36 window with patience and careful attention to each step.
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Removing the door panel
To remove the door panel of a BMW E36, start by checking the armrest for screws. There may be plugs over the holes, but they should be right behind the pull handle, with two screws probably being Phillips-head. Gently yank these out.
Next, pull the bottom and sides of the panel out away from the door. Be careful not to break the plastic clips that hold the panel in place. Then, lift the panel to get the top edge loose. Be careful here, as the door panel may fall apart. Once loose, unplug the speakers, courtesy light, etc. Place the door panel in the trunk so it won't be damaged.
Now, carefully pull at the edges of the black foam sheet that is exposed. Don't tear it, as you will need to put it back to avoid wind noise and drafts. Once you've removed the foam, you will see the window motor and regulator.
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Frequently asked questions
The window motor could be faulty. This is a common issue with BMW E36s. To test the window motor, remove the door panel and the foam insulation inside to access the regulator and motor. If the motor is getting current when the switch is held down but the motor is not working, then you likely have a faulty motor.
You will need to replace the motor. This will involve removing the rivets that hold the regulator to the door frame. BMW uses a hard material for these rivets, so drilling them out can take a long time. Alternatively, you can use a nail set to punch out the centre of the rivets.
The window probably needs to be re-initialised. Try the 16-second reset: close the door and run the window all the way up, then continue holding the button for 10 seconds. Then, run the window all the way down and hold for another 10 seconds.
The window regulator could be faulty. Check the regulator arms and the regulator teeth for any damage. If the regulator arms are popping off the window slide clips, or the regulator teeth are mangled, you may need to replace the regulator.
The problem could be with the window switch. Try swapping the driver and passenger-side window switches to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue could be with the motor.
