SUNROOF PROBLEMS...

[All wheels rolling]

I have a 1989 325ix with a motorized sunroof and it consistantly stops while being opened or closed. I can still hear the cable motor running while I hold the button. I had one person tell me that I might need a new motor. Is this true? Has anyone else had this kind of problem? Sometimes I have to manually help it out by pushing it open or pulling it closed.

Preston

[IrishBimmer]

I would check the manual to see where all the wiring is and take a look at that. My power mirror was doing the exact same thing, i could hear the motor running but nothing was happening, and it turned out one of the plugs dealys had broken off. I just soddered it back on and it works good as new now.

[Tadao]

My sunroof has same symptoms. I took it off, cleaned and lubed the tracks like crazy. I believe the left cable is having a problem because the right side pulls better. Maybe the gear or cable is stripped on that side. I have no idea how to get inside the headliner without screwing it up. Doesn't seem like a DIY at this point to me, unless anyone else has ideas or experience with this.

Mark

[BMW Lover]

my answer is to take it to a place :-/ i kno that kinda sux but if u screw it up u mite have some leakage in ur roof

[e30devo]

I, once again have the solution to the problem. try taking it out so see if theres some shit wrong thats easily fixable. if not then try replacing the motor.

removal!

1. open the sunroof 2-4 inches
2.unclip the roof liner and push it back into the headliner opening.
3.close the sunroof lid and loosen the retaining boltson each end of the gates.
4.pull in the retainers, remove the center bolts and lift off the lid.
5.remove the cover over the control motor and gearbox. close the sunroof if not already closed.
6.disconnect the wiring harness and remove the 3 mounting bolts, remove the motor and gearbox.
7.push the cables back evenly on both sides. remove the rail covers and pull the cables out of their guides
8.place the cable in the center position and press off.

let me know when you need the installation stuff, im too tired to type it all now.

[BMW Lover]

sounds good try it i hope it works for ya