Passenger Window Issue - Regulator? - 2005 325xi - BMW Forum

rstier · 09-28-2009, 07:07 AM

Hi,
My passenger window is having issues going up on my 2005 325xi. It also has excessive side to side play. Going down it is fine but going up it crawls and usually needs to be helped by hand. Does this sound like a broken regulator or just a loose part (e.g. roller, etc)? If it is the regulator, is that difficult to change?
Thanks!
Ron

marti5 · 09-28-2009, 10:35 AM

Best thing to do is remove the door card and sound proofing and investigate, BMW uses a lot of plastic parts on their window mechanisms.

otisol31 · 09-28-2009, 09:45 PM

I had the same problem on my 2001 330i.....both drivers and passenger side windows. I found the web site below which explains how to repair the regulator with ty-wraps and I just "fixed" both windows today. I'm not sure how long it will last, but it was worth trying. The window regulators are pretty pricey.

Whether you try the ty-wrap repair or just replace the regulators, it's a relatively easy job if you have some mechanical ability.

On thing to note: Disconnect the battery before unpluging the side airbag. Do not reconnect the battery with the airbag module unplugged or the airbag light won't go out and you'll need a scan tool or dealer to reset it. That was the one mistake I made. That means you'll need to get the window in the proper position to remove the 2 bolts that hold the glass to the regulator before disconnecting the battery and the airbag.

E46 Window Regulator

If anyone in Southern CT has or knows of someone with an SRS scan/reset tool with a 16 pin connector that they would let me use to reset the airbag light, it would be greatly appreciated.

FCPGroton · 09-29-2009, 09:20 AM

I am surprised that BMW makes a window so cheaply. For a car that is built so solid otherwise, it is amazing how these things break so easily.

kohlers · 09-29-2009, 10:36 AM

The previous owner of my 2000 323i (with 100.000 miles) replaced the passenger regulator with a $60 aftermarket that broke shortly after I got the car a month ago. The plastic that holds the wire at the window was soft and cheap and that is the part that broke. I got a OME for $117 from rmeurope and installed it with the help of the previous owner without disconnecting battery and airbag. Works fine now.

rstier · 09-29-2009, 08:50 PM

Good info, thanks to all who replied!

I'll do some door surgery and take a look at what's going on. That link provided should help.