The window regulator in your BMW is the mechanism for rolling your window up or down when you use the window control button. Although BMWs are known for a satisfying driving experience, a window regulator failure can be quite frustrating.

The most common symptoms of a failing window regulator include a malfunctioning button, an improperly aligned window, the window won’t stay up, or there may be a clicking sound whenever you roll up the window.

While the window regulators and motor come together as a single unit in some vehicles, most times, both components can be replaced separately.

The Window Regulator at a Glance

• The motor: The regulator has a motor that moves the window up or down depending on the command. While most vehicles come equipped with a simple motor that only rolls the window up or down, more expensive vehicles have a complex motor equipped with a microchip. These chips compute the number of rotations the window takes before reaching the top of the door and detects when an object is in the way.
• The cables: The mechanism also includes cables running through the motor and raising or lowering the window when the window button is pressed.
• The guide: The bottom of the window is fastened to the guide, which moves up and down through the track.
• The track: The track is fastened to the inside of the door, and it is a long, thin sheet of metal through which the window guide revolves.

Common Signs of a Window Regulator Failure In BMWs

The following are some signs to look out for if you suspect an issue with your BMW window regulator.

• Malfunctioning button: The first sign of a window regulator failure in your BMW is when the buttons fail to work or malfunction. A well-functioning window regulator responds immediately to the button at first touch. However, you would want to contact a professional for proper diagnosis as the problem could have resulted from the failure of the window button and not the regulator.
• Clicking sounds whenever the window is rolled up: A grinding or clicking noise whenever the window is rolled up or down is another sign of a window regulator failure in your BMW. You don’t want to use force in this situation as it may cause your window to come off its track.
• The window rolls up slow or too quick: Your BMW window regulator controls the pace with which your window rolls up or down. A malfunctioning regulator would reflect a problem with the window’s speed while rolling up or down.
• Windows won’t stay up: If you notice your BMW window doesn’t stay rolled up or off-centered, this is another indication of a faulty or damaged regulator.

Whenever you notice any of the following symptoms, it is best to consult a professional for a proper diagnosis of the issue and to make the repair. The good news is that most times, the window regulator may be replaced separately.

Possible Causes of Window Regulator Failure in BMW

The following are why your BMW might be experiencing a window regulator failure:

• Detached cable: This is the most common source of a faulty window regulator. The working of the window mechanism consists of several pulleys which may become detached. When this happens, it will cause the failure of your window regulator.
• Cold or frozen motors: Your window regulator might stop working if temperatures become very low. The regulator could get frozen due to the low temperature, causing a breakdown of the whole mechanism.
• Overheated regulator: The moment the regulator overheats, it stops working. While the system will begin working after leaving it for some time to cool off, it is best to have the issue fixed.

The Best Repair Shop for Your BMW

Das European Autohaus is a leading automotive repair shop in Spring, Houston, TX. We are specialists in providing repairs and maintenance for European cars, including BMW models.

At Das European Autohaus, we understand that having a window regulator problem in your BMW can be frustrating. Our ASE-certified mechanics can fix your window regulator problem in no time to provide the best performance from your BMW. Please call or visit our shop for your next service appointment!