1997 BMW Z3 Power Windows

MATTDUBAI

MEMBER
1997 BMW Z3
1.9L
4 CYL
RWD
MANUAL
180,000 MILES

Drivers side window is currently up but not all the way leaving a small gap at the top, looks like it is not aligned properly. When I lower the window it moves down only around 3in and then 'clunk' stops. When then moving it back up it goes straight close to the top but then shifts forward and 'clunk' again and then shift back and down leaving a 10mm gap at the top.

I have to jostle the window up and down to get the closest fit I can to a closed window.

What is it that is going wrong internally?
What replacement part/s do need to purchase before going to a garage to have it fixed as I would be ordering parts from ebay in US and delivered to me.

Appreciate any help or advice you can give!

Regards
Matt

2 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,916 POSTS

You need a new window regulator

For more common car models the rebuilder will often have a regulator in stock and will ship that out, then provide a partial refund when the old one is sent back. Here again, the shop may allow or ask you to take care of that since there's costs associated with packing and shipping. If you take care of that, they don't have to include that in their labor charge.

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Wednesday, July 23rd, 2014 AT 9:58 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

I agree with CARADIODOC the window regulator is bad/defective, probably a broken plastic wheel or two. Here is how to change the window regulator and motor out you will need to remove the door panel first. Check out the images (below). Let us know if you need anything else.

Images (Click to make bigger)