power window problem
 

The windows do have power, however when the switch is pressed (up or down), the window only moves a few inches at a time until the switch is pressed again. This problem is in both the driver's side window and the passenger side one. Any ideas?

'92 318is

Re: power window problem
 

I have this same problem with my sunroof, but have yet to look into it. I would imagine that if it was only on one window, there might be a flat spot on the in the power window motor, requiring that the brushes be replaced, but if it is on both windows....

Does it happen at the same position on both windows?

What happens whe you unlock the doors? Do the windows automatically retract about 1/2 inch?

I've heard it's due to a circuit breaker but am not sure about this or about its whereabouts..it happens in the same position everytime. The windows automatically retract 1/2 inch when either door is opened, and goes back up when the door is closed. When the doors are unlocked, from the outside or inside, same problem occurs when the switch is pressed; same again when the doors are locked..

Mine does something like that too. I have two of these cars, so I know that's not correct. The window should only drop down if it's rolled up (to the best of my knowledge). I think that there is a position sensor that is misaligned or something like that. I have the panel off my door right now - as I have been hunting for this problem...

-Wayne

Here's your fix :)
 

Hi, I got the sme problem and fixed it. It's a 30-45 minute repair per side and will cost you around $2.50 (cost of buying epoxy).

Good luck, let me know if you have any trouble there. Read the note below: or copy and paste the link in your browser.

http://bimmer.roadfly.org/bmw/forums/e36/archives/forum.php?postid=694804&page=3

bump and drop power windows
 

the windows in my 1994 318ic drop 2-4 inches when ever i roll over a bump in the road; it's quite annoying since i moved to Nebraska and it's 18 degrees outside.

all four windows drop and this started about the same time the "close with door shut" feature stopped working. i tried the "re-initializing" thing from the Bentley service manual, but it still does it. i'm waiting for a warm day so i can try the window adjustment stressed in the Bentley manual, but haven't figured out what a "preload gap" is.

any ideas on how to get around this problem in the meantime.