Wind Noise?

[wchung1]

Hello to all:

I am new to the site, and am seeking some advice/ knowledge here. I currently own a 2002 BMW 325i, which has been in my possession for almost a year now. Overall, I have been very pleased with its performance. However, this is where my problem begans.

Over the driver's side window, I tend to notice a rattling/ crackling noise when the car is moving. When the car stops, the noise disappears. Also, if the window is even rolled down just a mm or 2, the noise seems to go away when the car is moving. I am not sure what this is about. I plan to go back to my original dealer soon for further assistance. BMW of San Francisco was not very helpful. Sorry! Thanks for any advice/ recommendations, in advance. I don't think I am crazy, because other people hear it as well, only on the driver side.

[Nanners]

I'm having the same problem particularly with my driver window. It creaks and squeaks when it's completely shut. I notice this more when the road is a little rougher and my radio is off. I tried lowering the window down slightly and that seems to take care of that problem. I think it has something to do with the way the window rubs up against its seal, thus causing friction. I'll ask a BMW mechanic soon to see if he has any idea.

Have you figured out a solution to this yet?

[wchung1]

Hello:

What I ended up doing was the following. Since SF BMW was not as attentive to my situation, I brought my car back to Assael BMW in Southern California, where I had purchased the car originally.

Through a personal connection, I was able to speak personally to their top mechanic. He stated that there had been a similar issue with the 5 series previously. The solution was to lubricate door seals to allow for a more uniform interface between the window and the panel. This apparently has worked for me. It's been about 2 months now.

Lastly, speculation on why this may be the case. If you tend to frequent a car wash, be aware. The chemicals they may use on the edges of the window may be a potential culprit. Since then, I haven't brought my car to the previous car wash. Something to bear in mind. Hope this helps!

Take care and good luck.

[Eli at Pelican Parts]

I have experienced the same problem on my 3 series too and I agree with wchung1. When I started hearing noises I applied lubricant to my door seals and the problem went away. The problem did return after a few months but after a second application the problem hasn’t returned and it’s been over 6 months now.

Hope this helps,

Eli
General Manager
Pelican Parts/ Drivewerks