FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/E90/E91 (2005-2012)/my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) window won't go up what could be wrong

my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) window won't go up what could be wrong

BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
541 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The power window on a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is not functioning and will not go up.

Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before opening any components.

Symptoms

  • •Window remains in the down position and does not respond to switch activation
  • •No sound from the window motor when the switch is pressed
  • •Other windows operate normally
  • •Window may be partially stuck or misaligned
  • •Possible presence of water leaks around the door area

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the window switch for any visible damage or wear.
  2. 2Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any relevant fault codes.
  3. 3Test the window motor by applying direct power to it from the battery.
  4. 4Inspect the door panel for any loose connections or damaged wiring.
  5. 5Check the window regulator for signs of failure or mechanical obstruction.
  6. 6Test the fuse related to the window operation for continuity.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts needed for the repair.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shock.
  • Safety warning: Allow the vehicle to cool and ensure the ignition is off.

2. Remove Door Panel

  • Sub-steps:
    • Use a trim removal tool to carefully pry off any clips holding the door panel.
    • Remove screws securing the door panel (typically located near the door handle and bottom edge).
    • Carefully disconnect any electrical connectors (e.g., power window switch, speakers).
    • Lift the door panel upwards to detach it from the door frame.

3. Inspect and Replace Window Motor/Regulator

  • Sub-steps:
    • Once the door panel is removed, locate the window motor and regulator assembly.
    • Check for any physical damage or obstructions in the regulator mechanism.
    • If the motor is faulty, disconnect the wiring harness and remove the motor (usually secured by a couple of bolts).
    • Install the new window motor by reversing the removal process. Ensure it is securely attached and connected.
    • If the regulator is damaged, replace it with a new unit by removing the necessary bolts and installing the new one.

4. Reassemble Door Panel

  • Sub-steps:
    • Reconnect any electrical connectors to the door panel.
    • Align the door panel with the door frame and push it into place.
    • Reinstall screws and ensure all clips are secured.
    • Reconnect the battery and test the window operation before finalizing the assembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Trim removal tool
  • Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat-head)
  • Socket set
  • Multimeter (for testing electrical connections)
  • Torque wrench (if specified by the manufacturer)

Parts Required

  • Window motor (if faulty)
  • Window regulator (if damaged)
  • Door panel clips (if broken)

Additional Information

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to clear the service light on my BMW 3 Series E90/E91?

    ## Problem Statement The service light on a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 is illuminated, indicating that scheduled maintenance is due or has been performed.

    Symptoms
    • •Service light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Engine oil change indicator displayed
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 vibrate at high speeds?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 is experiencing vibrations at high speeds, which can indicate issues with the vehicle's balance, alignme...

    Symptoms
    • •Vibration felt through the steering wheel
    • •Vibration in the seat or floorboard
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) fuel gauge not working properly

    ## Problem Statement The fuel gauge in a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is not functioning correctly, leading to inaccurate fuel level readings.

    Symptoms
    • •Fuel gauge shows empty despite having fuel in the tank
    • •Fuel gauge fluctuates erratically while driving
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 have a whistling sound while driving?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 is experiencing a whistling sound while driving, which may indicate an issue related to air intake, exha...

    Symptoms
    • •Whistling sound increases with vehicle speed
    • •Sound changes pitch or intensity with acceleration or deceleration
    • +{count} more
  5. what should I do if my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) makes a rattling noise

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is experiencing a rattling noise, which may indicate issues with various components of the v...

    Symptoms
    • •Rattling noise during acceleration or deceleration
    • •Noise present at idle or low RPM
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) have a water leak in the trunk

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is experiencing a water leak in the trunk area, which can lead to water accumulation and pot...

    Symptoms
    • •Water pooling in the trunk area
    • •Damp or wet carpet in the trunk
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation