window regulator repair

[Morgan]

Both front windows have failed. Once under BMW Warranty
Can I do this repair myself?
Thanks, Morg

 

[Akakubi]

It's doable. Not sure how easy, but you can definitely DIY.

 

[Big Daddy]

I assume you are now out of warranty? How long has it been since the dealer replaced it? If you are still having a problem I would contact my dealer about it, the new part has an implied warranty.

 

[vlad]

BMW knows that the e46 window regulators are failing way beyond the norm. My service advisor mentioned that BMW is leaning heavily on the manufacturer of those regulators.

Drive in and talk to your service advisor, they may be able to do something about it!

 

[asashoryu]

This problem must have been going on for a while. I've had my e36 driver's side fixed once under warranty and now acts up (but not bad enough for me to pay to fix it). It's disappointing to see that this problem hasn't been fixed yet now that I'm buying another 3 series 7 years later.

 

[Morgan]

Thanks for the info guys. My 2001 has over 85,000 miles on it...so it's way out of warranty. Back in the old days you'd just pull off the door panel and fix it in 20 minutes. Now, with the air bags, sound system...etc...it's off to the dealer for an all day adventure......Morg

 

[BEEMIN]

You know, I had my rear passenger side regulator fail twice on my E46. The first time the car was still under warranty so no cost. The second time, the car was no longer under warranty, but the regulator had been replaced less that a year before so they did it again at no cost.

However, a few days ago, I went on a test drive with a guy who wants to buy my car and the front passenger failed - how embarrasing!!! He still wants to buy (thank god) but I had to call BMW to see what it will cost and it's $250.

I'm glad it's not just me having these problems - I've never had a regulator fail with my other bmws.