Power Window Components — Removal and Installation (BMW 3 Series E46)

Note: The power window system has a self-diagnosis function. Before removing any system component, contact your BMW dealer for troubleshooting.

Switches

1. See Chapter 12, paragraph 4.

Electric motors for window lifters (sedan and tourist models)

2. Remove the window regulator (see paragraph 14).

3. Remove the screws and disconnect the electric motor from the window regulator.

4. When assembling, install the electric motor on the window regulator and tighten the mounting screws securely.

5. Install the window regulator (see paragraph 14).

Electric motors for window lifters (coupe model)

6. To remove the electric motor, it is necessary to remove the window lift unit from the vehicle. This work should be performed at a specialized service station (see paragraph 15).

Side window electric motor (coupe model)

7. Using a plastic wedge, carefully remove the plastic cap from the rod (Fig. 15.2).

8. Disconnect the rod from the window (Fig. 15.3).

9. To remove the plastic casing from the electric motor, press in the central pin of the retainer, then remove the retainer itself and remove the casing from the electric motor rod.

10. Unscrew the two mounting bolts and remove the electric motor together with the bracket (fig. 19.10). Disconnect the electrical wiring connector from the electric motor.



11. If necessary, remove the two screws and detach the bracket from the electric motor.



12. Installation is performed in the reverse order of removal. Note that the plastic cap of the rod has an internal protrusion that must engage with the groove of the rod socket.

Electronic control unit (ECU)

13. The electric window system is controlled by a central control unit (ZKE V), sometimes called the main unit (GM V). This unit is located in the passenger compartment, behind the glove box. To access the unit, remove the glove box (see paragraph 27).

14. Disconnect the fastening and lower the block down (fig. 19.14).



15. Remove the retainer and disconnect the electrical wiring connector from the ECU, then remove the ECU from the vehicle interior.