BMW 335d Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your BMW 335d and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
36% chance it's the
Fuse, Relay or Electrical System
0%
20% chance it's the
Window Motor
0%
24% chance it's the
Window Regulator
0%
20% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a BMW 335d window won't go up or down are window's electrical system such as a fuse or relay, a broken window motor, or a broken window regulator.
  • Fuse, Relay or Electrical System: A blown fuse or a faulty relay can disrupt the electrical circuit, causing components to fail or operate intermittently.
  • Window Motor: A faulty window motor or a broken window regulator can prevent the window from moving up or down properly.
  • Window Regulator: A faulty window regulator can cause the window to become stuck or operate erratically due to worn gears or a broken cable.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a BMW 335d window won't go up or down?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the door window motor fails, the window may not open or close, or it may operate intermittently. Traditionally, problems with power windows were caused by faulty switches or electrical wiring - especially the wires running between the door and the vehicle body that are subjected to repeated flexing. In these cases, the window might operate intermittently when the door is opened and closed. While this may still be the case on newer cars, it is increasingly common to find window motor problems that originate with a control module. Still, the switches and wiring should be checked thoroughly before replacing a window motor.

If one of the windows in a vehicle will not open or close properly, a failing door window regulator might be the cause. A window that is moving intermittently, or one that gets stuck on the way up or down, could also indicate a broken regulator. Other symptoms might include a clicking, chattering, or grinding noise when the window moves. In some cases a severely damaged window regulator could cause the window to drop inside the door.

When a switch can not make contact and close the circuit, the window cannot be raised and lowered. If the switch on the driver's door will not raise or lower the window in question, but the switch on the corresponding door works just fine, this is a good indication that there is a switch failure. This works the other way around, as well. If the switch on the door does not cause the window to function, but the driver's switch does, that is an indication of a passenger door window switch failure.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

Troubleshooting Window Operation Issues in a BMW 335d

When troubleshooting window operation issues in your BMW 335d, start with a diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler fixes before delving into more complex problems. Begin by listening for sounds when you press the window switch; if you hear the motor attempting to engage, the issue may lie with the window regulator. Conversely, if there’s no sound at all, it could indicate a faulty switch or a blown fuse. If the windows are moving slowly, this may suggest that the motor is failing or that the regulator is facing resistance, which warrants further inspection. Pay attention to any clicking or whirring noises, as these can signal that the motor is struggling due to mechanical faults. A practical step you can take is to reset the windows, which often resolves minor glitches and restores functionality. If the window is stuck, manually rolling it up can serve as a temporary fix until you can address the underlying issue. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve window operation problems in your BMW 335d, empowering you to tackle these issues with confidence.

What to Check When Your BMW 335d Window Won't Go Up or Down?

When your BMW 335d window won't go up or down, understanding the common problems that could be at play is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Begin by inspecting the window regulator, as this component is vital for the window's movement; if it fails, the window will not operate. Next, test the window switch by pressing it and listening for any sounds; silence may indicate a defective switch or a blown fuse. It's also important to check that the window glass is properly aligned and seated against the window seal, as misalignment can obstruct movement. Additionally, look for any debris or obstructions in the window track that could impede the window's operation. If the window moves slightly before stopping, this may point to an overheating motor, which could require further investigation. By systematically addressing these common issues, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the window malfunction in your BMW 335d.

Why is it Urgent to Fix a Non-Functioning Window in a BMW 335d?

Fixing a non-functioning window in your BMW 335d is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent necessity that can have serious implications for your safety and the vehicle's integrity. A malfunctioning window can obstruct your visibility, making it difficult to navigate safely, especially in critical situations. Additionally, an open or improperly sealed window compromises the security of your vehicle, leaving it vulnerable to theft and damage. The exposure to weather elements can lead to interior damage, creating an uncomfortable environment for passengers and potentially resulting in costly repairs. Moreover, driving with a non-functioning window may violate local road safety regulations, exposing you to fines or legal repercussions. Lastly, maintaining all vehicle components, including windows, is essential for preserving the resale value of your BMW 335d. Therefore, addressing window issues promptly is crucial to ensure your safety, protect your investment, and maintain compliance with regulations.

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