BMW 535d Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your BMW 535d 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 535d 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 535d 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 535d

When troubleshooting window operation issues in your BMW 535d, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by identifying the specific problem; listen for motor sounds when you press the window switch, as this can indicate whether the issue lies with the motor or the window regulator. If you hear the motor attempting to operate but the window does not move, the regulator may be faulty. Conversely, if there is no sound at all, check the window switch and the fuse, as a blown fuse can disrupt power to the window system. Inspect the fuse box, typically located under the dashboard or in the glove compartment, and refer to your BMW manual to locate the correct fuse for the power windows. If the windows are moving slowly, this could signal motor issues that may require further investigation. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address window operation problems, ensuring a smoother and more effective repair process.

What to Check When Your BMW 535d Window Won't Go Up or Down?

When your BMW 535d window refuses to move, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue effectively. One of the first areas to investigate is the electrical system, including the fuse and relay, as these components are crucial for window operation. If the electrical system is intact, listen for the window motor when you press the switch; if you hear it attempting to engage, the motor may be the culprit. Conversely, if there’s no sound, the window regulator could be malfunctioning, which is another frequent issue. Additionally, inspect the window switch itself for any signs of wear or damage, as a faulty switch can prevent the window from responding. If you suspect a temporary glitch, try resetting the power window system by fully lowering and then raising the window while holding the switch for a few extra seconds. In emergencies, knowing how to manually roll up the window can be invaluable. Lastly, if all else fails, consider a battery reset, which can sometimes recalibrate the window system. By systematically checking these common problems, you can often identify and resolve the issue with your BMW 535d window.

Why is it Urgent to Fix a Non-Functioning Window in a BMW 535d?

Addressing a non-functioning window in your BMW 535d is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent necessity that impacts safety and security. A malfunctioning window can hinder proper ventilation, which is crucial for maintaining a comfortable environment inside the vehicle, especially during extreme weather conditions. More critically, it poses a safety risk by limiting emergency exits in the event of an accident. Additionally, a broken window compromises the security of your vehicle, making it an easy target for theft. Ignoring this issue can lead to further complications, such as damage to the window regulator, wiring, or fuses, which can escalate repair costs significantly. Therefore, it is essential to act promptly to ensure the safety of all passengers, protect your vehicle from theft, and maintain its overall functionality.

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