2015 BMW 740Li Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2015 BMW 740Li and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2015 BMW 740Li 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 malfunction or not operate at all.
  • 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 2015 BMW 740Li 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.

What are the common problems that could cause the window of a 2015 BMW 740Li to not go up or down?

When dealing with a non-functioning window in a 2015 BMW 740Li, several common problems may be at play. One of the first areas to investigate is the electrical system, including the fuse and relay, as these components are crucial for the window's operation. A blown fuse or a faulty relay can disrupt the power supply, preventing the window from moving. If the electrical system checks out, the next likely culprit is the window motor itself. This motor is essential for the window's movement, and if it fails, the window will remain stuck. Additionally, the window regulator, which guides the window up and down, can also malfunction. A damaged regulator may cause the window to become stuck or move unevenly. Lastly, if the window moves slightly before stopping, it could indicate a problem with the motor that drives the pulleys. Understanding these common issues can help you diagnose the problem effectively, but if you're unsure, consulting a qualified mechanic is always a wise choice to ensure proper repairs.

How urgent is it to fix the non-functioning window in a 2015 BMW 740Li?

Addressing a non-functioning window in your 2015 BMW 740Li should be treated as an urgent matter. Ignoring the issue can lead to further complications, such as damage to the window regulator or motor, which may escalate repair costs and complexity. A window that fails to open or close properly not only disrupts the convenience of your vehicle but can also compromise your safety, especially if the window becomes stuck in an open position. Additionally, a malfunctioning window can affect the automatic "one-touch" feature, leading to frustration during operation. If you notice that the window is moving slowly or skewed, it may indicate underlying problems with the cables or run channels that require immediate attention. By addressing these symptoms promptly, you can prevent more significant damage and ensure the window system operates smoothly, maintaining both the functionality and safety of your vehicle.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a 2015 BMW 740Li window that won't operate?

When faced with a non-operational window in your 2015 BMW 740Li, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by examining the window switch for any visible signs of damage or obstruction, as a malfunctioning switch can often be the simplest culprit. Next, turn your attention to the fuse box; a blown fuse can disrupt power to the window system, so consult your vehicle's manual to locate the specific fuse for the windows and check its condition. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider common causes such as mechanical failures or electrical problems that may require further investigation. Additionally, performing a window reset can sometimes restore functionality; this involves holding the window switch in the up position for several seconds, followed by the down position, which may recalibrate the window mechanism. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the window issue in your BMW, saving time and money on professional repairs.

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2015 BMW 740Li Window Won't Go Up Down | RepairPal