2021 BMW 745e XDrive Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2021 BMW 745e xDrive Windows and Effective Repair Solutions

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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 2021 BMW 745e xDrive 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 2021 BMW 745e xDrive 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 steps should I take to diagnose the window issue in my 2021 BMW 745e xDrive?

To effectively diagnose a window issue in your 2021 BMW 745e xDrive, start by checking the window switch to confirm it is operational across all windows. If the switch is functioning, proceed to inspect the fuses in the fuse box for any that may be blown, as replacing these can often resolve the issue. Next, listen for any sounds from the window motor when you operate the switch; a lack of noise may indicate a faulty motor that requires replacement. If the motor seems fine, examine the window regulator for signs of damage, as this component is crucial for the window's movement. Additionally, ensure that the window tracks are free from debris or obstructions that could hinder smooth operation. Finally, inspect the wiring connected to both the window motor and switch for any signs of damage or loose connections. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently pinpoint the source of the window issue and take the necessary steps to fix it.

What are the common causes for the power window malfunction in a 2021 BMW 745e xDrive?

When diagnosing power window malfunctions in a 2021 BMW 745e xDrive, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise. One of the primary culprits is a faulty window regulator, which can lead to slow movement or the window getting stuck entirely. Additionally, a defective window motor may prevent the window from moving up or down, leaving it inoperable. Electrical issues, such as blown fuses or damaged wiring, can also disrupt the power supply to the windows, causing them to malfunction. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning window switch, which may fail to send the necessary signals to open or close the window. Lastly, if the window has come off its track, it can hinder smooth operation and may result in the window getting stuck. For effective troubleshooting and repair, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic or a BMW dealership to ensure that these issues are accurately diagnosed and resolved.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window in my 2021 BMW 745e xDrive?

Addressing a malfunctioning window in your 2021 BMW 745e xDrive is crucial for maintaining both the safety and integrity of your vehicle. A window that fails to close properly not only compromises your car's security, making it an easy target for theft, but it also exposes the interior to potential water damage during rain or snow, which can lead to costly repairs and electrical issues. Furthermore, a window stuck in a partially open position can create uncomfortable driving conditions, introducing noise and drafts that detract from your overall driving experience. Ignoring these symptoms can exacerbate the problem, leading to increased wear on the window mechanism and ultimately resulting in more expensive repairs. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize fixing a malfunctioning window promptly to safeguard your vehicle's condition and ensure a comfortable ride.

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2021 BMW 745e xDrive Window Issues: Causes & Repairs