BMW M850i XDrive Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your BMW M850i xDrive 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 BMW M850i 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 BMW M850i 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.

Troubleshooting Window Operation Issues in a BMW M850i xDrive

When troubleshooting window operation issues in your BMW M850i xDrive, begin by listening for sounds when you engage the window switch. If you hear the motor attempting to operate, the issue may lie with the window regulator, which is a relatively straightforward fix. However, if there are no sounds at all, this could indicate a problem with the window switch or a blown fuse, both of which are easier to address. If the window does not fully close and leaves an air gap, it may require adjustment, which is best handled by a professional. In cases where the window rolls up but then immediately rolls back down, inspect the window track for any obstructions that could be causing the issue. Clear any debris to ensure smooth operation. If the window remains unresponsive, further investigation is necessary, potentially involving more complex electrical diagnostics. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively identify and resolve common window issues in your BMW M850i xDrive, ensuring a comfortable and functional driving experience.

What to Check When the Window Won't Go Up or Down in a BMW M850i xDrive?

When troubleshooting a window that won't go up or down in your BMW M850i xDrive, it's crucial to identify the common problems that may be causing the malfunction. Begin by inspecting the window switch and fuses, as a faulty switch or a blown fuse can disrupt the window's operation. If the switch appears to be working, listen for any motor noise when you press it; this sound can indicate whether the window motor is attempting to function. If there is no noise, the issue may stem from the window regulator, which might need to be examined or replaced. Additionally, check for any obstructions in the window track, as debris can prevent the window from moving smoothly. If the motor remains silent and the regulator seems intact, consider the possibility of a broken clip or a burnt-out motor, both of which may require replacement. Lastly, don't forget to assess the overall electrical system of the vehicle, as broader electrical issues can also impact window functionality. By systematically evaluating these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the window issue in your BMW M850i xDrive.

Why is it Urgent to Fix a Non-Functioning Window in a BMW M850i xDrive?

Fixing a non-functioning window in your BMW M850i xDrive is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent necessity that impacts your vehicle's security and functionality. A malfunctioning window can leave your car vulnerable to theft, as it compromises the integrity of the vehicle's interior. Additionally, if the window is stuck open, it exposes passengers to harsh weather conditions, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the upholstery and electronic components inside the car. Moreover, a window that is not functioning properly can disrupt the aerodynamics of your vehicle, which may negatively affect fuel efficiency. By addressing this issue promptly, you not only enhance the safety and comfort of your driving experience but also prevent further damage to the window mechanism, ultimately saving on costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of a non-functioning window to maintain the overall well-being of your BMW M850i xDrive.

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