Driver side electric window problem - United Bimmer Community

**93320i** · 08-22-2010, 04:32 PM

I have 93, 4-door 320i sedan with a driver side electric window problem that started two years ago.

The window goes up and down, but only about one inch at a time. I have to press the window switch several times to complete either cycle.

I have a Haynes repair manual that indicates the windows are controlled by the central body electronics (ZKE) module on sedans and individual motor ECMs on coupes. However, even though my car is a sedan it contains the individual motor ECMs.

One thing I have noticed is that there a clicking relay sound coming from the ECM that doesn’t appear on the passenger side.

I took the ECM out and noticed “hall-effect” sensors that are positioned in the ECM so that they are in close proximity of the motor shaft when the ECM is installed. Are there supposed to be magnets on the motor shaft that open a close the hall-effect sensors when the shaft turning? I believe this is the way the ECM senses when the window has come in contact with an obstruction. If this is the case then the shaft magnets are missing or the ECM is defective. Has anyone had experience with this? Is there a way to bypass the ECM? Or will I have to replace the ECM and/or motor?

Any insight or help would be greatly appreciated.

**grahamw** · 09-15-2010, 09:04 AM

Have you tried replacing the electric window relay - located up behind the glove box? I had a similar problem with my 1993 E36 320i with erratic window operation. Replaced the relay and all works fine now.

**pergasus750il** · 09-15-2010, 09:12 AM

my e32 750il 1990, wont start on park but when i put it on neutral, it cranks right up. Also i smell something funny in the car, not coolant or gas but something else. can i get any ideas.

**pergasus750il** · 09-15-2010, 09:14 AM

[QUOTE=pergasus750il;173890]my e32 750il 1990, wont start on park but when i put it on neutral, it cranks right up. Also i smell something funny in the car, not coolant or gas but something else. can i get any ideas with not starting problem.

**johnsess** · 09-16-2010, 07:17 AM

Pegasus,

While in park, try moving the shift lever forward and backward SLIGHTLY while having the key turned forward to the start position. You may find a "sweet spot" where the car will start. It may be due to wear over the years.

John

**DSP543GP** · 01-10-2011, 01:04 PM

Hi Guys!!!
MY E36 320I 93 4 DOOR MODEL, THE WINDOWS & CENTRAL LOCK DON'T WORK, I CHANGED THE BLUE RELAY (COMFORT RELAY, BEHIND THE GLOVE BOX), FUSES ARE FINE, ALSO CHANGED THE DRIVER'S SIDE LOCKSET AS I THOUGHT IT'S THE MICROSWITCH BUT STILL NO LUCK, EVEN THE POWER CUT SWITCH IT'S BEEN CHANGED. PLEASE ANY IDEA WHERE TO START?