window does not work

[swansea v6]

Just picked up a 1997 BMW compact 318ti and the only problem is that the drivers side window does not work. Have tried to get the door panel off but the electric mirror switch seems to be glued to the panel, unless I am missing a hidden screw somewhere?? Anyway, any common reasons why the window will not move? you can not hear the motor at all if you press the window switch, so could it be the motor, or something as simple as the runners need to be re-greased???

[liquidken]

You need to get the doorcard off to investigate.

Normally, the clips that hold the window on to the mechanism will brake. Instead of replacing them, people will bodge a fix.
If you've no motor sound, it's probable that the motor has been disconnected to save inadvertently hitting the button and the glass dropping out of the runner and jamming.

Alternatively, of course, the motor could be fooked.

[E30M3SE]

Carefully prise out the electric door mirror switch, there is a screw behind it.

[swansea v6]

cheers for the replies, window is all sorted!! have a few more bits and pieces to investigate but all in all i am chuffed with a car that only cost £400

[vsonix]

check out 318ti.org - good knowledge base there including step to step how-tos on refurbing the window regulators etc.

Funnily enough my passenger window dropped off its rails too last weekend!

[swansea v6]

Cheers guys, have just signed up with 318ti.org. Bought a new regulator for the window but all I need now is another motor as that one is officially foooked......