Power window issues

General E28 FAQs.
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JBort
Posts: 1631
Joined: Feb 12, 2006 12:00 PM
Location: Loomis, California

Post by JBort »

Problem: Window goes down but not up, moves but the action is very jerky, or won't move at all.

Likely cause: Window switch internal electrical contacts are pitted/corroded.

How to check: Swap with a known good switch.

Repair: Replace switch or disassemble switch and clean/restore contacts.

If you choose to disassemble the switch, watch out for springs or clips falling off the switch. Pry the switch halves apart with a small screwdriver. The switches have a high current going thru them, and the internal contacts tend to pit and arc, especially after 20+ years of use.

Clean the contacts with your favorite tool (well not your FAVORITE tool...(cough, cough)...). I've used a Dremel with brass brush, a scotch-brite pad, and a drafter's electric eraser (kept from the days before AutoCAD).

I've also restored a set of severely pitted contacts with silver solder. Of course it won't last as long as the originals, but it will get you through a weekend or a work-week.

For the later illuminated switches, the bulbs are replaceable.
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