Passenger window clicking noise when reaching the top

[cn90]

Hi guys,

Searched forum but I have the feeling it is the Window Regulator going out.

The Passenger-side glass goes up and down fine, but once it reaches about 1 inch from the top (almost to the top), it makes a clicking noise for about 1 sec.

In the Volvo world, the fix is usually cheap by replacing the 2 plastic "sliding blocks"($7/each).

The the BMW world, there are no plastic sliding blocks, so I guess the fix is expensive.

Before I remove the trim panel and look, anyone with similar experience?

[Riba]

Of course there are:
RegulatorFix.com

I ordered a pair as my driver side window is making strange noises when going up and down. Curiously enough, I have a Volvo as well so I know very well what you are talking about.

[crystalworks]

There are plastic sliding blocks on some models... e36 comes to mind. But it depends on what type of click you are having. Very faint clicks are normal... it's the motor hitting it's end of travel and possibly triggering a relay or the motor itself makes the noise. Haven't looked into it to see where exactly it comes from since it's normal.

If you are talking about a louder clunking type of click... the regulator could be going out, or was replaced by a PO and not done correctly. Both our fronts make a clunking type of noise and were replaced by the PO. I did the rears myself and there is no such noise. Might pull the panel off and have a gander in there... maybe they didn't use OEM regulators or something?

If you do need a regulator, get a good one. Should run ~$120 - 150.

[Ricky Bobby]

I'm interested to see if the regulatorfix clips can "refresh" a regulator before complete failure. I think a combination of those, along with 2 new black plastic window support clips may in fact save many from the expense of a new regulator.

[g300d]

I have the click too, interested to see what it turns out to be if you decide to open it up.

I've seen the clips, dont quite understand the exact way the regulators fail though

[white46]

Since it's not completed failed yet, google "BMW window regulator zip tie fix". This should be good enough.

[cn90]

Further research points to plastic clips (2 per door):
[url=http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=497982[/url]

BMW dealer only sells complete Window Regulator for about $180 (complete with motor).

The Plastic Clips are available on ebay for about $7.50/each or $15 per door. These are aftermarket (not OEM) clips. Since they are plastic, aftermarket is probably fine.
NOTE: clips are different for Front vs Rear door.

At this time, the only issue I have is clicking only when window reaches the top. No issue going down.

I am too busy now, so this issue is going to the back burner, but if whenever I tackle this, will post a DIY.

Or anyone who tackles this plastic clips thingy, please post a DIY.

[thrillcat]

I bought 4 of the plastic clips at my local dealership (OEM) for under $7.

[TiAgX5]

If you need to replace the regulator, shop around.

I found a new Genuine BMW part for around 1/4 the dealer cost......

BMW 51357125059 Driver Side Rear Window Regulator Lifter


Also, replace the plastic clip that goes in the glass (got mine for $6 at Classic BMW) and secures the glass to the regulator slide.

Waiting for new panel clips to install the door panel.....

http://www.ebay.com/itm/261466350462...ht_3624wt_1258

When DIYing on a +10 yr old vehicle, replace ALL plastic parts!

[crystalworks]

Originally Posted by TiAgX5

When DIYing on a +10 yr old vehicle, replace ALL plastic parts!

Quoted for truth. Good habit to get into as it usually doesn't cost much and can save having to do a job more than once.