Window regulator zip-tie fix

[z168]

My passenger front failed yesterday and did the zip-tie method. But also the plastic clip that locks the glass broke. Good thing theyre $2.50 each (need 2 per window) and the dealer had them in stock

[Multibeemer]

I've used this method to pre-empt regulator failures on our E46, and also used it on the X5 on a regulator that was just starting to give symptoms of failing. This is a great technique, and if my experience is any indication, it's permanent, and in fact better than the original attachment that comes on a new regulator.

[audiophool]

I'd be inclined to use iron wire like you use to tie rebar together rather than zip ties. Good fix otherwise.

I've not had my door apart yet, but is a symptom of this failure a slow window? The driver's door on the X is slow to rise and creaks rather ominously while doing so. Should address it before much longer since the wife has underground parking and has to lower and raise the glass daily to get into the car park.

[SlickGT1]

You can use electrical wire. Sort of hard to do when the reg is installed. This would prevent the cable from pulling out and thus breaking its attachment point. It basically makes that attachment point have less stress on it.

[tynashracing]

Driver's window on my X made a pop and is now *crunching as it seats in the fully raised position. I've not lowered it again as I fear it's about to fail completely.
Am I dealing with a regulator issue? Ugh.

[SlickGT1]

Originally Posted by tynashracing

Driver's window on my X made a pop and is now *crunching as it seats in the fully raised position. I've not lowered it again as I fear it's about to fail completely.
Am I dealing with a regulator issue? Ugh.

Yup. That pop, is the cable snapping out of the lift arm. I nearly shit myself when it happened. Being in NYC, I thought I was getting shot at.

That crunching sound, is the knuckle on the cable that snapped out, it is snagging the metal bracing in the door as it is going up. Your regulator is fuxored.

[tynashracing]

Originally Posted by SlickGT1

Yup. That pop, is the cable snapping out of the lift arm. I nearly shit myself when it happened. Being in NYC, I thought I was getting shot at.

That crunching sound, is the knuckle on the cable that snapped out, it is snagging the metal bracing in the door as it is going up. Your regulator is fuxored.

Yes, it's an alarming sound when it pops!

I figured I was hosed. Hmmm, might try the zip tie "fix"!

[SlickGT1]

Originally Posted by tynashracing

Yes, it's an alarming sound when it pops!

I figured I was hosed. Hmmm, might try the zip tie "fix"!

Nope, it won't work now. You already snapped the cable knuckle off the lift arm. It will be retarded hard to get the knuckle to go back into place. It might work, but I doubt the ziptie will cut it. I would suggest 12ga solid wire at this point.

[tynashracing]

Originally Posted by SlickGT1

Nope, it won't work now. You already snapped the cable knuckle off the lift arm. It will be retarded hard to get the knuckle to go back into place. It might work, but I doubt the ziptie will cut it. I would suggest 12ga solid wire at this point.

Gotcha! Thanks for the heads up!!!