Window Switch Problems
 

Hi,

I have a 2005 BMW X3, and lately, my window switch panel has been acting up. All windows work fine when closing and opening, however whenever I roll up the driver side window, the rear passenger side window or the rear driver side window would sometimes open a quarter of the way. Before I start spending money on replacing the switches or before I bring it to a dealer/indy shop and pay, are there things I can do myself to isolate the problem and possibly find a solution? Could a short circuit be causing this, even though everything works? Could it be just a malfunctioning switch? I don't have any blown fuses. Is there a relay for the window switch, if so, could it be bad? Has anyone else had this same problem? I used the searched button, but didn't find anything.

I would appreciate and suggestions.

thank you,

Anyone? Any ideas?

I would check the bundle of wires that comes from the door jamb to the door. They flex every time the door is opened, and can become damaged. If the wires are shorting between each other that could explain what you are experiencing.

Hi JCL,

Thank you for your response. I am not sure I understood you. Do I have to remove door panels, and then unwrap the wires to find the short?

Thank you,

I haven't looked at my X3 closely, but there is usually a rubber boot over the wire bundle. You are looking for signs of chafing at either end of that boot. You may need to take the trim panel off to see better. If there is no visible damage, then it is likely the switch. I would diagnose it properly before throwing parts at it; doing so is nearly always the most expensive way of trying to fix something.

Jeff

Thank you for the suggestions. It turns out it was a bad window switch. I replaced the window control module with a new one and the problem hasn't surfaced in the last 3 days.