Best Window Regulator?
 

Hey guys,

So the inevitable has happened, my front right window regulator has called it quits. My girlfriend was in the X5 earlier today and rolled down the window, but then the window didn't roll back up. It moves up and down a little bit and I hear the motor still working, so it's almost certainly the regulator. Since I would really prefer my window to close, I want to order a new regulator ASAP.

That being said, have you guys found any of the aftermarket regulators to be decent? For how little some of them cost, I'm doubtful, but maybe there's a middle ground for a regulator that is decent but doesn't cost $200 or more. Or should I just suck it up and get the proper Genuine BMW regulator? I'm fine with doing that too, just wanted to explore my options first, especially since I can't order anything until Monday.

Thanks in advance :)

Can you hear any loose rattling pieces in your door when you shut it? It could be just the clip?

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Ah, good point! I'm going to open the door panel tomorrow to see what actually broke. Plus I have to close the window somehow so rain/dust doesn't get inside the cabin.

I have used both OEM and after market regulators. I have only used OEM plastic clips for the retainer bolts. So far I can see not difference in the life of the regulators except for the factory originals which lasted as long as eight years in some cases. Once they broke the replacements fail at regular infervals.
The OEM clips are junk. I have been making it a policy to replace clips as each regulator was replaced. I got two weeks out of the last set replaced and had to have the whole door card off again just to do the stupid clips.

I used an eBay clip, so far so good. Easy diy. Paid 7 bucks for 4 clips.

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I only use OEM regulators. Last time I had a regulator actually go belly up (cable was mangled), I bought a used OEM one for ~$35 if memory serves. Always install any regulator with new clips and sliders. I use OEM window clips (the black ones) and aftermarket sliders with regulator installs. I'm also sure to do the zip tie mod to all sliders before re-installation.

Haven't had a re-failure of a repaired window following the above procedure yet. *fingers crossed*

Just curious crystalworks, what is the zip tie mod to the sliders??

There is a post detailing it around here somewhere... basically you run a small zip tie around the slider that holds the cable in place so that in the eventual occurrence that small plastic nub that always breaks and causes problems does so, the regulator cable stays in place and the window is still functional.

Looks like below. That's an e46 slider, but the principle is the same.

http://www.skene.org/bmw/window/imag...indow_clip.jpg

That is a great mod crystalworks! Thanks for sharing it!

No problem.

Can't claim credit for it, but I've been employing it for years with great results so I try to pass it on when regulator failure/reliability questions come up. :thumbup: