How is this not a defect that BMW should fix for free?

I would agree with you in most cases, but in regards to these regulators, I think there is enough evidence that even the OEM ones are crappy.

Oh well, I don't mind being a guinea pig on this one, especially since this is the first one I have had to replace, even with 162K miles!!!

I spent part of the afternoon trying to fix the plastic part. It worked for a little bit but after about 10 ups and downs another part of the plastic broke.

Just ordered one one ebay for $78 shipped.

.......since it was my window regulator that got the 15 minutes of fame in MrBMWX5's DIY Rx video, I'll post the results if my Rx fails, but so far so good!

That window goes up and down at least three - four times every school day! :popcorn:

It CAN be much worst. My indy told me that he had tried several types of aftermarket regulators and every single one of them gave him nothing but grief. Every one of those aftermarket regulator that he used had to be replaced with the OEM within a few weeks. So, now he won't use anything other than the OEM regulator. The OEM regulator may be crap, but at least it won't crap out within a few weeks.

Well, Since I ordered it already I will see and will let you know in few weeks.

Well I think dkl jinxed us - installed the new non-OEM regulator and the first push of the button the cable came unwound from the pulley.

Now I have to see if I can get my money back and go OEM...

LMAO! Sorry to say i told you so.

On a positive note, i hope the seller will refund, i know i hate the feeling when something brand new is broken or damaged. Good luck fixing it :)

MrBMW --
The pics are fuzzy -- but if mine breaks I'm going to try and figure out your repair -- copper wire in place of plastic sounds like a very good idea.