Electrical problem...help?

Messages
3
Likes
0
Location
Kansas City, MO
#1
I bought a '93 325i for my son to take to college...thinking safety and reliability. The only problem with the vehicle unrelated to age (only145k on it) is the electrical related to the windows and sunroof. I checked the switches inside the car with a voltmeter, all OK, checked the fuses under the hood, all OK. Anyone know if this is a common thing? Any ideas? The only other thing I can think of to do before taking it somewhere (AGONY) is to check for something unhooked in the dash as the radio isn't factory and I figured maybe the installer forgot to plug something back in or cut some wire they shouldn't have. Thanx! [headbang]
 

epj3

Senior Member
Messages
7,370
Likes
0
Location
Lancaster, PA
#3
E36 probably has a comfort module like the e34 did - it's a box full of relays that control windows and stuff. Find out if it has something like this (or where window relays are) and test it.
 
Messages
4,917
Likes
18
Location
Reading,PA
#4
Just happened to have my Bentley in front of me.

There is a Comfort Relay on a 93 E36. It does supply power to both the roof and the windows. According to Bentley, the Aux Relay Panel contains 5 relays. It is located next to the steering column under the driver's dash. Remove the dash panel trim and driver's side knee bolster. Lower the panel by releasing plastic tabs.

The Comfort Relay is #1, located by itself in the triangular corner of the box.

I have never looked at this, so I can't verify Bentley, but it sounds correct.
 
Messages
3
Likes
0
Location
Kansas City, MO
#5
Thanx guys...I did check the lockout switch and all window switches-all checked OK. I will go to checking the comfort relay and let you know how it all turns out. BTW...what do you think I can expect to get out of the car odemeter mileage wise(300k)? The car gets 31 mpg now and is purring like a kitten. I may be switching from Saab to BMW, ;)
 


Top