BMW 1 Series Window Failure: Solutions and Repair Costs

Hey there! I have some experience with car maintenance, and I actually faced a similar issue with my 2012 BMW 3 Series last year. When my power windows and several electrical components started acting up, it turned out to be a failing battery. The workshop diagnosed it quickly, the old battery wasn't holding charge properly anymore, causing various electrical glitches. Got it fixed by replacing the battery, cost me about 290 Euro at my regular workshop. After that, all the electrical systems, including the windows, worked perfectly again. Before jumping to conclusions about the window regulator though, could you share what error codes you're getting? Also, are you noticing any other electrical issues, like dim lights or slow starter? This info would help determine if you're dealing with the same battery-related problem I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Mine's also well-maintained with 48765 KM on the clock since my last service. Actually, I'm seeing different symptoms than yours, windows are completely dead, no response at all when pressing switches. No other electrical issues though, starter and lights working just fine. Getting error code 93C8 specifically for the window control. Seems more focused on the window system rather than a general electrical problem. Really hoping it's just the initialization process and not a full regulator replacement needed.

Yeah, I see what you mean, that's definitely different from what I experienced with my 3 Series. When my windows acted up, it was part of a bigger electrical issue. But in your case, with error code 93C8 and only the windows being affected, it does sound more like a window-specific problem. Just to share, after I got my battery replaced and everything was working fine, I actually did run into a window regulator issue about six months later. The symptoms were pretty similar to what you're describing, completely unresponsive windows and a specific error code. Turned out the regulator had worn out, and the initialization process wouldn't solve it. If you're getting no response at all from the switches and everything else is working fine, I hate to say it, but it might be more than just needing initialization. I ended up having to get the regulator replaced, which set me back about 400 Euro including labor. But hey, at least try the initialization process first, it's worth a shot before spending money on parts. Just don't be too surprised if you end up needing the regulator replaced like I did. Have you tried disconnecting the battery for about 15 minutes? Sometimes that can reset the system and might give you a better idea if it's an initialization issue or something more serious.

Thanks a lot for the detailed response! That's really helpful info about your experience with both the battery and regulator issues. I actually tried disconnecting the battery for 20 minutes yesterday but no luck with that reset attempt. You're probably right about it being more than just initialization, especially since there's zero response from the switches. Really wasn't hoping to spend that much, but 400 Euro for the regulator replacement seems to be the going rate. Guess I'll bite the bullet and book it in with my workshop next week. Better to fix it properly than keep trying workarounds. Thanks again for all the advice, at least now I know what I'm likely dealing with and roughly how much to expect on the bill.