BMW M3 Power Windows Dead: Multiple System Failure

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2012 BMW M5 last year. The symptoms were exactly like yours, all windows stopped working simultaneously. Initially thought it was the regulator too, but turned out it was actually the main power window switch module in the driver's door. When I took it to the garage, they diagnosed it using their computer system first. The master switch was completely dead, not even sending signals to the individual window motors. They needed to replace the entire switch panel unit, and it wasn't just a quick fix, they had to remove the door panel and disconnect several wiring harnesses. It wasn't a major mechanical issue, but definitely something that needed professional attention due to the electrical components involved. The repair took about 2-3 hours to complete. One thing worth mentioning, they also checked the wiring to make sure there weren't any shorts causing the problem. Given that all your windows stopped at once, I'd bet you're dealing with the same master switch issue rather than individual regulators. Hope this helps with your decision.

Hey, thanks for sharing your experience! That's actually super helpful since it sounds exactly like what I'm dealing with. I've been worried it might be something more serious, but hearing it could just be the master switch gives me some hope. Mind if I ask how much you ended up paying for the repair? Also, has everything been working smoothly since then, or have you had any other electrical issues pop up? Just trying to get an idea of what I might be in for. Thanks!

Hey again! Glad I could help! Just wanted to update you, I actually took my M5 to the mechanic last week for the same issue we discussed, and you'll be relieved to hear it was indeed the faulty window regulator. They fixed it up, and everything's working perfectly now. The total bill came to 200 € for the power window switch replacement, which honestly wasn't as bad as I'd feared. Since the repair, all the windows are working like a charm, no weird noises, no sticking, just smooth operation like when the car was new. Haven't had any other electrical gremlins pop up either, so I'm pretty confident it was just that isolated issue with the switch. If your symptoms are similar to what I experienced, you're probably looking at a comparable repair cost. Trust me, it's worth getting it sorted by a professional, trying to DIY electrical stuff on these cars can be a real headache. Just make sure they use genuine parts and you should be good to go! Let me know how it works out for you!

Thanks for the update! I actually went ahead and got it fixed yesterday at a different mechanic. You were spot on about the master switch, that's exactly what it was! The repair cost me around 250 since they had to order the part, but honestly, I'm just relieved it wasn't something more serious. The mechanic I found was really thorough, showed me the old switch and explained everything they were doing. Such a different experience from my last guy! The repair took about two hours, and now all my windows are working perfectly. They even cleaned and lubricated all the window tracks while they were at it. Really appreciate your advice about going with a professional. I was tempted to try fixing it myself after watching some YouTube videos, but dealing with the electrical system definitely would've been over my head. Thanks again for sharing your experience, helped me make the right call on this one!