BMW Z4 Sunblind System Stuck, Common Fix Needed

Hey there! I had some experience with a similar issue on my 2013 BMW 3-series (also had a 5-series before). I have some experience working with cars, but nothing too advanced. The electric sunblind motor in my car also failed, totally stuck and wouldn't budge. Took it to my regular workshop and they confirmed the motor unit was dead. Had to replace the entire motor assembly, which ran me about 330 Euro including labor. Pretty straightforward fix once they got the parts in, took them about 2 hours. Could you share more details about your Z4, like exact model/trim and whether you're getting any specific error codes? Also, does the motor make any noise when you try to operate it? This info would help determine if you're dealing with the same problem I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My Z4 is actually quite low mileage at 25153 KM, just had its latest service done. I'm getting a similar situation, no noise at all when pressing the controls. Good to know about the motor assembly replacement cost. Was wondering if you remember if they had to do any programming after installing the new motor? Also, did they mention anything about checking the fuses before going straight to replacing the motor unit?

Hey again! Glad to help with more details about my experience. Actually, funny you mention the fuses, that was one of the first things my mechanic checked on my 3-series, but they were all fine. Since you're getting absolutely no noise like I did, it's pretty similar to what I experienced. About the programming, yes, they did have to do some basic coding after installing the new motor unit. Nothing too complex though, took them maybe 15-20 minutes extra. They just needed to integrate it with the car's system to make sure everything communicated properly. The low mileage on your Z4 is interesting, mine had about 62000 KM when the motor died, so these things can just happen regardless of use. From what my mechanic told me, these motors can fail simply from sitting too long without use too. One thing I forgot to mention in my first reply, before they replaced the motor, they actually tried manually moving the sunblind to rule out any mechanical binding. Might be worth checking if yours moves freely by hand (carefully though!). If it's completely stuck even with manual force, it could be something jammed in the mechanism rather than just a motor issue.

Thanks for all those extra details! That's really helpful, especially about the manual check, I'll definitely try moving it carefully by hand before taking it in. Good to know about the programming being relatively quick too, I was worried that might add a lot to the cost. Actually tried checking all the fuses myself last night just to be thorough, and they're all looking good, so sounds like I'm heading down the same path as you. Interesting what you mentioned about motors failing from lack of use, makes sense since I don't use the sunblind that often, especially during winter months. Think I'll go ahead and book it in with my regular workshop next week. At least now I have a rough idea of what to expect both process and cost-wise. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, definitely feeling more confident about getting this sorted now!