BMW Repair: Passenger side electric seat only goes back, bmw 323ci, seat wiring

Question
My car is a BMW 323ci convertible (1999-2000).
The problem is that the passenger side electric seat goes back, but doesn't go forward, tilt or raise.

I took it to a mechanic, who is not an electrician, and he wanted to get the seat off, but couldn't as the seat is now so far back it covers the rear bolts.

I suspect that you probably don't need to take the seat off to resolve this problem.

Can I have some advice on how to diagnose and pinpoint the problem? In prticular I would like details on how to expose the electrics (without breaking stuff).

Also, what is your hunch? What di you think the problem is?

Cheers

Andy  

Answer
Sorry for the delay, answered this days ago and now i see it wasnt sent so here we go again.

First thing to look for ,possibly with a mirror and a light would be something blocking the tracks , stopping the seat from going forward.such as a coin .You would hear the motor trying to go forward tho.

Other than that, the fact that it goes back and not forward suggests that the motor is ok and the problem is a power supply.

Firstly, and i know it sounds silly, remove the knob that you use to operate the switch as the break internally.then try to operate the switch without the knob.t

Failing that you will need a power probe,a light and a mirror to supply power to the motor to get it to go forward.

I would look at the other seat wiring and familiarize myself with the location or the wires to the appropriate motor.

Good luck with the bad back and neck you will have staring under the seat.

Tony