BMW Repair: power windows problem, wiring loom, haynes manual

Question
I have a 1987 bmw 325i,

i went to roll down all the windows in order to put the top down.  the windows rolled down fine.  however now they will not roll up.  i checked the fuse and it is fine.  the illumination for the power windows is also not working now.  if its not the fuse what can the problem be? do i need to get all new power window switches?  its weird that all of them at the same time dont work. it has to be some kind of electrical problem. where do i start?

thanks in advance,
chuck

Answer
Hiya!

generally, if they all fail at the same time, it's highly likely that there is an electrical failure affecting them all. Have you checked the following....

relay under drivers kneepad.
cutout switch

if you have a Haynes manual (if not, get one they are a huge help) you can check the wiring diagram and test for continuity and also bridge the relay to see if that works.

does the window switch have a sweet spot? where it can be depressed untill a certain point where it works?

I know this sounds daft, but if you slam the drivers door does that help?

check the wiring loom that connects to the drivers door for any signs of damage.

let me know if you have any luck.

regards

rob