BMW Repair: 1994 325i Convertible Top Inop, bmw service bulletins, body electronics


Question
Hello. I just bought a 1994 325i Conv. The top is electrically inoperative. All I know for sure is that the motor behind the left rear seat and the motor in the left rear quarter will work when connected to a jump box. Any hints?  Also, how do I know if I have a fully automatic top? If not, is there still a module involved that codes can be retrieved from? Finally, what aftermarket scanners (properly equipped modis, genisys etc.) will read these codes. Thanks!!!

Answer
Kevin, I don't know of any scanners that will read body electronics codes. A fully Automatic top will lock to the windshield cowl on its own. A Semi-auto top will have the twist handle to manual move the locks in the cowl as were there is also a full manual version aswell. Usually the microswitches are out of adjustment due to the sagging of the Elastic straps over time. There are also many BMW service bulletins on E36 convertible top issues.
-Evan