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Question

The windows on my 318iS coupe (e36) continually go up and down 2-4 inches on their own, draining the battery. Someone told me it traces back to some control box under the glove box, i think i found the box. What is this box called, and is this a common problem? What other possibilities are there?

Submitted: 494 days and 13 hours ago.
Category: BMW
Value: $9
Status: 
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Optional Information

Optional Information:
1994 BMW 318iS 1.8 m42

Already Tried:
window motors are good, motors DO NOT have the independent ecm's on the motors.

Accepted Answer

Hi from JustAnswer!

The 1993 and up 318si had power windows controlled by the Comfort Module, or the "Body Electronics Control Module" ZKE IV . Before you replace the module be sure that checks are done to insure all inputs to it are not intermittently commanding the windows up and down.

The chances that the BECM is the source of the problem are higher since the windows are acting up even with the ignition off and key out. Sometimes a bad door jamb switch MAY cause the BECM to think you have not exited the car and keep other accessories powered up while you're gone, but it's hard to come up with a combination of two bad components that will cause your exact symptom. 318isi's have had common problems with central control of power windows, locks and sunroof - all of which are monitored and controlled by the comfort module. Relocating the module to the glove box area from the right kick panel solved water intrusion problems but a defective BECM can be caused by simple old age.

 

Expert: classictech
Pos. Feedback: 100.0 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 7/16/2008

ASE Certified Technician

20 years field experience

493 days and 17 hours ago.

Reply

Reply to classictech's Post: Yes, my service manual mentioned that part, exact down the the ZKE IV, but BavAuto didn't show that part. I agree with you about the part, but can you help me find a cheap replacement? My local BMW dealer didn't know what i was talking about when i told him i needed the ZKE comfort module, but he told me he could find me one if i could get him the part number. I'm sure the part number is on it, just couldn't get out of work in time to go out and pull the module. Help me find a cheap one!

Posted by classictech 493 days and 3 hours ago.

Answer

I again,

The dealer parts man might be able to get further if you called it the Body Electronics Control Module or the Power Window control module. In almost all cases the part number depends on the VIN of your vehicle so supplying him with the Vehicle ID number is all that's normally required. The part number of the module changed several times, and further depends on the factory-installed trim options and you do not want to purchase the wrong module! I know of no aftermarket suppliers for the module remanufactured or new, unfortunately.

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