Author Topic: Weird Power Window Fuse Issue (Read 3861 times)

rycar550 · « **on:** May 02, 2011, 10:58:26 AM »

Hey guys,

I am having an issue where I am blowing a ton of power window fuses (fuse 17?). Sometimes it happens when I use a window switch, other times, the fuse will blow the minute I turn the ignition on. Which is weird to me, because I would think that it would not be drawing power at this point. The circuit breaker in the cabin is not tripping. In fact, I have replaced it, and the problem still remains.

Not sure how to start the troubleshooting process here. Any suggestions?

Thanks!
Ryan
1991 318i

carlos318is · « **Reply #1 on:** May 02, 2011, 02:45:00 PM »

Cant remember what else runs on fuse 17 but I would unplug the window switches first and go from there

romeomike · « **Reply #2 on:** May 24, 2011, 05:06:17 PM »

Hi:

First, ensure you're using a 30A fuse. If that blows, you probably have a short or a window motor that's drawing too much current. For testing purposes, you can temporarily use a 40A fuse and see which window switch would trigger your circuit breaker to pop. From there, you isolate the wiring segment/motor having the fault and repair that.

Good luck with it and adios for now,

RM

DesktopDave · « **Reply #3 on:** May 24, 2011, 08:18:39 PM »

Maybe swap relay K5 with another one to make sure that's not the trouble?

You also might have a broken wire intermittently shorting inside the driver's door harness. That'll cause a short as soon as the switches get power regardless of switch function. Carefully pull the door's body plug from the frame and test those pins for continuity to the door itself.

rsdvr6 · « **Reply #4 on:** November 29, 2011, 12:30:38 AM »

Was there a fix that is common for this? My driver's side power windows blow the fuse too but only when you let the driver's side front window down (318i sedan). Thinking it may be the window motor but not sure. Is anyone familiar with any "known" issues with the driver's side window motors, switches or even flex points for the wiring harness in the door?

DesktopDave · « **Reply #5 on:** November 29, 2011, 07:21:01 AM »

The fuse blows only when the window goes down? If so, I'd suspect the switch itself. The door harnesses are pretty robust.

It's a PITA but I'd pull the door panel & check the motor for water incursion & lube the works.