Window switch

E30s have an annoying problem with the window switches where they will just start working intermittantly, work in one direction only, or stop working altogether. It is an easy fix.

Firstly you need to pry the switch apart, below the tabs holding it together are arrowed. There are the same tabs on the other side. You have to free all 4 or the switch will not open.

Use a pen knife to pry the tabs open. Slide it between the outer casing and the base an twist gently, applying outwards pressure to the base. Get the one side free as shown in the pic below (dont open too much, just get it free of the clips), then turn it over and repeat on the other side.

You will then be able to pull it apart like shown in the pic below. Be careful as there are 2 springs inside so hold it with the base facing up and pull the base gently clear.

Now you will see the following. Arrowed are the points that burn up. Use an earbud and a small screwdriver to clean all the burning off and get both contacts shiny. Use contact cleaner if you have some (you can buy it from electronic shops).

Once you have them all clean like shown below, put the base back into the main frame and press together to close. Hopefully your switch will work for a while to come!!