HELP! Rear Plastic Window Broke!

BennyL · 03-08-2006, 11:41 AM

Hey guys, I need your help! Yesterday, I was opening the convertible top, and the plastic rear window just cracked right down the middle. The whole damn thing is broken now, and I taped it up until I can get it fixed. But it won't hold if we see some rain or snow. So I need to get it repaired ASAP!

Does anyone have any info on how the windows is built in to the top? is it replaceable?

I REALLY hope this isn't going to cost me a fortune...

I feel like the stealership will rip me a new one for this. Any alternatives would be great.

Anyone know anything about these windows/tops???

spooner_dee · 03-08-2006, 12:01 PM

according to the bently manual it is replacable, so you wont need a whole new top, it does however not tell you how to get it replaced. but atleast you can rest easy a lil bit knowing you dont need a whole new roof

http://www.bmw-convertible-window.com/E36Window.asp

that should be about your general cost for a new window. The window zips in and out from the top.

hope that helps, good luck

BennyL · 03-08-2006, 12:07 PM

i read through the convertible top section of the bentley manual... didnt find anything about the window. where'd you see that?

and please people, and help would be good!!! i need info on how the windows comes out, and how a new one goes in. i hop to g*d its not stitched in.

spooner_dee · 03-08-2006, 02:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BennyL

i read through the convertible top section of the bentley manual... didnt find anything about the window. where'd you see that?

and please people, and help would be good!!! i need info on how the windows comes out, and how a new one goes in. i hop to g*d its not stitched in.

541-1 of the bently manual, Convertable top, the very begining is where i found that lil piece of info.

Justin e36 · 03-08-2006, 12:33 PM

No, it's not stitched in... it's zipped in. It's still a PITA to replace, very cumbersome process to do. Here's what another member said about replacing his rear window, the process is similar: http://www.maxbimmer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=64950

BennyL · 03-08-2006, 01:20 PM

thanks justin and spooner

im going to ask BMWF1 more about it. and i'll call those guys who sell the replacement tops.

if anyone else has info or experience with this kind of thing, please post!

AMI Motorsports · 03-08-2006, 02:21 PM

Just remember this is a perfect example of why you don't put the top down when it is cold. As for the window you could probably get a boat top shop to install a new plastic in the old material might be cheaper.

spooner_dee · 03-08-2006, 02:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AMI Motorsports

Just remember this is a perfect example of why you don't put the top down when it is cold. As for the window you could probably get a boat top shop to install a new plastic in the old material might be cheaper.

yeah keep in mind that the window is made of flexible vinyl. (plastic) which becomes brittle with cold weather.

Use treatments on the next one to ensure that it doest become dried out and brittle and you dont see the same result in a few years on a cold day.

Justin e36 · 03-08-2006, 03:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spooner_dee

yeah keep in mind that the window is made of flexible vinyl. (plastic) which becomes brittle with cold weather.

Use treatments on the next one to ensure that it doest become dried out and brittle and you dont see the same result in a few years on a cold day.

However, do NOT use any products designed for glass on your rear window, or headlights. (i.e. windex, or glass cleaning products). These products contain agents that will pit and damage the plastic. Once damaged, dirt and grime can get trapped in these pits causing your headlamps and plastic rear window to yellow.

low_bmw · 03-08-2006, 02:36 PM

i think only 99's are zipped in and 94-98 are stitched. they go for about $1000 just the plastic window + your labour.

BennyL · 03-08-2006, 03:40 PM

so... what should i treat the new window with?

and low_bmw, i hope your kidding me. i check on the inside of the car, there is a zipper all along the perimiter of the rear window... so im assuming it is not stitched in.

318topless · 03-08-2006, 04:20 PM

ya guys my rear window is cracked also, and i think 99s only zip up, so what should i do take it to the dealer?

BennyL · 03-08-2006, 05:16 PM

where are you guys getting this information that only 99's are zip?

BennyL · 03-08-2006, 05:33 PM

in fact, according to realoem.com, you are incorrect: LINK

take a look at that diagram. look at #14. REAR WINDOW WITH ZIP FASTENER - Part Number 54318207803

i'm going to call Authohaus tomorrow and see how much they want for it. i also already e-mailed that guy with the website that spooner linked to.

spooner_dee · 03-08-2006, 07:37 PM

as for treatments, i dont know off hand, but go to an auto part store and just look at different cleaning/treating products, just something to keep it clean moisturized and healthy to last you as long as possible. like amorall for dash boards' and leather treatment for seats.. you get the idea.