E320 W210 Window Regulator

[MB_LEE]

I have a 2001 E320 that has had both its rear window regulators replaced in the last year. Fortunately for me they were under MBZ warranty. (This warranty covers me through March 09).

I have searched the forums threads and see that this is a frequent problem. For my obsessive future planning......

Through out the regulator threads that I have read it appears that members are referring to their rear window repairs.

1) Should I expect the front driver/passenger windows to also fail?

2) "If" this problem comes up best what is the best info location for removing the driver / passenger door panel for a 01 W210.

3) Can this be headed off by jumping in and replacing any thing, other than the entire regulator such as the rivet that fails etc.

Thanks,

Lee

PS Last MPG check, 29+ over the last 3K miles.

[Robert Squires]

* Best preventive maintenance is what you're probably already aware of. If the window is ice-stuck (assuming you live in the north) free-up the window some other way than with the window motor. And, in general, when the window is up, tell the kids not to keep pushing the switch.
* If you look at the window regulator action with the door panel off you'll notice the flex in the sheet metal at closure. The motor and gearing make for a powerful drive (and the motor doesn't know when the window has made closure contact). I personally think that MB could make the motor a little weaker or change the gearing, at the same time that they strengthen the regulator pivots.

[Matt L]

The rear regulator uses a cable to lift the window, whereas the front uses a lever as in earlier cars. I don't think you should expect trouble with the fronts.

When the car is out of warranty, flip the child inhibitor switch and simply quit using the rear windows. Yes, I'm being serious.

[thornton]

My local independent suggests just the opposite, as in "use it or lose it" on a regular basis and you should be fine.

[Matt L]

Your local independent probably doesn't mind a rear regulator job. It's easy enough to be very profitable.

[TMAllison]

Originally Posted by thornton

My local independent suggests just the opposite, as in "use it or lose it" on a regular basis and you should be fine.

That logic might be applicable to the motor and window switches; can't see how it applies to the metal framework and cable of the regulator.