Interior switches

[EGS]

I recently purchased another roadster. This one is an '01 2.5i with 67K. One of the areas where it will need some attention are the interior switches and window regulators. Everything seems stiff and a little sticky but there's no evidence of water damage.

Is it possible to use an electronics cleaner on power seat, window and mirror switches or should I just spend the $$ to replace them? For the windows, I plan to pull the door cards and apply some dry lube to the mechanism. Thoughts / suggestions are welcome.

I'll get after the water pump/thermostat, radiator and other bits once the weather warms. Rear diff mounts look pristine but will prob install the reinforcement plates sooner than later

[Vintage42]

... the interior switches and window regulators. Everything seems stiff and a little sticky... Is it possible to use an electronics cleaner on power seat, window and mirror switches or should I just spend the $$ to replace them? For the windows, I plan to pull the door cards and apply some dry lube to the mechanism...

Are the switches stiff and sticky, or are you referring to what they control? Switches do normally not get that way, and are replaced only when they break or fail to work. Can you explain more about the stiff and sticky? Get a CarFax to see what it might show. Some people say they are worthless, but I have found them accurate.
Windows sliders use grease lube.

[BladeRunner919]

I use electrical contact cleaner on pretty much anything that needs cleaning.

[EGS]

Are the switches stiff and sticky, or are you referring to what they control? Switches do normally not get that way, and are replaced only when they break or fail to work. Can you explain more about the stiff and sticky? Get a CarFax to see what it might show. Some people say they are worthless, but I have found them accurate.
Windows sliders use grease lube.

By sticky/stiff I mead that the switches don't move like I feel they should. The seat driver seat switch feels 'gritty' and doesn't always work when trying to lower the seat. Up, back and forward are all good.

[Vintage42]

By sticky/stiff I mead that the switches don't move like I feel they should. The seat driver seat switch feels 'gritty' and doesn't always work when trying to lower the seat. Up, back and forward are all good.

And Post #1 says the window and mirror switches, too. In using contact cleaner, check that is won't affect the plastics and vinyl that it will get onto. And also note that the seat switch is not very accessible, and the electrical contacts are semi-sealed in a case, so you may not be feeling the switch itself.
http://www.bimmerdiy.com/diy/e36powerseats/
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-...t/61311383475/

The window switch is a simple rocker so you may be just referring to the window action.
http://www.switchdoctor.net/bmw-z3-window-switch/

If the windows are slow it is likely that the plastic sliders need lubing with grease or replacing. As the motor strains against the friction, it is powerful enough to tear the regulator out of it mounts.
Get:
Four white plastic sliders (two per door), #51-32-1-938-884, in case you get in there and decide the old ones are worn thin.
Four door panel clips #51-41-1-973-500 in case you break any.
5 minute epoxy to re-glue any door clips you tear loose in removing the panels.
Can or tube of silicone or lithium grease. Lithium was original, but eventually hardens, and bearing grease can liquify.
DIYs:
https://forums.bimmerforums.com/foru...5#post27426485
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...5#post29753835
https://forums.bimmerforums.com/foru...placement-DONE!