98 BMW M3 vert top is making a "popping" sound when trying to open

Hey guys. Ive looked around on the site to try and find this answer, im just not exactly sure how to describe it. My top has been messed up for awhile. I had it almost working correctly (in sync) and now, when I push the button to let it down, all the tonneau cover motor does is just makes a popping or clicking sound like its catching on something. Ive looked at the cables, tried reseting it, but it still doesnt help. Ive also tried lowering it manually, setting everything back up, and trying to raise the top, but it does the same thing. Now the motor that lowers the top back doesnt come on anymore and the windows no longer lower (im guessing everythings out of sync again). Any ideas? Ive included a link to a short video I made of the noise. Thanks a bunch.


http://s1241.photobucket.com/albums/...oryofmylife26/

Stop doing that.
What is likely to be happening is your motor with gear has popped out of the assembly because the plate that holds the motor and gear has most likely bent. It could be something else but if I am right you may destroy the gear and once destroyed you cannot find a replacement. The fix is to remove the plate and straighten it.
If I am wrong then no idea what the pop or popping sound is. Verifying all linkages are operating correctly to include the motors and gears is the next logical step...

yea, I only done it to take the video. I took everything off, and I didnt see any bent pieces. I again traced the wires, and couldnt see any damage or what-not. So, im really not sure... Thanks for your reply.

Originally Posted by fun2drive

Stop doing that.
What is likely to be happening is your motor with gear has popped out of the assembly because the plate that holds the motor and gear has most likely bent. It could be something else but if I am right you may destroy the gear and once destroyed you cannot find a replacement. The fix is to remove the plate and straighten it.
If I am wrong then no idea what the pop or popping sound is. Verifying all linkages are operating correctly to include the motors and gears is the next logical step...

How come you can't find a replacement? So if this breaks on your drop top you're screwed for good?

If you destroy the gear you find another motor with gear attached new or used.
Cost is about 1:200 gear vs motor with gear so messing this up even once is costly...
Gear is never sold seperately nor are there aftermarket...