weird window operation

[Tom Christiansen]

Folks,

> > >These cars have a "thermal protection switch", sort of like a circuit
> > >breaker, that controls the windows and sunroof. Perhaps this is
> > >faulty.
>
>Didn't know it was thermal related, but teh window power control unit is
>in the relay box behind teh panel at the Driver's left knee.  Mine failed
>and caused all windows and sunroof to go inop at the same time.

I'm not sure it's a thermally actuated current limiter, but the way most
power windows work these days is that a current limiter sits in series with
the window switch and the window motor. When the window hits the end stop
(either fully up or fully down) the motor draws a much higher current. But
as the current is limited by the current limiter (may it be thermal or
solid state), nothing burns up. It is assumed that the user will let go of
the switch when the window is fully up/down.

That's why you notice that the lights will dim when you try to close a
fully closed window...

Tom