My bmw z3 convertible top won't open

wd40 does miracles

first you need to pull the top back untill it flips up, then you have to have your foot on the brake for the electronics to kick in when you push the button.

In general, without any testing or diagnosis, you could be dealing with any of the following:

* Open relay - Located at the pump unit
* Close relay - Located at the pump unit
* End position micro-switch
* The operating switch itself
* An issue with the pump unit, but I doubt this, due to the intermittent nature. However, do check the hydraulic fluid level.

The windows do not have to be down for the system to run.

The brake pedal must be pressed while operating the switch. There is a switch at the pedal that signals the convertible top system, but if your brake lights are functioning, the brake switch will not be at fault.

The system is pretty simple and some quick electrical tests should locate the faulty item.

The Bentley repair manual for the Z3 has all of the electrical wiring diagrams, for use in the diagnostics. You can purchase this at Bavarian Autosport 800-535-2002.

There are a couple of relay switches in the side of the top on the driver's side. One of these is not working. Your break lights are out because of this too. You have to apply the brake to lower or raise the top.

Check all your fuses there must have been a cut fuse that is not enabling power to reach it.

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It is possible that your differential could be making the sound. However, if the sound disappears when putting the trans in neutral, I would suspect that the differential should still be making noise. If the torque converter is worn, then you would have noise while in gear, but probably not as noticeable while in neutral. Depending on the production date of your car, 2000-early2001 Z3 had an issue with the torque converters.

make sure your car is in park and that you have your foot on the break....if you release your foot it will stop. So keep your foot on until it is fully open or fully closed and the passenger seat has returned to where you had it set prior to opening or closing

You must ensure that you have your foot on the brake and both windows are half down

Make sure you are pressing down on the break.

Also, to get the top to open you have to pop it up a bit manually. Then hold down on the break and press the button.

they are runon hydraulics you may have a leak in the hose but yes u can disconnect the motor and raise and lower it maunally