54 0... Notes on steel and glass slide/tilt sunroofs (initialization/normalization/learning of characteristic curve)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 16 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW 330Ci, 2005 BMW 330xi, 2005 BMW 330i, 2005 BMW 330Ci, and 2004 BMW 330xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Initialization comprises:

Normalization
Learning characteristic curve

The mechanical end positions are recorded and stored during normalization.

The characteristic curve is learned immediately after normalization.

When the characteristic curve is learned, the mechanical closing forces of the slide/tilt sunroof are recorded and stored for correct operation of the anti-trapping mechanism.

NOTE: An initialization must be performed:

In the event of malfunctions, e.g. no one-touch function, no opening or no comfort function possible.
After disengagement of the drive unit.
If necessary, after an interruption of the power supply.
After work is carried out on the mechanism of the slide/tilt sunroof.

NOTE: The initialization sequence is dependent on the software version of the slide/tilt sunroof module (in the sunroof drive unit).

If necessary, code slide/tilt sunroof drive unit.

WARNING: There is no anti-trapping protection during initialization.

Normalization:

Press and hold the switch in the "Lift" direction.
In the event of delayed starting or sudden stopping of the slide/tilt sunroof, continue pressing the switch in the "Lift" direction.

Fig 1: Pressing Switch
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
After reaching lift end position (A), keep switch pressed for approx. 20 seconds further.
Normalization is completed when the slide/tilt sunroof in lift end position (A) presses again briefly in the direction of position (B).
Release switch.

Fig 2: Releasing Switch
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Learning characteristic curve:

E38 from 9/98; replacement of drive unit

E39 from 3/98

E46 Compact

E46 Saloon, Touring, CoupeA from 09/2001; initial equipment of drive unit

E46 Saloon, Touring, CoupeA; replacement of drive unit

E53 slide/tilt sunroof (not: panoramic glass sunroof):

The curve is learned manually in the following steps:

Release switch after normalization for max. 5 seconds.
Then hold down the switch in the raising position direction until such time that the slide/tilt sunroof has returned to the closed position after a complete opening movement.
This concludes learning of the curve. The switch can now be released.

Fig 3: Pressing Switch

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Carry out function check (one-touch function, anti-trapping protection and, if necessary, comfort function).

E38 up to 9/98; initial equipment and replacement of drive unit

E39 up to 3/98:

In these cars, the curve is learned automatically during operation by way of the module.

After normalization, open and close slide/tilt sunroof fully once by pressing switch.

In the event of faulty triggering of the anti-trap protection facility in specific positions, the fault can be rectified by moving over the relevant position numerous times.

E38 from 9/98; initial equipment of drive unit

E46 Saloon, Touring, CoupeA up to 09/2001; initial equipment of drive unit:

The curve is determined by means of coding.