Expert: Josh Fields - 3/8/2006

Question
Josh, my remote mirrors stopped responding to the switch.  This happened about the same time as my driver side front window started going up in spurts when I raise it.  It moves about 6 inches stops, and I have to keep pushing the button.  It goes another 6 inches and I repeat the process until it gets to the top.  I sense that it is related to the mirror problem.  I wanted to check the fuses under the back seat, but I can't get the seat removed.  I have already checked the fuses under the front hood and they are ok.  Does it sound like a fuse? Can you tell me how to raise the seat.  Thanks Josh.

Answer
Declan,
 I have never removed a seat from a 7-series, but it should be just like the 5-series.  It seems like it is unmoveable, but if you grab the bottom of the seat where the carpet meets the seat, you should be able to "pop" it up.  If you are putting too much force on it, it might be stuck.  No tools should be needed to remove this seat.  Some of the electrical problems can be a pain to sort out, but my guess is the switch(s) are malfunctioning.  This is especially true is you or the previous owner has spilled a drink (other than water) onto the switches.  The sugar will get in there and coat the contacts, preventing a good connection.  You should be able to pop out the window switch and clean it with some contact cleaner.  
 I would try this first, then move on to buying parts

 Hope this helps,
 Josh