Repairing Guides

how to repair electric window in car

by Christa Hauck Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Follow these steps to repair an electrical issue with your car's windows:

  • Locate and check the fuse for the problematic window motor. If it's blown, replace the fuse. A blown fuse can indicate...
  • Remove the door panel. Locate the securing screws, usually behind covers or trim, and undo them. The process of removing...
  • Check the electrical input on the power and ground...

Part of a video titled How to Fix Power Windows - YouTube
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You can get replacement clips at your local auto parts store. Most of them have them in stock. AndMoreYou can get replacement clips at your local auto parts store. Most of them have them in stock. And they simply snap back on this plastic that you see on here is called the weather shield.

Full Answer

How much does it cost to repair an electric window?

How much does it cost to fix power window if you will totally replace it? The cost is about $40 to $300. There are instances where both the regulator and the motor need to be replaced. In which case, you can expect a cost ranging from $50 to $850.

How much to replace electric car window?

Follow these steps to repair an electrical issue with your car's windows:

  • Locate and check the fuse for the problematic window motor. If it's blown, replace the fuse. ...
  • Remove the door panel. Locate the securing screws, usually behind covers or trim, and undo them. ...
  • Check the electrical input on the power and ground wires, which are generally the two largest wires connected to the window motor. ...

How to fix a car window that Won't Roll Up?

How to Fix a Car Window That Won't Roll Up?

  1. Remove the door panel to access the window's mechanics. ...
  2. Check the window glass's position in the track (s). ...
  3. For manual windows, check the operation of the crank and its connection to the scissor-shaped jacking mechanism.
  4. For electric-powered windows, check the fuse and wiring circuit to the motor, including the operation switch.

Why is my electric window not working?

Step 1 - Remove door panel

  • Use a trim tool remover to take off the switch panel. You can also pry it open with a flathead screwdriver without damaging it.
  • Find the metal clip that holds the panel in the arm rest. ...
  • After the clips are removed, remove the screw around the panel (Number 1 and 2 in the diagram below) and the ones that keeps the trim panel on the door ...

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How do I fix my electric window in my car?

Press and hold the window switch in a closed position. Keep the button depressed and push the side that closes the window. Open and slam the car door while the window button is depressed. Try it a few times until the window opens.

What causes the power window to stop working?

Window malfunctions are typically caused by a faulty window regulator (also called a window track), or a broken motor, cable pulley or window switch. Sometimes it can be a combination of those things. One of the biggest reasons power windows fail is because of snow and ice.

How much does it cost to fix a power window in a car?

A standard power window repair at a general automotive shop can cost between $400 – $600 depending on the vehicle. Most shops will opt to install a new window regulator and motor assembly even if the motor is fine.

Can power windows be fixed?

A broken power window can be an expensive repair, but if you have basic auto repair tools and access to an online service manual you can fix it yourself and save big bucks.

Does each car window have its own fuse?

Check the fuse Other cars have individual fuses for each window motor so failure will only affect the one window. In some cars the fuse is in the main fusebox but many makers use in-line fuses so check with your manual to find where the fuse is and replace it if blown.

How do you manually raise an electric window?

Hold the window shutter from the top and bottom and then take out the props supporting them. Tighten back the nuts that hold the window back to the regulator ledge. Ensure that you fasten the screws well. Then, place your hands beneath and above the window and pull it up as high as you can.

Why would only one power window not work?

If only one window stops working, the problem could be a bad relay, fuse issue, bad motor, or the power window switch has failed. The most common reason for one window to stop working is the switch, so this should be looked at by a professional mechanic to have your power window switch replaced.

How do I fix my power window switch?

2:014:30Power Window Switch Fix "How To" - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJust wiggle them around until they're clean. And once that's all done then your switch should workMoreJust wiggle them around until they're clean. And once that's all done then your switch should work perfectly. Well if it doesn't. And sometimes they can get a little bent on the end.

How much is a power window motor?

Replacement aftermarket window motors may go from $5 to $855, depending on different inclusions and other variations. As for labor cost, it may average around $120 to $150, but could be higher depending on how long it takes to replace the part.

Why won't my power window go up or down?

When a power window won't go up or down, the issue could be with the window motor. Without starting the car, turn the ignition to the accessory position. Engage the switch for the affected window and see if the voltmeter (if your vehicle has one) in the instrument panel moves even a slight amount.

How much does it cost to fix a car window that won't roll up?

Total Replacement: $150 to $1,100 In some cases, both the motor and the regulator can be worn out and need replacement. In this case, your mechanic might not need more time but you'll have to pay for both parts, which could bring the cost up significantly.

How do I know if my power window motor is bad?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Window Motor / Regulator AssemblyIt takes multiple presses to roll the window up or down.Window speed is slower or faster than usual.Clicking from the door when the window rolls up or down.Power window won't stay up or is crooked.

What do you do when your power window stops working?

The power window switch is among the more common reasons that we see for power windows not working. Sometimes, this switch can be cleaned and work just fine. Other times, the switch is just bad and should be replaced with a new OEM power window switch.

How can you tell if a window fuse is blown?

Remove the fuse from its holder. In some cases you may need a small screwdriver to unscrew the fuse holder cap. Look at the fuse wire. If there is a visible gap in the wire or a dark or metallic smear inside the glass then the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.

How do I know if my power window motor is bad?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Window Motor / Regulator AssemblyIt takes multiple presses to roll the window up or down.Window speed is slower or faster than usual.Clicking from the door when the window rolls up or down.Power window won't stay up or is crooked.

Where is the fuse for the power windows?

0:273:22Chrysler Town & Country - POWER WINDOWS FUSE LOCATION (2008YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIn the main fuse box just under the front hood the fuse box is located right here next to theMoreIn the main fuse box just under the front hood the fuse box is located right here next to the battery. To leave this cover you will have two black clips on the right. Side.

How to fix a mechanical window?

Follow these steps to repair a mechanical issue with your car's windows: Remove the door panel. Locate the securing screws, usually behind covers or trim, and undo them. The process of removing the door panel will vary depending on your particular car. Remove the vapor barrier, which is usually held in place with butyl ribbon sealer.

How to fix a window motor?

Follow these steps to repair an electrical issue with your car's windows: 1 Locate and check the fuse for the problematic window motor. If it's blown, replace the fuse. A blown fuse can indicate increased power draw due to a binding or worn mechanical component, so you should continue with then mechanical repair process once you replace the fuse. 2 Remove the door panel. Locate the securing screws, usually behind covers or trim, and undo them. The process of removing the door panel will vary depending on your particular car. 3 Check the electrical input on the power and ground wires, which are generally the two largest wires connected to the window motor. Attach the multimeter to the wires, then activate the window switch with the car's key in the on position. If you are getting power in both directions of the switch, then the electrical wiring to the motor is good, and the motor should be replaced. If you are not getting power to the motor wiring, then you need to check for power going to the window switch.

What screws do I need to fix a window switch?

To fix a mechanical issue, you will need: Door panel screws (commonly 8mm, 10mm, T30, or phillips)

How do I remove a door panel?

Remove the door panel. Locate the securing screws, usually behind covers or trim, and undo them. The process of removing the door panel will vary depending on your particular car. Check the electrical input on the power and ground wires, which are generally the two largest wires connected to the window motor. ...

What happens if you hear a broken window motor?

If you see a loose or broken cable and hear the motor moving when you hit the window switch, the window regulator may need to be replaced. If the cables are intact and the guides are aligned, the window motor may have stripped gears. Remove the motor from the regulator to check.

What happens if your car's windows are stuck?

If your car's electric windows are stuck open or stuck shut, it's a major inconvenience. If they're stuck open, you won't be able to close them in case of rain or to secure valuables. If they're stuck shut, you can't open them when you need to let in some fresh air or hand over cash at a toll both.

What to do if you are not getting power to the motor?

If you are not getting power to the motor wiring, then you need to check for power going to the window switch.

How to repair a window switch?

Photo 1: Remove the switch panel. Pry out the switch panel and disconnect the electrical connectors to begin power window repair. Then remove the door trim panel. Photo 2: Test the motor connector. Reconnect the switch panel and attach the voltmeter test leads to the motor connector. Then toggle the window switch.

How do I replace a window motor?

Start by removing the window-to-regulator bolts (have someone hold the glass while you do this). Then remove the glass by tilting it away from the door and lifting it out.

How long does it take to repair a window regulator?

A shop will charge you at least a few hundred dollars to replace the motor/regulator, but you can do a window regulator repair and power window repair yourself in about four hours. Regulators are available online or at auto parts stores.

Can you fix a broken power window?

A broken power window can be an expensive repair, but if you have basic auto repair tools and access to an online service manual you can fix it yourself and save big bucks.

Power window repair and replacement services

Our trained technicians at Safelite will ensure that you receive the best parts and service for your power window regulator. When we fix your side power window, the motor will work exactly how it used to before it needed service. The best part: We’ll fix your window fast and efficiently, so you can get back to using it quickly.

The best choice for power window repair

You operate your power windows more often than you probably think. From rolling them down to feel a fresh breeze, to grabbing lunch at a drive-through, to withdrawing money at a bank, you use power window switches constantly. We know how important it is to correctly fix your broken power window before it becomes a major inconvenience.

Manual window regulator repair

We service more than just newer makes and models. If you have an older vehicle and your manual window regulator won’t work, Safelite is the right place to get it fixed. Our trained technicians will repair or replace your manual window regulator with top-quality parts backed by our nationwide warranty.

What Goes Wrong?

The master window switch contains electrical contact points which make up the switch. As amperage is pulled through the switch via the window motor it can cause these contacts to overheat and burn out rendering the switch non-operational or semi-operational.

How Much Does it Cost?

A replacement master window switch can cost between $65.00 and $140.00 US depending on configuration and manufacturer, Amazon offers window switches at a reasonable price, passenger and rear door control switches are less. A shop will charge between .7 and 1.5 hours to change the switch out without testing, which will be an additional charge.

Before We Begin

There are two types of window switch replacement methods, the first is a simple removal of the window switch bezel which is held in with one or two screws or a snap clip which can be released using a small flat blade screwdriver.

Let's Jump In!

In this example the door panel will need to be removed to access the switch. To tell which type you have, look for a mounting screw near the switch bezel or try to gently pry up on the switch to see if it gives way and pops out, if not the door panel will need to be removed.

Watch the Video!

Window switch test and replacement video, when completed continue down the guide to glean additional information for the repair.

Questions?

Our certified technicians are ready to answer window not working and window switch questions for free. We hope you saved money and learned from this guide and video. We are creating a full set of car repair guides. Please subscribe to our 2CarPros YouTube channel and check back often for new videos which are uploaded regularly.

How do manual car windows work?

Manual windows: Manual car windows use a hand crank and a mechanical regulator to raise and lower the window glass inside the door. The gears in the regulator or crank can strip, the regulator can bend and deform, and the regulator can also get stuck due to friction if the lubricating grease dries out.

Why do manual and electric windows fail?

Since manual and electric windows have different components, they also fail for different reasons: Electric windows: Electric car windows typically use a reversible electric motor connected to a regulator to raise and lower the window glass. The switches, wiring, and motor can all go bad, and the regulator can also get stuck or fail altogether.

How to close a car door with a window switch?

It is very important to keep the button depressed, and make sure that you are pushing the side that closes the window. With the window button depressed, open and then slam the car door. If it doesn't work the first time, you can try it a few more times.

Why do power window motors fail?

Power window motors and switches can both fail over time, just due to normal wear and tear , but it's best to start any troubleshooting process with the simplest possible issue. In the case of power windows, that's the lockout switch.

How to roll up a stuck window?

Here's how to roll up a stuck electric window without any tools: Turn the ignition key to the on or accessory position. If the other windows are able to operate and you can turn on the radio, you have it in the right position. Press and hold the window switch in the closed or up position.

How to get a window rolled up?

You may be able to get the window rolled up by following this process if the window isn't all the way down: Turn the ignition key to the accessory position. With the door open, place your palms together with the window sandwiched between them. Have a helper push the window switch.

What happens if the window doesn't work?

If it doesn't work the first time, you can try it a few more times. If it does work, and you keep the button pushed, the window should roll up. If the window rolls up, don't roll it back down unless you are ready to actually fix the problem. This temporary fix may not work a second time.

How does a power window work?

Most power windows operate about the same. Power is supplied through a fuse, which goes to the switch, which then directs the power to the window motor. In the event of failure, the first thing is to check the fuse. If that’s okay, the next step is usually to determine whether it’s the switch or the motor that needs replacement.

How much does a factory door switch cost?

The labor time is estimated at 0.3 of an hour. A factory driver-door switch costs about $149, and a Standard part costs about $87. The window switch for any of the other doors costs about $23 for a factory part, and about $14 for a Standard part.

How much does a passenger side switch cost?

The passenger side switch costs about $204 for a factory part, and about $110 for a Standard part. This makes the job cost to fix power windows about $234 using factory parts, and about $140 using aftermarket parts.

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