How to diagnose a broken window motor?

Author: Ova Wunsch  |  Last update: Thursday, August 21, 2025

A malfunctioning window motor could have grinding or squeaking sounds while moving the window. Slow or sluggish movement. If the window moves very slowly or with difficulty, the motor may be failing. It might also stall partway and you the button may need to be pressed additiona times to finish closing it.

How is power window failure diagnosed?

lights dim slightly in both directions, your switch is OK. You can also put a test light across the window motor terminals. The test light should light in the up and down positions only. Also check for any frayed or loose wires and repair if necessary.

How do you manually roll up a power window with a bad motor?

Stand at the end of the open door and place one palm on the outside of the window and the other palm facing it on the inside of the window. Pressing the glass firmly between your palms, slowly move your hands up to raise the window.

Does each window motor have its own fuse?

Generally most systems have only 1 fuse for the entire power windows so with only 1 window not working, I do not suspect a fuse and instead a faulty window motor or window switch.

Can you replace a window motor without replacing the regulator?

If you are only replacing the power window motor and not the regulator itself, you will need to disconnect it and connect it to your new power window motor. Visually inspect the two to make sure the new motor matches the old one, then swap the regulator.

How to Diagnose if the Window Motor or if the Window Regulator is Bad

How to tell if window motor or regulator is bad?

How do you know if it's the window regulator or the motor? If the window glass is going up crooked, sags into the door when it's not being used, or it has fallen, it's a window regulator issue. If it's an issue of movement, then the window motor is the usual suspect.

How much does a mechanic charge to change a window regulator?

The average cost of window regulator replacement can vary widely depending on the vehicle's make and model, the replacement process's complexity, and labor costs. On average, the window regulator replacement cost can range from $200 to $800.

How to tell if a window fuse is blown?

If the fuse is blown, pushing a window button will do nothing at all: The motor won't groan and the glass won't quiver. If the fuse is good and you can hear the motor, or the glass acts like it wants to move, then you've got some sort of mechanical problem.

Can I replace my window motor by myself?

While it can seem like a major repair to undertake, it's very doable for a DIYer if you take your time and work carefully. Here's what you need to know about how to replace a window motor.

What to do when window motor stops working?

What Can Cause Electric Windows to Fail?
  1. Check the window safety lock-out switch. ...
  2. Check the fuses. ...
  3. Push the window switch up and down and listen. ...
  4. Push the window switch and watch the dash gauges. ...
  5. Try the other switches. ...
  6. Swap switches if possible. ...
  7. Check power to the switch. ...
  8. Check power to the motor.

How to get electric window up when stuck down without?

Strike the Door: Using the palm of your hand or a soft object, deliver a light strike to the interior door panel. Aim for the area around the window switch and the door latch. Step 3. Simultaneously Operate the Window Switch: While hitting the door, hold down the window switch in the direction you want it to move.

How to fix a window that won't close all the way?

How to Fix a Window That Won't Close All the Way
  1. Step 1: Identify the Type of Window. ...
  2. Step 2: Inspect for Obstructions. ...
  3. Step 3: Check the Weatherstripping. ...
  4. Step 4: Examine the Window Hardware. ...
  5. Step 5: Adjust the Window Alignment. ...
  6. Step 6: Lubricate Moving Parts. ...
  7. Step 7: Check for Warping. ...
  8. Step 8: Consider Professional Help.

What is the first step in diagnosing a power window system?

The first step in troubleshooting any electrical issue is to check the basics. Fuse protection for power windows is frequently present, but overloads or electrical surges can cause them to blow. Consult your vehicle's manual to locate the fuse box and identify the fuse related to the power windows.

Do I need to replace my window regulator or motor?

These tips can help you determine if it's a motor or regulator you need. Listen for noises. When you press the window button, listen for any unusual sounds. A humming or grinding noise could indicate a motor problem, while a clicking sound might point to a regulator issue.

How to tell if a window relay is bad?

If the power window relay is bad, neither window will move. So, if the problem is only one one side, the relay is good. If you suspect that the power window relay is bad, you can remove the relay and jumper terminals 30 and 87 to power the window motors.

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.

Where is the window motor fuse?

This is usually located within the dash of the car by the steering wheel, and there is another under the hood of the car. Once you locate the fuse box that corresponds to the power windows, if the fuse is blown, replace it with the same type of fuse.

How do you get a window motor unstuck?

Rolling Up Stuck Power Window
  1. Open and slam your door while holding the window switch in the up position while the ignition is on.
  2. Hold the window switch in the up position and hit the spot over the motor with something blunt, like your fist.

Does each window motor have a fuse?

With some arrangements a single fuse in the main supply line is used to protect the complete window system so a failure here affects all the windows. Other cars have individual fuses for each window motor so failure will only affect the one window.

Why did my electric window suddenly stop working?

Blown Fuse or Circuit Issue

Electric windows rely on your vehicle's electrical system, which means a blown fuse or a problem in the wiring can stop them from working entirely. This should be one of the first things you check if your window suddenly stops functioning as it should.

How do I know if my window AC fuse is blown?

4 Signs and Possible Causes of A Blown AC Fuse
  1. Sign #1: Outdoor AC Unit. ...
  2. Sign #2: Strange Noises. ...
  3. Sign #3: Air Conditioner Stops Working. ...
  4. Sign #4: Burnt or Exhaust Smell. ...
  5. Tip #1: Check Your Fuse Wire. ...
  6. Tip #2: Replace the Blown Fuse. ...
  7. Tip #3: Contact a Professional. ...
  8. Tip #4: Schedule Regular Cleaning and Maintenance.

How long does it take to replace a window motor?

In order to fix a power window motor, a trained technician will need to replace all faulty components by unbolting the broken parts and replacing them with new ones. How long does it take to fix a power window? Experienced technicians can complete most power window repairs in one hour or less.

Does each window have its own regulator?

Each door window has its own regulator. Its role is to move the window up and down on its track, allowing it to open and close. There are two types of window regulators commonly used: a scissor-type regulator and a cable-operated regulator.

What causes a window regulator to go bad?

Worn Out Cables:

This happens because of overuse, abuse or being overused in colder temperatures. Temperatures make a major difference on the use and wear on your vehicle, especially the cables. Worn out cable guides or a frayed window regulator cable can cause abnormal noises when the window is moving.

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