If your power window stops working and won’t go up, you can attempt a manual fix by removing the screws on the door panel, detaching the console, and taking off the panel and polyethylene cover. Next, disconnect the motor by removing the motor cover and axle, then reconnect by placing the axle back and tightening the motor. However, if you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, power window repair services are a great alternative, providing skilled technicians to restore your window’s functionality efficiently.
Step-by-Step Guide to Manually Raising a Power Window
Here’s how you can do it:
1: Accessing the Door Panel
- Begin by finding all screws that hold the driver's side door panel in place. These may be plastic or metal. The screws may be located under plastic covers, behind the door handle, and beside the courtesy light. Remove these screws with care and set them aside in a safe place for reassembly.
- The next step is to remove the door console using your flathead screwdriver. In some models, this small plastic component houses the window and door lock controls.
- Next, pull apart the two plastic wire connectors that link the door console to the vehicle's wiring system. Set the door console aside.
- With all screws undone, it's time to remove the door panel. Start at the front edge and gently pry it away using your hands or a flathead screwdriver. Work around the edges so the plastic clips disengage without breaking. Lift the panel off to expose the inner workings of the door.
- Cut the polyethylene cover along the inside edge of the door using a razor blade; this will allow you to access the area more easily rather than removing the whole thing.
2: Disabling the Window Motor
- Find the screws securing the window to the regulator mechanism. You should see two screws inside the door frame. Carefully unscrew them while holding the window to prevent it from falling.
- While supporting the window from underneath, pull it up as high as possible. Insert the wood or painter's tape to brace the window's elevated position temporarily.
3: Remove the Motor
- Find the motor within the door at the top right corner. Remove it using bolts or nuts and fix it to the door frame.
- Before you remove the cover, secure the nuts with tape so you don't lose them. After being taped, it is safe to unscrew and remove the cover. It will have magnetic pulls, so be careful.
- The brushes holding the motor axle are spring-loaded. Hook two rubber bands between the wires hooked to the brush and attach these to the regulator. Then, turn the motor axle counterclockwise to extract it from the motor body, but do so gently.
4: Reconnecting the Window and Motor
- Holding on to the window from above and below, change the screws used to attach the regulator mechanism. If you need to remove power window motor from regulator, ensure the glass is securely braced before proceeding.
- Once the motor is detached, carefully remove the bracing and push the window up with both hands, ensuring a firm grip underneath to support and stabilize it from falling.
- Using your left hand, carefully insert the motor axle back into the motor housing. Do not make it hard while ensuring the brush is properly set to its prior position. Proceed to rotate clockwise until seated properly.
- Carefully put the motor cover back in place, being careful not to dislodge the axle. Once in place, secure it with the proper bolts.
- Screw the bolts and nuts back to lock the motor onto the door frame. Screw the wires in place and do not reconnect them for the time being, as the window is not operational now.
5: Reassembling the Door Panel
Just before replacing the door panel, you need to fit the polyethylene cover for insulation and protection. Here are the steps you can follow:
- Insert the door handle into the panel.
- Fix the door panel's top rear edge in the door frame's lip.
- Snap back the door console and rejoin the plastic wire connectors.
- Push the panel gently back into position along the edges.
Finally, put back all screws that were removed at the beginning to ensure the door panel is securely fastened.
Preventive Measures and Maintenance
To minimize the risk of the power window being unable to move up or down:
- Regular Inspection: Check window seals, tracks, switches, and wiring regularly for signs of wear or damage.
- Clean Window Tracks: Remove debris and apply appropriate lubrication to ensure smooth operation.
- Avoid Overuse: Limit the use of automatic windows when not necessary to reduce wear on components.
- Avoid Forcing the Window: If the window doesn’t move easily, don’t force it. This can damage the motor or regulator.
- Professional Maintenance: Have a qualified auto glass technician inspect your vehicle's electrical systems regularly.
Conclusion
Making a power window go up manually involves a systematic approach: carefully removing the door panel and detaching the door console. Disengaging the motor and addressing the window’s mechanism allows you to lift the window smoothly. Reassembling the door requires reattaching the polyethylene cover and securing the panel with screws. Understanding the causes of power window stop working, such as faulty motors, damaged switches, or worn-out regulators, can help you diagnose and address issues more effectively.
Regular inspections of seals, tracks, and wiring are essential to prevent future power window failures. Additionally, maintaining clean window tracks, avoiding overuse, and seeking professional maintenance by experts like Blue Diamond Auto Glass can ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle's windows.
