If your car is equipped with an electric window lift, it could happen sooner or later that the window does not respond as well as it should. If the crystal freezes completely, the problem could be a simple blown fuse or a false electrical contact. In some cases, the malfunction lies in the key, especially if the mechanism works in fits and starts. Even the motor itself can break; in this case, you should notice a gradual reduction in the ability of the window to rise and fall, although a "slow" window may also indicate some obstruction in the seal. Once the problem is identified, you can fix it with a few simple tools.
Steps
Method 1 of 5: Change the Fuse
Step 1. Locate and open the fuse box
This should be inside the car or near the dashboard.
Step 2. Consult the operation and maintenance manual to find the one that protects the window lifter system
It is not uncommon that the only problem with a car's electrical component malfunction is a simple blown fuse. In this case you just need to replace it.
Step 3. Pull the fuse out of its housing, taking care to apply straight pull
Be careful not to twist it or otherwise force it, otherwise you could damage the housing itself or break the fuse, fragments of which could get stuck. You can buy pliers or fuse pullers at all hardware and electronics stores, which will prove to be very useful for this job.
Step 4. Locate the replacement fuse
This must have the same amperage as the original that protected the window lifter system. Typically, the amperage is printed on the fuse itself and should also be noted in the user manual. Do not use a replacement with a higher amperage, as it may cause damage to the vehicle's electrical components.
Step 5. Push the new fuse into the fuse holder, applying straight pressure
The fuse must fit tightly - meaning it must not move or wobble.
Step 6. Turn the ignition key to the "on" position
In this way, you supply electricity to the window and you can test the mechanism. It is not necessary to start the engine.
Step 7. Check the windows
Make sure everyone can get on and off without a problem.
Method 2 of 5: Repair the Window Seal
Step 1. Assess the condition of the window seals and seals
They should be in good condition, because they are the elements that prevent rain from entering the passenger compartment, ensuring a watertight seal around the window when it is raised. In addition, they contribute to sound insulation.
Step 2. Check the entire seal channel for foreign objects
Any obstruction in this part prevents the window from going up or down properly. Before continuing, you should remove any leaves or pebbles present.
Step 3. Clean the gasket with acetone
This solvent removes residues of grease or dirt that have accumulated and that could obstruct the movement of the window or interfere with the seal of the gasket itself.
Be very careful not to get acetone on the body paint or cabin upholstery. It is better to lightly moisten a cloth with the solvent and then rub it on the gasket, rather than pouring the liquid directly
Step 4. Repair any small tears
You can do this with adhesive or rubber glue. Remember to cut any dangling corners with a razor blade to get a good seal.
Step 5. Replace the gasket
It may need to be replaced if the original one has large cuts or many small cracks. Know that it is still a simple job.
- Use a specific tool to insert between the glass and the gasket itself.
- Hook the tool under the seal and pull up.
- Once the old gasket has been removed, insert the replacement one in the same position as the original one, pressing firmly so that it fits perfectly.
Step 6. Lubricate the seal channel with silicone spray
This way, the window slides smoothly.
Step 7. Check the window lifter system again
If the problem is resolved, the window should go up and down without difficulty or slowdown.
Method 3 of 5: Repair a Wiring Problem
Step 1. Find the wiring diagram of your vehicle's system
Typically, this information is listed in the user manual, but you can also find it online.
Step 2. Locate the wires connecting the fuse box to the window lift switch
You need to refer to the specific diagram for this operation. Make sure there are no gaps in the connection between these two elements. If you do not find the system diagram, remember that, for this inspection, it is easier to follow the path of the cables that go from the switch to the fuses.
Step 3. Use a multimeter to make sure that the key is connected to a potential difference of 12 V
Connect the meter probes to where the wires enter the switch and set the multimeter to D / C volts. You should see a value of 12 volts.
Step 4. Check the wiring from the switch to the window motor
This is the path followed by the electrical signal to trigger the window movement when you press the button. If there are any interruptions or false contacts, the motor is not working properly.
Step 5. Use a multimeter to verify that the motor is receiving 12 V power
As you did earlier, set the meter to D / C volts and check that the value equals 12 volts.
Step 6. Look for any voltage drop caused by loose connections or corrosion
If any connections are rusted or loose, the circuit fails to properly transmit the signal, causing the window to malfunction.
Step 7. Repair loose connections and corrosion areas
Push the wires into the harness adapter so they fit snugly and remove any rust with a wire brush or similar tool.
Step 8. Test the window again
If the problem was with the electrical circuit and it has now been repaired, the window should now go up and down without any difficulty or slowing down.
Method 4 of 5: Replace a Malfunctioning Switch
Step 1. Find the window switch panel
This is nothing more than the button you use to lower and raise the glass. Generally, it is located on the door, although in some cases it is placed in the center of the dashboard.
Step 2. Remove the switch panel
Be careful not to scratch the one on the door during this operation, which is usually done with leverage. Insert a rag or piece of cardboard under the tool you use to pry.
Step 3. Unplug the wiring from the switch
You will need to test them to be sure they provide a potential difference of 12 V.
Step 4. Use a multimeter to check each connection
Set the meter to D / C volts and insert the probes into the connector. You should get a value of 12 volts.
Step 5. Check the wiring of any switch that has a low voltage
Secure the connections and eliminate any signs of corrosion.
Step 6. Test another switch
Remove the one in another door and connect it to the connectors on the malfunctioning window. If you can operate the power window with this switch, the original one is broken and needs to be replaced.
Step 7. Buy a new switch
Call your dealer or auto parts store to order the part.
Step 8. Install the new switch
Just connect it to the electrical wiring and snap it back into its housing.
Method 5 of 5: Replace the motor or window regulator
Step 1. Remove the interior door panel
This will vary by car model, but typically you will need to remove screws in the center of the panel (such as inside the handle) and use a tool to pry around the perimeter until the hooks pop open. Sometimes it is necessary to remove elements, such as door seals and moldings.
Step 2. Use a multimeter to make sure the motor is receiving the correct voltage
Connect the meter probes to the motor connections and push the switch up and down. Write down the voltage you detect for both actions and compare it with the specifications you find in the user and maintenance manual.
Step 3. Make sure the window moves freely during this test
There should be no blockages or slowdown points.
Step 4. Disconnect the motor from the power supply
If this element gets the right voltage, but doesn't work as it should, you need to replace it. To get started, unplug the harnesses.
If the starter runs well, but the window does not respond as a result, the regulator may need to be replaced
Step 5. Remove the bolts securing the regulator to the crystal
This is the mechanism that raises and lowers the window. To remove it, you will have to raise or lower the glass completely to align the bolts with the holes on the inside of the door. Insert a socket wrench (usually 8 or 10mm) into the holes and loosen the two bolts.
Step 6. Raise the crystal completely
Use your hands for this and then secure the glass with masking tape. Alternatively, you can pull it completely out of the door panel.
Step 7. Disconnect the harness adapter from the motor
You will need to lower the clip that locks the cables in place and then pull the adapter. It is not always easy to press this clip, in some cases it is better to use a screwdriver.
Step 8. Unscrew the adapter and / or motor from the inside of the door
You must remove each bolt securing the motor and adapter.
Sometimes, these bolts are difficult to unscrew; you can use a socket wrench with an extension to access them at the right angle and loosen them
Step 9. Pull out the motor and adapter into one block
Once they have been taken apart, you can separate them and replace the malfunctioning element.
Step 10. Reassemble the governor / motor
When you have replaced the damaged part, regardless of whether it was the motor or the regulator, you must re-install the lock inside the door and secure it in its original position with the bolts.
Step 11. Connect the new motor to the power supply
Insert the harness adapter into the window motor. This again supplies electricity to the element, so you need to proceed with caution.
Step 12. Lower the window back to the correct position on the harness adapter
Remove the tape or insert the glass into its housing. Make sure that the tabs at the base of the window are properly aligned so that you can screw the window onto the regulator.
Step 13. Screw the glass to the regulator
Use the bolts you removed and the socket wrench extension you used earlier to join the window to the regulator.
Step 14. Test the window
It should now drop down and up smoothly every time you flip the switch.
