Replace Power Window Motor Test

How to Replace a Window Motor and Test the Switch

For those of us who have owned vehicles with manual windows and have had to hang over the passenger side trying to roll down the window to talk to a friend as you leave from the curb, power windows are a blessing. But when electric windows stop working where do you look? The window is controlled by four main parts; the window motor, the window regulator, the part that holds the window and the control switch. When you move the switch one way or the other, an electrical current is sent to the window motor forcing the window to go up or down depending on the direction of the switch.

Most window control systems are powered by a fuse or thermo fuse. A thermo fuse will cut power to the window circuit if too much electrical draw is being used. This serves as a safety device and helps keep the wiring from overloading due to over usage. Always wear protective safety goggles and gloves before work begins. (Warning: some electric window regulators are equipped with a helper spring that can have tension, use caution when disassembling)

Step 1 - Removing Door Access Panel

Remove Door Handle Bezel
Remove Door Handle Bezel

First remove all plastic access panels and screw hole covers.

Step 2 - Remove Control Switch Panel

Remove Window Switch Panel
Remove Window Switch Panel

Pry gently to remove the switch panel, (do not break). Removing the switch panel is different in all cars. Some vehicles don't have a switch panel because it is built into the door panel.

Step 3 - Disconnect Electrical Connector

Remove Window Switch Conenctor
Remove Window Switch Connector

After the switch panel is removed, release the connector safety and disconnect the electrical connector.

Step 4 - Removing Door Panel Mounting Bolts

Locate and Remove Door Panel Bolts
Locate and Remove Door Panel Bolts

Locate and remove all door panel mounting bolts and-or screws. Some door panels use plastic push style fasteners. After all door panel fasteners have been removed gently pull up and-or out on the panel and remove it. Remove all electrical connectors to fully separate the panel from the door.

Step 5 - Remove Plastic Insulator

Removing Plastic Door Panel Cover
Removing Plastic Door Panel Cover

Most car doors have a weather and sound insulator which when pulled back, will expose the inner workings of the door. In this photo you can see the door lock manual control rod.

Step 6 - Release Window Motor Electrical Connector and Identify Components

Remove Window Motor Electrical Connector
Remove Window Motor Electrical Connector

Prepare for electrical circuit test. Release the safety clip and remove electrical connector.

Step 7 - Testing the Window Motor Electrical Circuit

Testing Window Electrical Circuit
Testing Window Electrical Circuit

Reconnect the window control switch panel. With the electrical connector disconnected, insert automotive test light (test light is grounded to body) into either side of the connector. Turn key to the on position (do not start the vehicle). Actuate the switch in both directions. The test light should light up in one direction. Repeat this operation for the remaining electrical terminal. Next, switch the test light lead to battery positive and repeat test. The test light should light in both directions but on opposite sides of the connector.

Step 8 - Taping and Holding Window in Place

Tape Holds the Window Up While in Service
Tape Holds the Window Up While in Service

You must tape the window to prevent the window from moving. We use masking tape. This is used to keep the window in place while the window motor and regulator is removed. If tape or some other means of holding the window is not used, the window could slide down and cause damage or injury.

Step 9 - Removing Window Motor and Regulator

Removing Window Regulator Mounting Bolts
Removing Window Regulator Mounting Bolts

Remove all window mounting and regulator mounting bolts.

Step 10 - Remove Window Regulator

Removing Window Regulator
Removing Window Regulator

Remove window regulator after all of the window and window regulator mounting bolts have been removed.

Step 11 - Identify Window Regulator

Match Old Window Regulator to the New Unit
Match Old Window Regulator to the New Unit

After the window regulator has been removed thoroughly inspect and match the old window regulator to the new window regulator. Make sure all mounting bolts and window motor are in the exact same location. Reinstall new window regulator and reassemble door. There are minor adjustments for the window rails to reposition the window. Check the window operation and look for hard spots and clicking noises when the window is traveling up or down. A minor adjust may be required.

If further assistance is needed, our certified car repair technicians are ready to answer your car questions. Also, gain manufacturer specific instructions and information by clicking - Auto Repair Manual

Common Problems

  • The window motor shorts out and stops working or works very slowly
  • The window control switch short circuits due to excessive amperage draw

Related Car Repair Information