Broken Window, Broken Regulator?

2017 SUBARU IMPREZA
80,000 MILES • AUTOMATIC
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SILVERBUG
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hoping for some insight! My window is totally shattered. I accidentally pushed the window control down, and now this part is sticking out of the channel. I believe that's what would hold the glass onto the regulator, if I still had glass...

Does this suggest that my regulator is damaged? I called Safelite, and they told me the internals are "probably mangled," but some Facebook mechanics think this should just be a glass replacement. Is there a way for me to check?

I'm asking because I'm not sure what my next step should be. If it's just glass, Safelite will fix it for like $350. If the mechanism is damaged, my insurance deductible is $500. I'd hate to pay $500 for a $350 replacement.
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Jun 5, 2026 at 12:16 AM
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STEVE W.
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
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Those regulators are pretty robust as they are a simple straight line part. The regulator is also easy to change. The piece you see is the glass clamp, it is attached to the bottom of the glass and connects it to the regulator. It will be included on the new glass. It is the two items on the bottom in the glass image.
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Jun 5, 2026 at 4:49 AM
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SILVERBUG
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Thank you Steve! That makes sense.
Jun 5, 2026 at 4:57 AM
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