If your car window is going up slow when you try to use it, find out how to diagnose and fix this problem yourself. Take these steps and fix this problem before the window stops going up at all.
How to Fix a Car Window Going Up Slow
If your car has power windows, when you press the window switch power is
sent to the window motor. The window motor powers the window regulator, which
will move the window up and down. Moisture and debris can break down parts like
the weatherstripping, window motor or window regulator, and this can cause a
car window to go up slow.
Follow these steps to fix a car window going up slow
- Check the Weatherstripping
The rubber weatherstripping can break down over time. It may cause friction
and make it harder for the window regulator or window motor to work. Run your
finger along the weatherstripping at the top of the window frame and feel for
damage or debris. If it feels rough, clean out the seal with a cloth rag. Using
parts cleaner in this area can swell and damage it. Then relubricate it with a
specialty lubricant.
The weatherstripping along the window sill will barely touch up against the
window glass. If this seal is damaged, moisture and debris can get inside the
door and behind the door panel where it can damage the window regulator and
window motor.
More on how to diagnose weatherstripping
- Remove and Inspect the Window Regulator for Damage
Different window regulators for different cars, trucks and SUVs depending on
the model. It’s easiest to inspect the window regulator by removing it from the
door. To remove a window regulator, find steps for your year, make and model in
our how-to video library.
Check the channels for damage, and replace the window regulator if you find
damage like the one in this article’s video at 3:55. Check the areas of the
regulator that move and make sure they’re not excessively loose. Loose areas
could cause binding, which will strain the parts and cause problems like a
window going up slow.
If you find no damage on the window regulator, clean and re-lubricate it.
- Check the Window Motor
The window motor is an electrical component with mechanical components
inside like gears. Electrical current powers a motor inside. Over time, the
internal components can wear or damage enough to cause a car window to go up
slow.
More on how to tell if the problem is the window regulator or window motor
How-to Videos to Replace Your Own Car Parts
Learn how to replace parts on your car yourself with our step-by-step instructions from expert mechanics in our how-to videos.
