If you have a window in your car that’s stuck and won’t move up or down, there are three parts that are common causes. Find out how to fix a stuck car window by checking these parts with the tips in this article and video from our expert mechanics.
How to Fix a Stuck Car Window Yourself
3 Parts That Commonly Cause a Stuck Car Window
1. Window Switch
Causes of a Window Switch Causing a Stuck Car Window
- Car is not turned on
- Lock function on window switch is on
- Moisture
- Loose electrical connector
- Broken window switch
How to Fix a Broken Window Switch
General steps to test a broken window switch for a stuck car window
- Have the Car Running
It’s best to test the window switch with the engine running. This will eliminate the possibility of a dead battery causing a stuck window in your car.
- Check the Window Lock Function
If the window lock function is on, the window switch won’t move a stuck window.
- Check the Window Switch for Stains
Staining from liquids like water or coffee could be a sign of damage. If the window was stuck open, rain or snow could also have landed on and damaged the switch.
- Use the Switch and Listen for the Window Motor
If you hear a noise like the window motor working while you’re pressing the switch down but don’t hear a sound when pressing it up, you might have a bad window switch.
- Test the Other Windows
See if the other windows are working from the master switch. If the master switch fails to move any of your windows, there may be a problem with the switch receiving power.
- Remove the Window Switch
On some vehicles, you can pull up and remove the window switch with a trim tool without needing to take off the door panel.
Check the backside of the switch for signs of water damage. Signs of water marks means moisture has been in the switch.
Wiggle the electrical connectors to confirm they’re secure. A loose connection will cause problems with moving the window.
More on how to diagnose and test a window switch
2. Window Regulator
Causes of a Window Regulator Causing a Stuck Car Window
- Damaged window regulator cable, spring, pulleys, or channels
How to Fix a Broken Window Regulator
If you hear a clunk noise similar to the one featured in this article’s video at 2:12, that means an issue with the window regulator is causing a stuck window. You may hear the window motor working with a crunching sound and you may be able to move the window glass a little by hand.
Check the window regulator for damage. You’ll need to remove the door panel. Check the pulleys, channels, and cables for damage. Make sure the spring is tight and not loose.
Video: How to Replace Window Regulators on Any Vehicle
Expert tips for installing a window regulator
3. Window Motor
Causes of a Window Motor Causing a Stuck Car Window
- Loose electrical connection
- Broken or worn window motor
How to Fix a Broken Window Motor
The window may move slowly if there’s a problem with the power window motor. It also may not move at all and stay stuck. You can test the window motor with a test light to tell if the problem is with the switch or the motor.
More on how to tell if the motor or the switch is the problem
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