How do I know if my power window fuse is blown?

A blown power window fuse usually stops the associated window from moving. You can confirm this by inspecting the fuse, testing for voltage, and replacing it with a like-for-like fuse. If the fuse keeps blowing, there may be a short or another fault in the circuit that needs professional attention.

What symptoms indicate a blown fuse

Certain signs point to a fuse problem, though they can also be caused by a faulty switch or motor. Look for the following indicators to decide whether to check the fuse next.

• The window does not move when you press the window switch.


• The switch indicator light (if equipped) does not illuminate when activated.


• Other windows may continue to operate normally if they have separate fuses, or all windows may be affected if they share a common fuse or module.


• There is no motor sound or vibration when attempting to move the window—unlike a motor that is simply struggling or stalled due to an obstruction.


• You notice signs of overheating, a burnt odor, or visible damage near the door wiring harness, which can accompany an electrical fault.

In plain terms, if the window is stubbornly unresponsive and the fuse for that circuit is suspect, it’s reasonable to check the fuse as a next step.

How to verify and replace a blown fuse

To verify a blown fuse, you’ll need to locate the correct fuse, inspect it, test for continuity or voltage, and replace it with a like-for-like part. Use the car’s manual or fuse diagram to identify the correct slot.

Key checks you can perform at home

Before you touch anything, ensure the vehicle is off and the key is out of the ignition. Have replacement fuses of the same amperage ready, and avoid using a higher-amp fuse to bypass a fault.

• Locate the fuse panel and identify the window circuit fuse using the manual or diagram, which is typically in the driver’s door area, under the dashboard, or in the engine bay.


• Remove the suspected fuse with a fuse puller or small pliers and inspect it visually for a broken filament, charring, or discoloration.


• Test continuity with a multimeter (set to ohms) or a test light to confirm whether the fuse is open.


• Check for voltage at the fuse terminals with a voltmeter or test light while someone presses the window switch; if there is no voltage on the fuse input when the switch is activated, the issue may originate upstream (switch, wiring, or control module).


• Replace the fuse with a new one of the same amperage rating. Re-test the window to see if it operates normally.

If the new fuse blows again or the window remains inoperable, there is likely an underlying fault such as a short in the door wiring, a jammed window regulator, or a faulty switch that requires professional diagnosis.

What to do if the fuse is blown repeatedly

Repeated fuse blows signal an ongoing electrical problem. Addressing it promptly can prevent further damage or a potential fire risk. Here is how to proceed.

• Do not continue to run the circuit with a blown fuse; replace the fuse and test only once to confirm behavior.


• Inspect the door wiring harness for signs of wear, pinching, or exposed conductors, especially where the wires bend near the window regulator.


• Check the window motor and regulator for obstruction or mechanical binding, which can cause excessive current draw and fuse failure.


• If you’re not finding an obvious fault, have a professional perform a more in-depth electrical diagnostic, including testing the window switch, control module, and wiring harness for shorts or faults.

Bear in mind that some modern vehicles route the power window circuit through a central module; a failure there can present as a blown fuse in one channel but may involve more complex diagnosis.

When to seek professional help

Most power window fuse issues can be resolved with a straightforward fuse replacement and a basic check of the wiring. However, frequent fuse blows or ambiguous symptoms warrant expert attention.

Signals that you should involve a technician

• The fuse blows again after replacing it, despite inspecting for obvious shorts or obstructions.


• You cannot locate the correct fuse or you’re uncomfortable testing electrical circuits.


• There are signs of damaged wiring, including exposed copper, melted insulation, or a burning smell near the door wiring harness.


• Multiple windows show issues or the issue involves the central power window module rather than a single fuse.

Professional assessment can prevent further damage and ensure the window system is repaired to factory specifications.

Summary

A blown power window fuse typically renders the affected window inoperable, with other windows possibly unaffected depending on the fuse layout. Start by locating and inspecting the correct fuse, then test for continuity or voltage and replace with a like-for-like fuse. If the fuse continues to blow, or if you notice wiring damage or abnormal symptoms, seek professional diagnostics to rule out shorts, motor or regulator problems, or a faulty switch. Regular maintenance and careful testing can keep power windows operating safely and reliably.

Where is the fuse for the power windows located?

The power window fuse is typically located in a fuse box under the dashboard on the driver's side or under the hood, according to Glass Doctor and JustAnswer. You can find the exact location and the correct fuse number for your vehicle in the owner's manual or on the diagram on the fuse box cover itself.
 
This video shows how to locate the fuse box and the power window fuse in a car: 58sCarsNToysYouTube · Nov 25, 2020

• Locate the fuse box: Check the fuse box under the dashboard on the driver's side, near the steering wheel, or the main fuse box located under the hood. 
• Find the diagram: Consult your owner's manual or the diagram on the fuse box cover to identify the correct fuse for the power windows (it may be labeled "P/W" or "Power Window"). 
• Check the fuse: Once you have located the fuse, inspect it to see if the metal strip inside is broken or melted, which indicates it is blown. 
• Replace if necessary: If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage rating. 

Does each power window have its own fuse?

No, most vehicles do not have a separate fuse for each power window; instead, a single fuse or circuit breaker typically protects the entire power window system. If one window is not working while the others function correctly, the problem is more likely a faulty switch, motor, or wiring issue specific to that door, rather than a blown fuse. However, some newer vehicles may use individual fuses for each window. 
Common scenarios

• All windows stop working: If multiple windows fail at once, a blown main fuse is a very likely cause. 
• Only one window stops working: If only a single window is affected, the fuse is probably fine. The problem is most likely a failed switch, motor, or a broken wire in the door hinge area. 

What to do if a window isn't working
This video demonstrates how to check a car's fuse and identify a blown fuse: 56sCody the Car GuyYouTube · Jul 19, 2013

1. Consult your owner's manual: This is the best way to find out which fuse(s) control the power windows and where they are located. 
2. Check the main fuse: If all windows have stopped working, locate the power window fuse and check if it is blown. If it is, replace it with a new one of the same amperage. 
3. Investigate if only one window is affected: 
   • Listen for the motor when you press the switch to see if you can hear any noise. 
   • If the motor is silent, the issue is likely the switch, motor, or wiring. A good next step is to inspect the wiring harness that runs from the car body into the door, as wires can break from repeated opening and closing. 
4. Look for a reset procedure: Some cars have a reset procedure you can try, especially after a power interruption. This often involves holding the window switch in the "up" or "down" position for several seconds after the window reaches its end of travel. 

How can you tell if a window fuse is blown?

So let's see what we got. And as I suspected. It is blown. Um that's no good. So let's go and also for a window motor 7.5 amps is not enough.

How to tell if it's the window motor or switch?

To tell if a window switch or motor is bad, first check the switch's physical condition and listen for the motor when you press the switch. If you hear the motor running but the window doesn't move, the motor is likely bad. If you hear grinding or clicking noises, or if the window moves very slowly, it is often the motor or regulator. If only one window is affected and all other windows work, the issue is likely with that specific switch, motor, or regulator.
 
How to diagnose a bad switch 
This video demonstrates how to diagnose a bad window switch or motor by checking for power flow to the motor: 54sRockAuto Auto PartsYouTube · Apr 18, 2019

• Physical feel: A spongy, loose, or otherwise different feeling in the switch compared to the others can indicate a problem. 
• Master switch issues: If the other windows only work from the master switch, but not from their own door switches, the individual switches may be faulty. 
• Lack of power: If you press the switch and observe that your car's interior lights or dashboard indicators do not dim at all, it could mean the switch is not sending power to the motor. 
• The window moves: If you can confirm the window moves when using a different switch (like the master switch), the original window's switch is the likely culprit. 

How to diagnose a bad motor or regulator 
This video shows how to test if a window motor is working by bypassing the switch: 1mTop 5 Auto RepairsYouTube · Jun 6, 2023

• Motor noise: A grinding, clicking, or squealing noise coming from the door when you press the switch often indicates a problem with the motor or the window regulator, which is the mechanical part that lifts the glass. 
• Motor sound but no movement: If you hear the motor running (a humming sound) but the window doesn't move at all, the motor is likely bad. 
• Slow or jerky movement: A window that moves very slowly, jerks, or gets stuck halfway is often a sign of a struggling motor or a faulty regulator. 
• Burning smell: A burning smell coming from the door panel can indicate the motor is overheating and is on its way to failing. 

What to check first
You can watch this video to learn how to test a power window circuit: 58sJustin MillerYouTube · Mar 13, 2015

• Check the fuse: Before replacing any parts, it's a good idea to check the fuse for the power windows to make sure it hasn't blown. 
• Test all switches: Press the switch for the problem window and then test all other window switches. If other windows work correctly, the problem is isolated to that one window's switch, motor, or regulator.