Loading

What causes one power windows to stop working?

If one of your car's power windows suddenly stops working, there could be a few potential causes. The most common reasons include a faulty window motor, a problem with the window regulator, or an issue with the window switch or wiring. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for properly diagnosing and fixing the problem.


Faulty Window Motor


The window motor is responsible for raising and lowering the window glass. If the motor fails, the window will no longer be able to move. This can happen due to wear and tear over time, or if the motor becomes overloaded and burns out. A faulty window motor is one of the most common reasons for a single power window to stop working.


Problematic Window Regulator


The window regulator is the mechanism that physically moves the window glass up and down. If the regulator becomes worn, bent, or broken, it can prevent the window from operating properly. A malfunctioning window regulator can also cause a single power window to stop working.


Window Switch or Wiring Issues


The window switch, which is used to control the window's movement, can also be the source of the problem. If the switch fails or there is an issue with the wiring connecting the switch to the window motor, it will prevent the window from functioning. Electrical problems in the window switch or wiring can lead to a single power window not working.


Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue



  • Start by checking the window switch to ensure it is receiving power and functioning correctly.

  • If the switch appears to be working, the next step is to test the window motor and regulator for any issues.

  • You may need to remove the door panel to access and inspect these components.

  • If the motor or regulator is faulty, they will need to be repaired or replaced.

  • In some cases, the issue may be with the wiring, which will require troubleshooting and potentially rewiring the affected circuit.


Diagnosing and repairing a single non-functioning power window can be a straightforward process, but it's important to identify the root cause to ensure the problem is properly addressed. If you're unsure about the repair, it's best to consult a professional mechanic for assistance.

How to fix an electric window that won't go up?


First, find the switch for the malfunctioning window. Then, press and hold the switch in the 'up' position for about ten seconds. After releasing it, immediately press and hold the switch in the 'down' position for another ten seconds. This recalibrates the window motor and resets its position memory.



Why would only one power window not work?


If only one window stops working, the problem could be a bad relay, fuse issue, bad motor, or the power window switch has failed. The most common reason for one window to stop working is the switch, so this should be looked at by a professional mechanic to have your power window switch replaced.



How do I know if my window switch or motor is bad?


You can tell if the window switch is the problem if you hear the power window motor run, but the window glass doesn't move. You can press the switch in the other direction to confirm this problem. If the window moves, the switch might be to blame for the window failure.



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


If the fuse is blown, pushing a window button will do nothing at all: The motor won't groan and the glass won't quiver. If the fuse is good and you can hear the motor, or the glass acts like it wants to move, then you've got some sort of mechanical problem.



Why is one of my electric car windows not working?


Blown Fuse or Circuit Issue
Electric windows rely on your vehicle's electrical system, which means a blown fuse or a problem in the wiring can stop them from working entirely. This should be one of the first things you check if your window suddenly stops functioning as it should.



Why are the windows on one side of my car not working?


One of the most frequent culprits behind a malfunctioning car window is an electrical problem. Faulty wiring, blown fuses, or a malfunctioning window switch can prevent power from reaching the window motor, rendering it unable to operate.



How do I reset my electric windows in my car?


Down. And hold the button down for five seconds. And then pull it all the way up. And once it's all the way up hold the button for five seconds and that reprograms. It hope that helps.



How do I know if my window motor or regulator is going out?


How do you know if it's the window regulator or the motor? If the window glass is going up crooked, sags into the door when it's not being used, or it has fallen, it's a window regulator issue. If it's an issue of movement, then the window motor is the usual suspect.



Does each power window have its own fuse?


With some arrangements a single fuse in the main supply line is used to protect the complete window system so a failure here affects all the windows. Other cars have individual fuses for each window motor so failure will only affect the one window.



How do you reset a window regulator?


Down. And hold the button down for five seconds. And then pull it all the way up. And once it's all the way up hold the button for five seconds and that reprograms. It hope that helps.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.