What to do if your electric window wont go up?

If your electric car window won't roll up, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to diagnose and fix the issue. The problem could be caused by a variety of factors, from a faulty window motor to a wiring issue. By following a systematic approach, you can often get your window working again without the need for costly repairs.

Identify the Problem

The first step is to determine the root cause of the window not going up. Here are some common reasons why an electric window may not function properly:

• Faulty window motor: The electric motor that powers the window mechanism could be malfunctioning, preventing the window from moving up or down.


• Wiring issues: A break or short in the wiring that connects the window switch to the motor can disrupt the electrical signal and prevent the window from operating.


• Obstructions: Something could be blocking the window's path, causing it to get stuck or not move at all.


• Broken window regulator: The window regulator, which is the mechanism that guides the window as it moves, could be damaged or worn out, preventing the window from rolling up properly.

To identify the specific issue, you may need to do some basic troubleshooting, such as checking the window switch, inspecting the wiring, and observing the window's movement.

Troubleshoot the Issue

Once you've identified the potential problem, you can start troubleshooting to confirm the issue and determine the best course of action. Here are some steps you can take:

• Check the window switch: Ensure the window switch is functioning properly by testing it with a multimeter or by trying the switch in another window that is working correctly.


• Inspect the wiring: Examine the wiring that connects the window switch to the motor, looking for any signs of damage, such as fraying, loose connections, or corrosion.


• Observe the window's movement: Try manually moving the window up and down to see if there are any obstructions or if the window regulator is functioning correctly.


• Test the window motor: If the switch and wiring appear to be in good condition, the window motor may be the culprit. You can test the motor by connecting it directly to a power source to see if it's still operational.

Based on your findings, you can then determine the appropriate next steps, whether that's replacing a faulty component or seeking professional assistance.

Repair or Replace the Faulty Component

If you've identified the specific issue, you can proceed with the necessary repairs or replacements. Depending on the problem, this may involve:

• Replacing the window motor: If the motor is the culprit, you'll need to replace it with a new one that is compatible with your vehicle.


• Repairing or replacing the window regulator: If the regulator is damaged, you may be able to repair it or replace the entire assembly.


• Fixing wiring issues: If the wiring is the problem, you may be able to repair or replace the affected wires to restore the electrical connection.

In some cases, the issue may be more complex, and you may need to seek the assistance of a professional mechanic or auto electrician to properly diagnose and fix the problem.

Can you manually raise a power window?

Yes, you can manually raise a power window, but it requires some disassembly of the door panel. A quicker, though less reliable, temporary fix is to have someone hold the power button while you apply gentle upward pressure to the glass with your hands. The most thorough methods involve removing the door panel to either turn the window motor by hand, which may move the glass, or by securing the glass once it's lifted. 
Temporary fix: Helper + hand pressure 

1. Turn the ignition to the "on" position. 
2. Open the door with the faulty window. 
3. Have a helper press and hold the "up" button for that window. 
4. While the button is held, sandwich the window between your palms and apply gentle, steady upward pressure. 
5. Be careful not to get your fingers caught if the window moves suddenly. 

This video shows how to manually raise a stuck power window with the help of another person: 53sPete LedwidgeYouTube · Nov 12, 2018
More involved fix: Removing the door panel 

1. Remove the door panel: Carefully remove the interior door panel to access the window's inner workings, which include the motor and regulator. 
2. Disconnect the motor: Disconnect the motor from the regulator mechanism. 
3. Turn the motor by hand: If the regulator is intact, you may be able to turn the motor by hand using a tool like an Allen wrench or by turning the gears on the regulator itself to lift the window. 
4. Secure the glass: Once the window is up, you must secure it in place temporarily using tape, clamps, or wooden wedges to prevent it from falling again until you can fix the motor or regulator. 

This video demonstrates how to remove the door panel to access the power window motor and manually raise the window: 1mRobert CainYouTube · May 6, 2024

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

To fix an electric window that won't go up, first check for simple issues like the child safety lock and blown fuses. If those aren't the problem, try resetting the motor by holding the switch, or listen for the motor to determine if the switch or the motor itself is the issue. 
Quick checks and resets

• Check the child safety lock: Make sure the child safety lock isn't engaged, as this will prevent all other windows from operating. 
• Reset the window motor: With the ignition on, press and hold the window switch in the "down" position for a few seconds, then press and hold it in the "up" position for about ten seconds to recalibrate. 
• Check the fuses: Consult your owner's manual to find the fuse box and the fuse for the power windows. If a fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage. 
• Test the switch: If the window works from one switch but not another, the switch is likely faulty. If nothing happens at all when you press the switch, try replacing it. 

Further troubleshooting

• Listen to the motor: When you press the switch, listen for a faint click or no sound. If you hear a grinding or clunking noise, the motor might be bad or the window could be off its track. 
• Lubricate the tracks: If the window moves slowly and noisily at first, the tracks may need lubrication. Apply a silicone lubricant to the tracks to help the window slide more easily. 
• Inspect for obstructions: Check the window tracks for any debris or obstructions that could be blocking the window's movement. 
• Door slam method: Some suggest holding the switch down while you repeatedly slam the car door, which may jar the mechanism into working again temporarily. 

When to call a professional

• If the problem persists after trying these steps, there may be a more serious issue with the motor, regulator, or wiring.
• If you are not comfortable with disassembling the door panel or working with the electrical system, it is best to consult a professional technician. 

0:31When Your Car Window Won't Go Up #ShortsYouTubeHome RenoVision DIY · 4y 0:21Is my electric window motor dead or I need to replace whole mechanism ...RedditActual_Guest2165 · 8mo 0:17Why is my power window struggling to go up but not down? : r/AskMechanicsReddit88pontiacdream · 9mo 0:08window repair help, window won't go up or down but had power and ...RedditTop_Rain_3153 · 3y (function(){
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How do you roll up an electric car window that won't roll up?

To get an electric window up when stuck, try these methods: hold the window switch up and open/slam the door to reset the motor, use the "hold it up" trick to reset the one-touch feature, or, as a last resort for a temporary fix, manually push the glass up while someone else presses the switch, being very careful not to damage the window. If the window doesn't move or makes grinding noises, it may indicate a more serious problem that requires professional repair. 
Method 1: Reset the motor with the door
This video shows how to use the door slam trick to reset a power window: 58sHowdiniYouTube · Jan 31, 2008

1. Turn the ignition key to the "on" position. 
2. Press and hold the window switch in the "up" position. 
3. While still holding the switch, open the car door and then slam it shut. 
4. Repeat this a few times if necessary. This can sometimes jar the motor enough to get it to move. 

Method 2: Reset the one-touch feature 

1. Hold the window button in the "up" position for several seconds to see if it will go up.
2. If it doesn't work, try holding the button down for about 10 seconds, then hold it up for 5 to 10 seconds to reset the system.
3. Alternatively, try holding the switch up for two seconds, releasing for two seconds, and then holding it up again. 

Method 3: Manually push the window up
Caution: This method should be done carefully to avoid injury or damage. Do not use this if you hear grinding or see the glass is crooked. 

1. Turn the ignition key to the accessory position. 
2. With the door open, have a helper hold the window switch in the "up" position. 
3. While your helper holds the switch, place your palms on the window and apply steady pressure to slide it up. Be careful not to get your fingers caught if the window suddenly moves. 

When to seek professional help
If these quick fixes don't work, or if you hear grinding, the problem is likely more serious, such as a broken regulator or a faulty motor. At this point, it is best to consult a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue.

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

You can tell if a power window fuse is blown by a visual inspection or by testing it with a tool like a multimeter or test light. A blown fuse will have a broken or melted metal strip inside and will not show a reading on both sides when tested for continuity. If multiple windows aren't working, a single blown fuse is a likely culprit.
 
This video demonstrates how to check a window motor fuse: 34sCody the Car GuyYouTube · Jul 19, 2013
Visual inspection

• Locate the fuse box: Find the fuse box, which is usually under the dashboard or hood. The owner's manual will show its exact location and a diagram of the fuses. 
• Identify the power window fuse: The diagram will label the fuse for the power windows. If multiple windows aren't working, this is a good starting point. 
• Look for a broken or melted filament: Remove the fuse and inspect it. A good fuse has a continuous metal strip running through it. A blown fuse will have a broken, melted, or discolored (brown or black) metal strip, often with a visible break inside the clear plastic casing. 

Testing with tools

• Using a multimeter:
  • Set the multimeter to the ohms (Ωcap omegaΩ) setting to check for continuity. 
  • Touch the probes to the metal contacts on opposite ends of the fuse. 
  • If the fuse is good, the multimeter will show a reading close to zero ohms, indicating continuity. If it shows no reading or "OL," the fuse is blown. 
• Using a test light:
  • Turn the ignition on and ensure the power window switch is activated. 
  • Connect the test light's clip to a good ground source. 
  • Touch the test light's probe to the input side of the fuse. If the light turns on, there is power to the fuse. 
  • Move the probe to the output side. If the light turns on, the fuse is good. If it doesn't light up, the fuse is blown. 

This video explains how to check fuses using a test light: 55sBarbour's Auto HelpYouTube · Jul 16, 2019
Important considerations

• Replace with the correct amperage: When replacing a blown fuse, always use a new fuse with the exact same amperage rating as the original. Using a higher amperage fuse can be a fire hazard and cause damage to the electrical system. 
• Address the root cause: If a new fuse immediately blows again, there is a deeper problem in the circuit, such as a shorted wire, faulty motor, or switch. It's best to consult a mechanic to diagnose and fix the underlying issue.