What year did Chevy trucks get power windows?

Power windows first appeared on Chevrolet pickups in the mid-1960s as an optional feature, with broader availability across the line emerging through the 1970s. The exact year depended on model, trim, and market.

Across Chevrolet's pickup history, amenities like power windows followed a gradual path from basic, manual crank systems to more comfortable, power-operated controls. This article surveys when that transition began and how it varied by generation, plus how to confirm whether a particular truck has power windows.

Timeline: When power windows appeared on Chevy trucks

The following timeline outlines the general pattern observed in Chevrolet's light-duty pickups, noting that availability varied by trim level and year. The dates below reflect common practice in the U.S. market, with caveats for special editions and regional variations.

• Mid-1960s: Factory power windows began to appear as an option on higher-end trim levels of Chevrolet pickups, such as Deluxe or Custom, in some model years. Not universal across the line.


• Late 1960s to early 1970s: Power window options become more common on additional trim levels within the C/K family, especially on custom or luxury packages; some trucks are documented with this option in build sheets.


• 1970s to early 1980s: Power windows trend grows, with more Chevy pickups offering power windows as either an option or in higher trim packages; by the late 1970s, several groups included power windows in many markets.

In short, power windows were not standard on all Chevy trucks from the outset; they emerged as an option during the mid-1960s and gradually became more widely available through the 1970s.

How to verify power windows on a specific Chevy truck

To determine whether a particular Chevy truck has power windows, consult documentation and inspect the vehicle’s hardware. The steps below guide you through the verification process.

1. Locate and read the build sheet or window sticker (where available) to identify option codes related to power windows (often labeled as a "Power Window" group or a similar RPO code).


2. Check the data plate or glovebox manual for RPO (Regular Production Option) codes that indicate power equipment packages.


3. Inspect the door panels and switches: a power window system typically uses rocker-style or push-button switches on the door armrest, whereas manual windows use a crank handle.


4. Consult owner’s manuals or shop manuals for the year’s option codes and wiring diagrams to confirm compatibility.


5. If documentation is unclear, contact a Chevrolet truck specialist, GM heritage center, or a trusted restoration guide with specifics for the model year and trim level.

Cross-referencing these sources helps confirm whether a particular truck has power windows, and whether the feature was originally installed by the factory or added later as an aftermarket upgrade.

Summary

Chevrolet trucks began offering power windows as an option in the mid-1960s, with broader availability throughout the 1970s. The exact year depends on the model, trim, and market. For collectors and restorers, checking build sheets, option codes, and hardware is essential to verify whether a specific truck came with power windows from the factory.

What's the worst year for Chevy Silverado 1500?

The worst years for the Chevy Silverado 1500 are generally considered to be 2014, 2015, and 2017 due to high numbers of reported problems, with the 2014 model often cited as the worst overall due to widespread issues like AC failure, transmission problems, and electrical faults. Other problematic years include the 2007–2011 range, which had issues with the Active Fuel Management system, and 2019–2021 models that saw engine-related recalls.
 
This video discusses the worst years for Chevy Silverado 1500 models: 48sCar ExpertlyYouTube · Jun 4, 2025
Specific model years to avoid

• 2014: This model year stands out for a high volume of complaints and numerous recalls. Issues included the air conditioning system failing frequently, transmission problems (especially with the new 8-speed automatic), and electrical malfunctions like the infotainment screen going black or the engine stalling. 
• 2017: This year is frequently mentioned for significant transmission problems, including rough shifting and jerking, which led to a low reliability rating from some sources. 
• 2012–2013: These models from the second generation are also frequently listed as years to avoid, with owners reporting engine, transmission, and interior accessory problems. 
• 2007–2011: This early part of the GMT900 generation is known for issues related to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, such as oil consumption and lifter failure, which could lead to costly engine repairs. 
• 2019–2021: These models are flagged for issues with the Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) lifters and engine bearing problems that resulted in recalls. 

You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with Chevy Silverado 1500 pickup trucks: 59sEveryman DriverYouTube · Jan 13, 2020
Common problems by generation

• First Generation (2001–2006): Early models had issues like brake line rust, engine problems, and transmission issues. 
• Second Generation (2007–2013): The Active Fuel Management (AFM) system was a major source of trouble, leading to oil consumption and engine failure, particularly in the 2007–2011 period. 
• Third Generation (2014–2018): This generation is highlighted for widespread issues, especially in the early years like 2014, with a high volume of complaints related to the air conditioning, transmission, and electrical systems. 

When did Chevy start using power windows?

Chevrolet introduced the oddity of power front windows (only) in the 1954 model. Ford also introduced full four-door power windows in sedans in 1954. The full-sized 1955 Nash "Airflyte" models featured optional power windows.

What year did power windows come out?

Power windows first came out in 1940, with the first car to feature them being the Packard 180 series. They used a hydro-electric system to operate the windows at the press of a button.
 

• Year: 1940
• First car: Packard 180 series
• Technology: Hydro-electric system

What year did Chevy trucks have five windows?

Marketed as the Advanced Design trucks, Chevy placed an emphasis on cab comfort and safety. For the 1947 to 1954 models, stylists conceived the five-window cab, formally known as the Deluxe Cab, to eliminate the blind spots in the rear quarter panels of the cab.