Where is the fuse for the power windows located?

The power window fuse is typically inside the vehicle’s interior fuse box, usually on the driver’s side under the dash or in the glove box, and it is usually labeled PW or Power Window with a 15–20 amp rating.

Because fuse locations vary by make, model, and year, the exact spot can differ. If you don’t see a PW label in the usual spots, check the owner’s manual or the diagram on the inside of the fuse box cover, and inspect all related fuses in any interior panels that house electrical fuses.

Common interior fuse box locations

Most drivers should start by inspecting the interior fuse boxes where power to the windows is commonly routed. The following spots cover the majority of vehicles in use today.

• Driver's-side under-dash fuse box (often located in the kick panel near the left footwell and hood release).


• Glove box fuse panel (some models place fuses here for convenience).


• Passenger-side dash panel or center console fuse box (less common, but possible on some designs).


• Under-hood fuse/relay center (rare; occasionally used for separate power-window circuits in certain trucks).

Identifying the exact fuse requires checking the diagram printed on the fuse box cover or in the owner's manual, and looking for labels such as PW, Power Window, Window Lift, or a window icon.

How to verify and replace the fuse

Once you’ve located the suspected fuse, confirm it is the correct one and inspect its condition before replacing. Here are the typical steps car owners follow.

• Turn off the vehicle and remove the key before touching fuses.


• Remove the fuse with a fuse puller or a small pair of pliers and inspect the metal strip inside; a blown fuse will usually show a broken or dull strip.


• Replace the blown fuse with one of the same amperage rating (e.g., 15A or 20A) as indicated by the diagram; do not use a higher-rated fuse as a substitute.


• Re-seat the fuse firmly and test the power windows to verify operation.


• If the new fuse blows again, there may be a short, a faulty window switch, or a failing window motor—consider professional inspection.

Note: Avoid bypassing fuses or using makeshift solutions. The fuse protects the electrical circuit from damage and is an essential safety feature.

What to do if you still can’t locate or fix the issue

If you cannot find a PW-labeled fuse or the fuse inspection does not resolve the problem, consult the vehicle’s official wiring diagram or a service manual for your exact year, make, and model. Online OEM resources, dealership service departments, or qualified automotive electricians can provide model-specific guidance and help diagnose underlying issues such as a faulty switch, wiring fault, or window motor failure.

Summary

In most cars, the power window fuse lives in an interior fuse box—usually the driver’s side under the dash or in the glove box—and is labeled PW or Power Window with a typical rating of 15–20 amps. If you can’t locate it, check the fuse box cover diagram or the owner’s manual, and inspect all likely interior fuse panels. Replace a blown fuse with the same amperage, and seek professional help if the fuse continues to blow or if the window still doesn’t operate after a correct replacement.

How to fix a power window that is not working at all?

To fix a non-working power window, first check and replace a blown fuse, then test the window switch for power, and inspect the window motor and regulator for damage or grinding noises. If the switch isn't getting power, check for broken or loose wiring in the door hinge area. For a complete loss of function, try resetting the motor, and if that fails, investigate the electrical and mechanical components of the system.
 
This video demonstrates how to diagnose a non-working power window by checking for power at the motor: 53s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jul 26, 2023
1. Check electrical components 

• Inspect the fuse: Locate the fuse box (check your owner's manual for location) and look for a blown fuse for the power windows. Replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage. If the new fuse blows again, there may be an electrical short or a mechanical issue causing the motor to draw too much power. 
• Test the switch: Try operating the window from both the driver's master switch and the individual door switch. If neither works, the problem could be the switch itself or the wiring to it. 
• Check the wiring: Inspect the wiring harness that connects the door to the car's body, especially near the hinge. Wires can break due to repeated opening and closing. Look for broken or frayed wires and repair any you find. 
• Check for power at the motor: After removing the door panel, use a multimeter to check for voltage at the window motor's electrical connector while a helper presses the switch. If you have power at the motor but it doesn't run, the motor is likely faulty. 

2. Check mechanical components 

• Listen for the motor: Press the window switch and listen closely. If you hear a clicking or whirring sound but the window doesn't move, the window regulator may be damaged. 
• Check the tracks and regulator: Visually inspect the window tracks for any debris, dirt, or obstructions that could be causing the window to bind. If you hear grinding noises, the regulator is likely damaged. 
• Lubricate the tracks: Spray a silicone-based lubricant into the window tracks to help the window slide more freely. 
• Manually move the window: Gently try to move the window by hand while pressing the switch. If you feel resistance or it moves with some effort, the motor or regulator is likely the issue. 

You can also watch this video to learn how to manually lift a window after the motor is disconnected: 48s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · May 3, 2019
3. Reset the motor

• Attempt a reset: Some power window problems can be fixed by "relearning" the motor's position.
  1. Press and hold the switch for the window in the "up" position for about ten seconds.
  2. Immediately release it, then press and hold the switch in the "down" position for another ten seconds. 

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. 

How do I reset my power window?

And hold it down hard for 10 seconds or. So. So even when the windows open keep holding it down. And down and down. Now put it up hard and hold it again for 10 seconds. Roughly 5 to 10 seconds.

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.