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Why wont my automatic window go back up?

There are several common causes for a power window that won’t rise, typically starting with simple electrical checks and progressing to mechanical or software issues. Start with basic fuses and switches, then inspect for obstructions or wear in the window mechanism, and consider reinitializing any auto-up function if your car supports it.


Understanding the problem


The question involves a window that refuses to move upward on an automatic (power) system. This can be caused by electrical faults, mechanical failures, or a need to reset the auto function. Diagnosing the issue often starts with quick, safe at-home checks and may move toward professional inspection if the problem persists.


Common causes at a glance


Below is a concise list of frequent culprits, arranged from easier-to-check to more involved problems. Use these as a starting point to narrow down the source of the fault.



  • Blown fuse or faulty relay in the window circuit


  • Damaged or burnt-out window motor

  • Worn or broken window regulator or gear

  • Obstruction or debris in the window track or guides

  • Track misalignment or binding from door panel wear or damage

  • Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring/connectors at the door harness

  • Auto up/down reset not learned or reprogrammed after battery disconnect


Concluding: Start with the electrical basics (fuse, switch, wiring) and move toward mechanical wear or software reprogramming if those checks don’t solve the issue.


Electrical checks you can perform safely


Electrical symptoms often reveal the fault early. These checks help determine whether the problem is in the power supply or the control switch.



  • Check the fuse corresponding to the power window circuit in your vehicle’s fuse box and replace it if it’s blown.

  • Test the operation of other windows from the same master switch to see if the problem is isolated to one window or affects all windows from the panel.

  • Look for a depressed window lock switch and ensure it isn’t preventing movement from the driver’s controls.

  • Listen for motor or gear noise when you press the up button. A quiet window may indicate the motor or regulator isn’t receiving power or is mechanically stuck; a humming sound may point to a seized motor or binding regulator.

  • Inspect the door harness and connectors for loose pins, corrosion, or damaged insulation that could interrupt power to the window motor or switch.


Concluding: If electrical checks show a fault (fuse blown, no power to the switch, or wiring issues), address those components before delving into mechanical inspections.


Mechanical and wear-related causes


When power and electronics check out, the failure often lies with the window mechanism itself or its guidance system.



  • Window regulator damage or a stripped gear that prevents the glass from moving up

  • Worn or failing window motor that can’t generate sufficient torque

  • Obstruction in the track or guides, caused by dirt, debris, or damaged weatherstripping

  • Misalignment or binding of the window within the door frame

  • Damaged or bent window glass frame causing friction against the seal or guide


Concluding: If the mechanism is mechanically compromised, professional replacement or repair of the regulator, motor, or guides is typically required.


Resetting auto up/down windows (where applicable)


Many modern vehicles with one-touch auto windows require a reset procedure after certain events (battery disconnect, replacement of a fuse, or a module update). Procedures vary by make and model, so consult your owner’s manual for model-specific steps. A common, non-model-specific approach is described here as a general guide:



  • Fully lower the window using the switch, then raise it completely and hold the switch in the up position for 1–2 seconds after it reaches the top to relearn the auto-up function.

  • If your car uses a one-touch auto function, you may need to repeat the process a few times or perform it with the ignition in a specific position (consult your manual).

  • After reinitializing, test the one-touch feature by pressing and releasing the switch to see if the window stops automatically at the top.


Concluding: Reset procedures differ by vehicle; incorrect steps won’t harm the system but may fail to restore auto-up behavior. If in doubt, reference the owner’s manual or contact a dealer.


When to seek professional help


If basic checks don’t resolve the issue, or you’re uncomfortable performing electrical inspections or disassembly, it’s wise to seek professional diagnosis and repair. A qualified technician can verify wiring continuity, test the motor and regulator with specialized tools, and identify hidden issues such as ECU or control module faults.



  • If you hear nothing when pressing the up button and fuses are intact, the motor or regulator may be defective.

  • If the motor runs but the glass doesn’t move, the regulator or track could be damaged or misaligned.

  • Persistent issues after a reset or if other door windows are unaffected, suggesting a localized door wiring or switch problem.


Concluding: Timely professional service can prevent further damage, especially if the window remains stuck in a partially closed or open position, which can cause water entry or door wiring stress.


Summary


Power windows failing to go up can stem from electrical faults, mechanical wear, or the need to reset auto features. Start with simple checks: fuses, master switch, and door wiring, then inspect for obstructions or regulator/motor wear. If the problem persists, consider a reset procedure for auto windows and, if needed, seek professional help to accurately diagnose and repair the regulator, motor, or wiring. Regular maintenance and careful observation of how the window behaves can help prevent future failures.

Why did my automatic windows stop working?


One of the most frequent reasons for power window failure lies in the car's electrical system. Since power windows operate through a complex network of wires, fuses, and switches, any disruption in this system can render the windows non-functional.



How to push up a stuck automatic window?


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 to fix an automatic window that won't go up?


Help! My Car Window Won't Go Up!

  1. Check the window switch for functionality.
  2. Inspect the fuse box for blown fuses.
  3. Examine the window motor and regulator.
  4. Test the wiring for any faults.
  5. Consider professional repair if issues persist.



How to reset auto up window?


All right so that was about 10 seconds. Let's try auto. Down. Works try auto up yep and now it. Works.


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.