Why wont my car window raise?

The most common reasons are a blown fuse, a faulty window motor or regulator, or a stuck switch. Weather conditions or ice can also keep a window from moving. A diagnostic check can confirm the exact cause.

Car windows fail for a mix of electrical, mechanical, and environmental factors. This guide walks you through the main suspects, how to test them safely, and when to seek professional help.

Common causes of a window that won’t rise

The trouble can stem from electrical components, mechanical wear, or external conditions. The items below are the usual culprits you’ll want to consider first.

Electrical problems

Electrical faults prevent power from reaching the motor or switch, stopping the raise function.

• Blown fuse for the power windows


• Faulty window switch or dead spot in the switch


• Defective window motor or relay


• Damaged wiring harness in the door, or corroded connectors

Conclusion: Electrical faults stop the window from getting power or from activating. Start by checking fuses and testing the switch and known-good controls.

Mechanical problems

Mechanical wear or misalignment physically prevents movement of the glass.

• Failed window regulator or broken cable


• Glass off the track or damaged mounting


• Damaged window jamb or frame causing binding

Conclusion: If the motor runs but the window doesn’t move, the regulator or track is the likely culprit, and repair may involve realignment or component replacement.

Environmental and user-related factors

Weather or user-related issues can temporarily block operation or exacerbate wear.

• Ice, snow, or debris in the track


• Anti-pinch safety feature triggering due to obstruction


• Lockout from child safety switch or master window switch


• Low battery or voltage drop affecting power windows

Conclusion: Clearing obstructions, warming the area, or addressing battery health can restore function in some cases.

Diagnostic steps you can take at home

Begin with quick checks that don’t require special tools. These steps help determine whether the problem is electrical or mechanical before you spend on parts or a service call.

• Check the fuse box for the correct window fuse and inspect it; replace if blown


• Operate the window using the door switch and, if available, the master switch; listen for motor activity


• Test the same window from another door’s switch to see if the issue is isolated


• Inspect the door panel for loose connectors, damaged wiring, or corrosion


• If accessible, check the window track for obstructions and confirm the glass is properly aligned

Conclusion: If the motor hums but the glass stays still, the regulator or track is a likely fault; if there is no response at all, electrical components such as fuse, switch, or wiring are the suspects.

What to do next: repair or professional help

Some issues can be resolved with basic maintenance, but others require specialized tools or replacement parts. Consider these guidelines when deciding how to proceed.

• Window motor or regulator failure usually requires replacement of one or both components


• Damaged tracks or misaligned glass may need realignment or replacement of the glass pane


• Door harness damage or complex wiring faults typically require a trained technician


• Persistent electrical faults after basic checks often warrant diagnostic testing with a multimeter or a vehicle scan

Conclusion: The cost and time depend on the root cause, vehicle model, and whether the window is safe to operate. A professional diagnosis ensures correct repair and safety compliance.

Prevention and maintenance tips

Regular care can reduce the likelihood of future window problems and keep the mechanism operating smoothly.

• Keep tracks clean and lightly lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant


• Avoid forcing the window; if it stalls, stop and diagnose rather than applying more pressure


• Address ice buildup promptly in cold weather to prevent binding and motor strain


• Check the vehicle’s battery and electrical system; weak voltage can affect windows

Conclusion: Routine maintenance and prompt attention to odd sounds or slow movement can extend the life of window components and reduce repair costs.

Summary

Windows that won’t raise are usually due to electrical issues (fuse, switch, or motor), mechanical problems (regulator or track), or environmental factors (ice, debris, or obstruction). Begin with quick fuse and switch checks, listen for motor activity, and inspect the window mechanism and track. If these basic checks don’t reveal the fault, seek a professional diagnosis to avoid further damage. With proper maintenance, most issues are fixable without major repairs.

Note: Vehicle make, model, and year influence the exact cause and repair path. Always consult the owner’s manual and a qualified technician for complex repairs.

How much does it cost to fix a car window that won't go up or down?

A standard power window repair at a general automotive shop can cost between $400 – $600 depending on the vehicle. Most shops will opt to install a new window regulator and motor assembly even if the motor is fine. Why is that?

How do you get a power window up when stuck down?

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.

What causes a power window to not work?

One of the most common reasons for power window failure is a faulty window regulator. The window regulator is responsible for controlling the up-and-down movement of the window glass. Over time, the regulator's internal components can wear out, leading to issues such as the window getting stuck or not moving at all.

How do I fix my car window that won't go up?

To fix a car window that won't go up, first try a few simple checks like the child safety lock and resetting the motor. If those don't work, you may need to manually push the window up, gently tap the motor, or lubricate the tracks. If the problem persists, a blown fuse, bad switch, or faulty motor/regulator are likely causes that may require professional repair. 
This video demonstrates how to manually push the window up and lubricate the tracks: 59s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Aug 27, 2025
Simple fixes

• Check the child safety lock: Make sure the child safety lock for the rear windows isn't engaged. 
• Reset the window motor: Hold the window switch in the "up" position for about 10 seconds, then hold it in the "down" position for another 10 seconds. This can reset the motor's position memory. 
• Wait for the motor to cool down: If the window was used recently, the motor's thermal protection may have tripped. Wait about 30 seconds to see if it resets itself. 
• Test the switch: Have someone else try to operate the window from the driver's side switch. If it works, the switch on the passenger's side may be faulty. 

Manual and temporary fixes
This video demonstrates how to temporarily tape the window in place: 58s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · May 3, 2019

• Manually push the window: With the switch held up, use your palms on either side of the glass to gently help push it up. Be careful not to pinch your fingers. 
• Tap the motor: While someone holds the switch in the "up" position, gently tap the area where the motor is located at the bottom of the door panel with your fist or a blunt object. This can sometimes dislodge a stuck motor. This is a temporary fix. 
• Lubricate the tracks: If the window moves slowly, it could be a lack of lubrication. Spray a silicone-based lubricant into the window tracks from the top. Then, cycle the window up and down to work the lubricant in. 
• Use duct tape: If the window is stuck down, you can place duct tape on the top edge of the glass and pull it up to the closed position. It's best to pull up from the inside of the glass. 

When to seek professional help
This video shows what a faulty window motor looks like: 53s1ROADYouTube · Apr 9, 2021

• Check fuses: Consult your owner's manual to locate the fuse for the power windows and check if it has blown. Replace it if necessary. 
• Inspect the wiring and switch: If the simple fixes don't work, the issue could be a faulty switch, wiring, or the motor itself. A professional can test the power to the motor and switch to diagnose the problem accurately. 
• Replace the motor or regulator: In many cases, the motor and/or the window regulator (the mechanism that moves the window) need to be replaced. This is a more involved repair that may require a professional.