Why wont my windows roll up in my Dodge Journey?
In many Dodge Journeys, a non-responsive power window usually comes down to a blown fuse, a faulty window motor or regulator, or a bad driver’s master switch. Start with the simplest checks (fuses and switches) before moving to the more involved mechanical parts. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any step, consider professional service.
The Dodge Journey, produced from 2009 through 2019, relies on a compact power-window system that can fail for electrical or mechanical reasons. When the up-up action stops working, it’s typically an issue in one of a few areas: the electrical supply (fuses/relays), the switch that controls the window, the window motor or the regulator mechanism, or the wiring within the door itself. This article outlines the common culprits and practical steps to diagnose and fix the problem.
Common causes of a non-working power window
The following list highlights the most frequent culprits. If any of these apply to your Journey, you’ll have a good starting point for repairs.
- Blown power window fuse or faulty relay in the interior fuse box (and sometimes the under-hood box). If the fuse is blown, all power windows may fail, or the affected circuit may cut out entirely.
- Faulty window motor or regulator in the door. A humming motor with no glass movement, or glass that moves slowly or stalls, typically points to a motor or regulator failure.
- Faulty driver’s door master switch (or a problem with the passenger-side switch). If all windows fail when using the driver’s switch but individual switches work, the master switch is a likely culprit.
- Damaged wiring or a failing door harness inside the door. Wires that rub through over time can lose power or ground to the window motor/switch, causing intermittent or total failure.
- Obstruction, misalignment, or a faulty anti-pinch safety feature. Debris in the track, a bent regulator, or a misaligned glass can trigger the system to halt movement for safety.
Addressing these causes typically resolves most cases where a Dodge Journey’s windows won’t roll up. If you’ve eliminated the electrical causes and there’s still no movement, the problem is more likely mechanical and may require replacement parts.
Step-by-step troubleshooting you can perform
Before you dive into repairs, here’s a practical, safety-conscious approach to identify the fault. This list explains the diagnostic path and what to look for as you go.
- Check the fuses and relays related to power windows in the interior fuse box (and, if applicable, under the hood). Replace any blown fuses and test the system again.
- Test all window switches. Try the driver’s master switch and the passenger-side switches. Note whether any window responds differently when using the various switches.
- Listen for sounds when you operate the window. A clicking or humming noise can indicate a motor or regulator issue; absence of sound with failure to move points toward a motor/relay problem or a wiring fault.
- Inspect the door wiring harness as you can safely access it. Look for obvious signs of wear, fraying, or disconnected plugs between the door and the body. Damaged harnesses can cut power to the window system.
- Check for obstructions or track binding. Remove any visible debris from the window track and ensure the glass moves freely in the channel. Misalignment or binding often halts operation.
- Test voltage at the switch and at the motor when the switch is pressed (if you have the tools). This can confirm whether power is reaching the motor and whether the switch is functioning properly.
After completing these steps, you should have a clearer idea of whether the issue is electrical (fuse, relay, switch, wiring) or mechanical (motor, regulator, track). If the problem persists, you may be dealing with a failed motor or regulator, which typically requires replacement by a qualified technician.
When to seek professional help
Consider taking your Journey to a shop if:
- The fuse or relay checks out, but no window movement occurs regardless of switch use.
- You hear unusual grinding, buzzing, or smell burning near the door when attempting to operate the window.
- There is visible damage to the door harness or wiring, or you cannot safely access the inside of the door to diagnose further.
- The window remains stuck in an unsafe position (e.g., jammed halfway) and cannot be fully raised or lowered.
A dealership or qualified mechanic can accurately diagnose whether the problem is a faulty motor, a broken regulator, or a door-harness failure, and they can perform the precise replacement with proper alignment and safety checks. If your vehicle is under warranty or covered by a service campaign, they can also determine if there’s a factory bulletin or recall related to your issue.
Summary
For a Dodge Journey with a non-operational power window, start with the basics: check fuses and relays, then the driver’s master switch, and inspect the door wiring harness for damage. If a window makes noise but doesn’t move, the motor or regulator is often the culprit. Obstructions in the track and misalignment can also stop operation. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s wise to seek professional help to avoid further damage and ensure proper safety features are functioning.
By following these steps, you can diagnose the most common causes and determine whether a DIY fix is feasible or if professional service is warranted. A functional window improves comfort, safety, and convenience in your Dodge Journey.
