Why would only one power window not work?

Typically, a single power window that won’t operate points to a problem in that door’s circuit—such as a blown fuse, a faulty switch, a bad motor or regulator, or damaged wiring—rather than a fault in the entire power window system.

When a single window fails, the underlying cause can vary by car type and symptoms. In many cases, wear and tear on the door’s mechanism, corrosion or damage in the wiring harness that runs through the door, or a defective switch are the most likely culprits. Diagnosing the issue usually involves checking power supply and control inputs before digging into the motor or track.

Common causes of a single non-working power window

The most frequent culprits fall into electrical supply, control input, mechanical action, and wiring. The following list outlines typical possibilities.

• Blown fuse or faulty power circuit specific to that window (some cars have per-window fuses; others share a circuit). If the fuse is blown, the window may stop working while others still operate, or in some cases all windows may be affected.


• Faulty door/window switch or master switch. A bad switch in the door panel or a malfunctioning master switch can prevent voltage from reaching the window motor.


• Window motor or regulator failure. A worn or burnt motor, or a failing or bent window regulator, can prevent the glass from moving even when power is supplied.


• Damaged wiring or door harness/loose connectors. The flexible wiring as it passes through the door jamb can wear, fray, or become disconnected, interrupting the circuit.


• Mechanical obstruction or misalignment. A jammed track, misaligned glass, or a faulty regulator can cause the motor to stall without moving the window.

In most cases, fixing a single-window problem involves replacing the faulty switch, repairing or replacing the motor or regulator, or repairing damaged wiring or connectors. If the fuse or circuit is the issue, replacement or a professional repair will usually restore function.

How to diagnose and fix

To systematically identify the culprit, start with power and control checks before inspecting the mechanical side of the door.

• Check the fuse(s) for the power window circuit. Locate the fuse box, inspect the relevant fuse, and replace it if it’s blown. If the fuse blows again, there may be a short or a stuck motor that needs further inspection.


• Test the door switch and the master switch. Use both switches to operate the window; if one works and the other doesn’t, the faulty switch is the likely cause.


• Verify voltage at the motor and switches. With the switch pressed, measure whether voltage reaches the window motor. If voltage is present at the switch but not at the motor, the wiring or connector between them is likely damaged.


• Inspect the door wiring harness and connectors. Look for cracked insulation, crushed wires, or loose connectors inside the door panel. Reconnect any loose plugs and repair or replace damaged wiring as needed.


• Assess the motor and regulator. If you hear a faint hum from the motor but the glass doesn’t move, the motor or regulator is likely stuck or worn and may need replacement.


• Check for obstructions or misalignment. Look for debris in the track, a misaligned glass, or a binding regulator that prevents smooth operation.

Diagnosing a stubborn window can be time-consuming and may require tools like a multimeter. If you’re not comfortable performing electrical tests or removing door panels, professional diagnosis is recommended to prevent further damage.

When to seek professional help

If you notice signs of burning plastic, melted connectors, or a persistent short that trips fuses, or if the window remains dead after checking fuses, switches, and obvious wiring, consult a certified automotive technician or an electrician. Complex electrical issues or motor/regulator replacements are best handled with professional equipment and expertise.

Summary

A single non-working power window is usually caused by an issue localized to that door—fuse, switch, motor/regulator, or wiring—rather than a fault in the entire system. Start with power and control checks, then inspect the mechanical path and connectors. If basic troubleshooting doesn’t restore function, professional diagnostic and repair are advised to prevent further damage and ensure safe operation.

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. 

Why would one power window stop working?

It could be a short or related wiring issue that causes a power window to stop working completely. Or it might be rain, corrosion, or rodents severing or exposing the wires enough to ground them out when the door closes.

How do I know if my window switch or motor is bad?

You can tell if your window switch or motor is bad by listening for noises, checking the window's movement, and observing the switch's behavior. A bad switch might be indicated if the motor runs but the window doesn't move, or if the switch is unresponsive. A bad motor is often suggested by grinding, whining, or clicking noises from the door, or a sluggish and slow-moving window. 
How to diagnose a bad window switch

• Motor runs, but the window doesn't move: If you press the switch and hear the motor whirring but the window glass stays put, the problem is likely the switch or the regulator, not the motor. 
• Intermittent function: The window only works sometimes, or requires multiple presses to operate, which can point to a faulty switch. 
• Unresponsive switch: The switch doesn't feel like it's clicking properly, or pressing it does nothing at all. 
• Control issues: If you can only control a window from the master switch on the driver's door, but the other door's individual switch doesn't work, the problem is likely the individual switch. 

How to diagnose a bad window motor

• Unusual noises: Listen for grinding, whining, or squeaking sounds coming from inside the door when the window is trying to move. A clicking sound from the motor itself without movement can also point to a failing motor. 
• Sluggish or stuck movement: The window moves noticeably slower than usual, or gets stuck halfway. 
• Total loss of movement: The window is completely stuck and won't move in either direction, even though you don't hear any motor sound. 
• Burning smell: A burning smell from the door panel can indicate that the motor has overheated and is failing. 

How to differentiate between a switch and a motor

• Listen for the motor: Turn the key to the "on" position and press the window switch. Listen carefully for any sound from the door. 
• Motor sound, no movement: If you hear the motor running but the window doesn't move, the problem is likely a faulty switch or a broken regulator. 
• No motor sound: If you don't hear the motor at all, the problem could be the switch, a blown fuse, or a problem with the motor itself. 
• Light dimming test (for some systems): Press the switch. If an interior light (like the dome or map light) dims, it means the motor is drawing power, indicating it's trying to work and the issue is likely the motor or regulator. If the light does not dim, the motor is not receiving power, suggesting a faulty switch or a fuse problem. 

Why is my car window not working on one side?

A car window that doesn't work on one side is likely caused by a blown fuse, a bad window switch, a faulty window motor, or a wiring issue like a broken wire. You can troubleshoot by checking the fuse, testing the switch and motor, and inspecting the wiring harness for damage. 
This video shows how to test a car window switch and motor: 56sBackyard ChevyYouTube · Oct 3, 2020
1. Check the basics

• Child lock: Make sure the child safety lock is not engaged, which would disable the power window for a specific door. 
• Listen for the motor: When you press the switch, listen for any sounds like humming or grinding. A humming or grinding noise can indicate a bad motor or a window that's off its track, while no sound at all might point to a problem with the switch or fuse. 

2. Test the electrical components 

• Inspect the fuse: Check your vehicle's owner's manual to find the power window fuse. Use a test light to see if it's getting power; if a fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same amperage. 
• Test the switch: If your car has a similar switch for another window, you can temporarily swap it to see if the affected window now works. If it does, the original switch is faulty. 

This video demonstrates how to check a car window motor fuse: 56sCody the Car GuyYouTube · Jul 19, 2013
3. Inspect the wiring and motor 

• Check the wiring harness: Open the door and look at the bundle of wires in the rubber boot that connects the door to the car's body. Wires can break here from repeated opening and closing of the door, so inspect for any signs of fraying or damage. 
• Examine the window motor and regulator: If the fuse and switch are working and the wiring looks good, the problem could be with the motor itself or the window regulator, which is the mechanism that moves the glass. You may need to remove the door panel to get a better look at these parts. 

This video shows how to inspect a car window motor and regulator: 55s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Feb 24, 2022
4. When to seek professional help

• If you're not comfortable with electrical work or don't have the right tools, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic or auto glass shop for diagnosis and repair.