Power Window Repair: How to Fix an Off-Track Power Window

power window buttons in car
  • 2-3 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 0-80
What You'll Need
Screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Car hardware kit for removing bolts
White lithium grease
What You'll Need
Screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Car hardware kit for removing bolts
White lithium grease

Power window repair can involve dealing with broken window regulators or windows that refuse to slide up and down. The latter speaks of a situation where usually a power window is off track or out of sync with the window rollers and tracks it runs along, making your window feel stuck inside the door. This type of power window repair is fairly simple and can be done in your home garage. It is important to diagnose and determine the cause of the window that is off track. It could be due to worn out rollers that need to be replaced. Learn how to gain access to the rollers and replace them by following the step-by-step guide.

Step 1 – Remove Access Panels

First, remove all of the plastic access panels in the door and remove any covers that have screw holes in them.

Step 2 – Remove Control Switch Panel

The control switch panel should be removed using a flathead screwdriver. The trick is to slide the screwdriver underneath the panel and push the panel upward until it comes off. (Be sure to do this without breaking the panel.)

Note: Not all cars have switch panels, as some cars have their power window controls embedded in the door panel, so you may be able to skip this step depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Step 3 – Disconnect Electrical Connector

After you have taken out the switch panel, disconnect the electrical connector by gently releasing the connector safety lock.

Step 4 – Remove Door Panel

Now, remove all of the screws and/or door panel bolts on the door panel. Some bolts will be the push type and won’t require tools like screwdrivers to remove. After all the panel bolts are removed, disconnect any remaining electrical connectors, and gently pull off the door panel.

Step 5 – Remove Plastic Cover

Most cars come with a plastic insulator cover inside the door panel. When you pull that plastic cover apart, it will expose the inner electrical workings of the car door and window.

Step 6 – Look Through the Window Channel and Take out the Rollers

Look through the window channel, which is the area where the window rolls up and down. You will easily be able to see the rollers and tracks that the window passes through. Take out the rollers that are worn out.

Step 7 – Replace the Rollers with New Ones

You can get new rollers for your window from any car spare-parts dealership. Replace the old rollers with the new ones.

Step 8 – Lube up the Rollers and Tracks

It is important to sufficiently lubricate the new rollers and tracks for the windows to roll up and down. This will also prevent extra wear and tear in the future and will decrease the probability of you having to repair your power windows again. Use white lithium grease in large amounts.

Step 9 – Slide Rollers in Tracks

Slide the rollers into the tracks with the fresh lube, and get the whole mechanism further smoothed out. Just remember to put back the regulator, electrical connectors, and door panel in reverse order and your job will be done.