Electric Window Motor replacement & repair made easy

What does an electric window motor do?

The electric window motor is located inside the door panel and powers the window regulator. This, in turn, physically moves the window up or down as the window switch inside the car is operated.

How does the electric window motor work and what are the components?

The electric window motor is operated by a switch, usually located on the door card. When the switch is operated, the power circuit is joined to the motor and it will start to run. Depending on which way the switch is operated, this could be up or down.

The motor will either wind the window regulator cables one way or the other depending on the way the switch is positioned or it will power a solid arm to move the window glass accordingly.

The circuit is protected by fuses which will blow if there is too much current drawn by the motor, either due to its failure or seizure, but also if there is a wiring issue between the door and the vehicle chassis.

How do you know there is something wrong with an electric window motor?

• When the window does not open or close when using the switch.
• When the window's movement is unusually slow.
• When opening or closing the window is paired with excessive noise.

When should you consider an electric window motor replacement?

Over time, due to prolonged use a motor can wear in which case using the windows might be problematic with slow or erratic window movement. Sometimes the electric window motor can fail completely. In many cases though, it might be that the system has blown a fuse. On other occasions it might be that the electric window mechanisms have seized.

An electric window motor failure is not necessarily easy to identify. When the windows do not move and there is no buzz coming from the motor inside the door, it is clear there is an issue with the electrics of the window. It might be that the window switch has failed or that there is a loose or corroded connector. At an inspection a mechanic will establish, step by step, what the fault in the electrical system is before replacing any parts.

How common is an electric window motor replacement?

As it is a unit that is frequently used, it is quite common for one to eventually fail.

How can I extend the lifetime of my electric window motor?

The more strain you put on the window motor, the quicker it will wear out. By keeping the windows free of grit and waiting until ice has melted (or removing it) before operating the window will reduce unwanted resistance.

What happens during an electric window motor replacement?

• The mechanic will inspect the electric window arrangement and the motor.
• The mechanic will carry out checks to determine the fault in the electrical system.
• If necessary, the mechanic will replace the faulty electric window motor.
• The mechanic will advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
• The mechanic will test the window's operation to ensure everything works correctly.
• If necessary, the mechanic will make adjustments.

How much does an electric window motor replacement cost?

The cost of an electric window motor replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement. Find out what you could save by having your electric window motor replaced by ClickMechanic, by selecting your car at the top of this page!