I. Why Car Windows Won’t Lift or Lower
Car window regulators are the devices that raise and lower car windows. In the past, most were hand-cranked, but now most new cars use push-button electric regulators. Each door handle has a switch to control the raising and lowering, and the driver’s side also has a master switch. However, sometimes car windows won’t lift or lower. What could be the reason?
1. Reasons for Partial Window Failure
If only some car windows won’t lift or lower, the glass might be stuck. There are many possible reasons for this, such as deformation or damage to the glass groove, loose screws securing the regulator, a damaged regulator, or misalignment of the guide rail.
2. All Car Windows Won’t Lift or Lower
If this happens, the general reasons might be:
(1) Damaged window regulator motor or poor electrical wiring: If you smell a burning odor or hear unusual noises from inside the door panel when you press and hold the window button, the window regulator motor components are likely damaged.
(2) Motor overheat protection: All car window lift motors are equipped with overheat protection mechanisms, primarily to protect the power supply circuit. If components overheat for any reason, the motor will enter overheat protection mode, causing the window to malfunction.
(3) Excessive resistance in the glass guide channel: Prolonged use and lack of maintenance can lead to dust accumulation in the glass guide channel, increasing resistance and potentially preventing the window from raising or lowering.
(4) Poor relay contact or damage: In this case, the wiring needs to be checked.
II. What to do if the car window cannot be raised or lowered
If the car window cannot be raised or lowered, you need to find the cause and then solve it. If it’s a minor problem, it’s better to fix it yourself. If the problem is more serious, you’ll need to call a professional. So, what should you do if the car window cannot be raised or lowered?
1. Temporary solution for a car window that won’t roll up or down:
Turn on the ignition switch, hold the upward switch (or lower it) until the window is fully raised, then hold it for at least 3 seconds. Release the switch and immediately press it down and hold it, allowing the window to lower completely. Hold for at least 3 seconds, then repeat the upward movement once more. The initialization process is complete, and the window function should be restored.
Note: This method works for most car models, but may not be effective for some. Please refer to your vehicle’s manual.
2. Repair at a 4S dealership or repair shop:
If this method is ineffective and the problem persists, you can take your car to a 4S dealership or repair shop for inspection and professional repair.