Expert: Ben Menard - 1/31/2009

Question
Hi Ben, I have a 2002 Tacoma 4DR with a driver side electric window problem.  When I operate the window without going more than about half way down, the window goes up and down normally.  When I forget and lower the window down all the way down, It will not raise up.  There is no noise at all.  I have to reach under the door panel and push on the bottom of the window until it is almost all of the way up and then it starts working fine again.  Any thoughts?
Thanks,
John

Answer
Hi John,

Let's start by assuming that all you really need is some lubrication in the glass "run channels."  These are the rubber gaskets that the glass slides up and down in.  I recommend a silicone spray.  Some are quite pricey, but the cheap ones work just as well. You will probably find the best price at Home Depot, Lowes, etc.  Silicone only! Don't let them sell you anything else.

Start by lowering your window part way down.  Liberally spray the silicone into the front and back run channels.  Spray in enough so that it pools and runs down the edge of the glass.  Now roll the window up and then let it down a few more inches than the first time.  Repeat this process two or three times until the glass has reached the bottom.  If lubrication is the problem, the window should be working much better.  You could get even more improvement by removing the door panel and lubricating the run channels inside the door, but it probably won't be necessary.

What if you don't get any improvement?  You most likely will need a new window motor.  The motor has a lot more work to do when the glass is at the bottom going up than when it is at at the top going down.  It is overloading when the glass is all the way down.  

Let me know how things turn out or if you need some advice on replacing the motor.

Ben .... the power window guy.