Expert: Ben Menard - 1/13/2009

Question
i have a 2001 Olds Aurora 3.5 and my driver side window will work sometimes and then not work. it was working for a few months and then it stopped working for a few months. then two weeks ago it started working then stopped again, could that be bad wiring or is the motor going out for the window?

Answer
Hi Eric,

My guess is the motor.  The failure rate on this particular motor is not extremely high, but the symptoms sure suggest that this is your problem.

The next time it stops working try this.

1.  Start the engine with the car in "park."

2.  Open the driver door.

3.  With your right hand activate the window switch and hold it. (up or down depending on what position the window is stuck in)

4.  With your left hand shut the door forcefully.  

If once doesn't do it, try it again.  If the window starts working, that is a sure sign that it's time to replace the motor.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Ben .... the power window guy.