Expert: Ben Menard - 8/21/2009

Question
I have a 1999 Buick Regal LS. The power windows seem to have a mind of their own. Sometimes they work, sometimes they don't. All four fluctuate together, not individually. Restarting the car doesn't help. One time I got it to go down and then after a 10min drive it would not go back up again. I initially thought it was to do with sitting in the hot sun, but this is inconsistent. The radio and ignition work fine. I don't have the cash to take it to a mechanic, so I'm asking to you. What could be the problem?

Answer
Hello Gideon,

The symptoms you describe are very unusual for this make and model of vehicle.  I suspect that you may have a wiring issue.  Please try the following steps and let me know the results.

1.  Open the driver's door and turn on the ignition.

2.  Activate all four buttons on the master window switch up and down one button at a time.

3.  Then close the door and activate all four buttons one by one again.

4.  Open the driver's door again.  "Massage" the black rubber covering on the bundle of wires at the front of the door between the door hinges.  Now, activate all four buttons again.

I'll be waiting to hear from you.

Ben .... the power window guy.