Expert: Ben Menard - 9/28/2009

Question
On my 2002 Pontiac Grand Am, as I was manually cranking up my driver side window. The window fell into the door. I've heard that this is a reoccurring problem with these vehicles, but how do I go about getting it fixed the right way?

Answer
Hello Jamaal,

You are correct: the failure rate for this window mechanism is higher than average.  Unless you are very mechanically inclined and have the time and necessary tools, the repair is probably best left to an experienced mechanic or glass repairman.  I can give you a little bit of "jargon" about the mechanism so that you will be able to talk intelligently with the prospective repairer.

First of all, the mechanism inside the door that raises and lowers the window is called a "regulator."  In this vehicle it is a "cable style" regulator.

The most common failure occurs at the regulator "clips."  These are two small plastic parts that the regulator cables pull up and down as they slide on two vertical rails: one rail at the front and one rail at the back of the glass.  The GM "clip" part number is 22697623.  They retail for about $43 each.

It is also common for one or both of the plastic mounting brackets that are glued to the bottom of the glass to break when the clips break.  These brackets or "sashes" as GM refers to them cost about $12 each.  The GM part number is 22689012.

An experienced mechanic should be able to make the repair in about an hour, so you can expect to pay anywhere from $140 to $180 depending on exactly what is broken and what the labor rates are in your area.

Let me know if you have any additional questions.

Ben ... the power window guy.