Expert: Ben Menard - 1/14/2010

Question
QUESTION: I have a 2002 Toyota highlander. The passenger side window goes down with no problems. When I want to put the window up, it will go up about halfway or less. Than I have to wait a few seconds before I hit the power button. It will than go up a little more. I than have to repeat this process until the window is completely up. What do you think the problem is? Are there after market parts for this problems or do I look for used parts from a wreck?
Thanks Ron

ANSWER: Hi Ron,

The window lift motor is failing.  Eventually, it will take more and more "waits" to get it up.  At some point it won't go up at all.

The supplier I use for most of my parts does not offer a motor for this application.  I found a few choices on Ebay, but I have no way to judge the reliability of the products being offered.

If you need additional information, feel free to send me a follow up question.

Ben ... the power window guy

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I contacted an auto savage dealer. They have a motor and regulator, sold together as one. The parts are from a 2002 highlander with 60,000 miles on it. The price is half of what it would cost for a new part. Would you reccomend buying this part from a auto savage dealer.

Answer
Hi Again Ron,

There is always some risk when purchasing salvaged parts.  That is why salvage yards typically don't offer much more than a 30 to 90 day warranty.

One the other hand, I have not seen many problems with the Highlander.  In addition, there are not many choices when it comes to aftermarket parts for the Highlander.  That tells me that the failure rate is probably lower than average, so your risk when using a salvaged part is also at least a little less than average.

Hope this helps.  Let me know if I can assist in any other way.

Ben ... the power window guy