Expert: Ben Menard - 4/15/2011

Question
The rear driver side window was lowered yesterday(probably 1st time in 5 years) and is now jammed open. I've tried to physically raise it but was unable to move it at all. I can hear what sounds like the motor operate for a few seconds in each direction using the control buttons both front and rear but get no window movement. Can I physically raise the window to a closed position by removing the door panel or does it sound like I'm stuck with a shop visit? I don't care if the window's unusable in a closed position, rarely does anyone ride in the rear seat.

Thanks for any suggestions.....

Answer
Hello Jim,

If you can hear the motor move for only a second or two in either the up or down direction, that means that the "cable regulator" portion of the mechanism is broken.  If you remove the door panel, (see note below) you can cut the regulator cables (be sure not to cut the electrical wires) and then you will be able to raise the glass.  You will need to secure the glass in the up position or it will fall back down.  I usually put a small block of wood underneath the glass and secure the block of wood to the door sheet metal with a drywall screw.  If you chose this option, be sure to unplug the wires to motor.

If the motor runs continuously in both directions as long as you hold the switch button either up of down, then the problem is in the "gear head" of the motor.  If that is your situation, you should be able to pull the window up if someone presses the switch while you lift the glass.  Once you have it up, it will stay there as long as no one presses the switch or pulls down on the glass.  Here again, it is a good idea to unplug the wires to the motor

NOTE:
To remove the door panel, first remove the switch from its position in the armrest by prying up carefully around the switch plate.  Next remove the screws that hold the switch to the switch plate.  Next, remove the two or three screws that secure the door panel to the door.  After you remove the panel screws, the panel lifts straight up for removal from the door.  Don't try to pry the panel away from the door.  There are no "bristle" type fasteners that secure the panel to the door.  This panel utilizes "claws" or "hooks" that slide into slots on the door.

Let me know if there is anything else I can do to help.

Ben ... the power window guy