Expert: Ben Menard - 5/25/2011

Question
2002 toyota highlander back passenger window will not raise up. You can hear it attempt to lower and raise so i know its not the button or fuse..if i could just get it back up and leave it up, i would not worry about fixing it for the time being. It was all the way up this morning and when i pushed to button to take it down it would not come back up. Can i take needle nose pliers and attempt to raise it back up..I can feel and see the window. Thanks for any ideas as i am not interesting in a great expense with this problem...but i do need for the window to be raised.

Answer
Hello Pam,

This problem is not uncommon on this vintage of Highlander.  The problem happens when the channel on the bottom of the glass moves out of position.  This allows the guide on the end of the window regulator arm to slip out of the channel.  So even though you can hear the mechanism (regulator) move, it doesn't lift the window because the glass is no longer connected to it.

I don't recommend that someone unfamiliar with power windows attempt to correct this problem.  I suggest you find a local auto glass shop that is rated A+ with your Better Business Bureau.  They should be able to quote you a price to repair it, or if you wish to save a few dollars, just raise the glass up permanently.

Feel free to send a follow up question if you need more information.

Ben  ... the power window guy.