How to Replace a Power Window Motor

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual

Replacing a power window motor is not a complicated process. In fact, it is a simple procedure that can be performed by just about anyone. Here are the steps to help you as you learn how to replace a power window motor.

Steps

1. 1
   Diagnose the problem and consider the source of the issue with your power windows before you proceed.
   • If all of the windows are nonoperational, you may have a bad fuse. If the fuses are good, you may have a bad wiring connection. In this case you'll have to track the connections from the fuses and test them with a voltmeter.
2. 2
   Test the switches if only one window is affected.
   • If you can open the widow from the front but not the back, or vice versa, most likely you need a new switch.
3. 3
   Remove the panel from the dysfunctional window if none of the previous options apply.
4. 4
   Pull all of the mounting bolts or screws out.
5. 5
   Remove the plastic insulation from the interior of the door.
6. 6
   Access the window mechanism and identify the motor, mounting bolt, electrical connector and the window regulator cable.
7. 7
   Disconnect the safety clip and detach the electrical connector.
8. 8
   Check the voltage at the motor using a volt meter and connect the positive probe to one motor wire and the negative probe to the other.
9. 9
   Activate the window switch and read the meter. If the voltage level is above 11, you've verified that the motor is defective.
10. 10
    Inspect the mechanism as a whole as there might be other issues that hinder the motor's functionality.
11. 11
    Remove the regulator from the door assure that the window is not going to fall out.
12. 12
    Remove the mechanism and fasten it firmly with masking tape.
13. 13
    Remove the rivets using a center punch and a hammer to drive the center pin in.
14. 14
    Slide the window regulator out of the access panel.
15. 15
    Secure the regulator and motor assembly in a vise and use a 1/4 inch (0.64 cm) drill bit to make a hole through the gear and into the chassis.
16. 16
    Install a 1/4 inch (0.64 cm) bolt to prevent the arms from moving while the motor is removed.
17. 17
    Remove the rivets that hold the motor in the regulator and pull the motor out.
18. 18
    Apply a small amount of grease to the gear of the new motor.
19. 19
    Align the mounting holes for the new motor exactly with the original holes and use bolts to remount the motor.
20. 20
    Remove the 1/4 inch bolt (0.64 cm) from the gear of the regulator.
21. 21
    Reinstall the regulator assembly using 1/4 inch (0.64cm) bolts.
22. 22
    Replace the interior liner and the door panel.

    
    

Tips

• A bad fuse is easy to diagnose. None of the windows will react at all when the switch is triggered.
• Always check the fuses and other electrical issues with the ignition in the "on" position.
• If the volt meter reads below 11 when checking the motor connection, you'll have to look more closely at the functionality of the wiring.
• When disconnecting the door panel, be sure that all of the electrical connections are completely detached.
• Be sure to remove all parts of the rivets from the regulator before installing the new motor.
• Applying a little grease to the window channels and slide will delay the need for further repair.
• sources and citations;

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Replace a Power Window Motor All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.