One of the frequently used components on a car is the window regulator. Thus, it wears out quickly and may break when you least expect it.

Common symptoms of bad window regulators

When your window regulator stops working normally, you will easily know. Some things you will notice as follow, depending on whether you are using manual or power windows.

One power window not working

If a power window does not work, the cause may be a bad switch, a motor failure, or bad wiring. This means that the drive mechanism is not getting enough power or no power at all. The window will not move even if you press the button to raise or lower the glass.

The problem of a power window not working can be solved by replacing a faulty switch or disconnection. If the wiring harness is loose, you only need to reinstall it. You can also replace a broken window regulator motor, but only if it is not part of the regulator. If it is built into the mechanism, only the entire assembly can be replaced.

Manual or power windows are stuck

This symptom indicates damaged or bent parts such as gears, rails/rails, cables, and arms. Manual or power windows stuck up and down are also signs of debris or loss of lubrication in the mechanism. If you have in a cold climate, the window regulator assembly may be frozen. A stuck power window can also cause other symptoms. You may notice that the window regulator motor gets hot.

Only a few parts of the window regulator are replaceable to solve the problem of window sticking. These include cables, clips, and sometimes gears. It can also remove debris or ice that causes the mechanism to jam. In most conditions, you need to replace the window regulator, especially if there are too many damaged parts or the parts are bent.

Grinding noise of power windows

The friction of the windows indicates a problem with the mechanism. It either gets stuck due to rust and debris, or it gets stuck due to damage to parts such as gears, plastic parts, and cables. In most cases, you will notice that the window does not roll but the motor is running, or the glass moves a bit before it gets stuck.

Most window regulator parts cannot be replaced. When damaged, you must replace the entire regulator assembly. You also shouldn't let sticky power windows run for any time. Doing so may overload the motor and cause it to burn.

All Power Windows will not work

The cause is usually a blown fuse, a short circuit, a faulty control module, or a bad cable. These problems will cut off the power to all windows, causing them to malfunction. When you press the switch to turn them on, the windows will not move even though the main controls.

You can replace the blown fuse to restore power to the window regulator motor. If the problem is with the wiring, tracing the entire circuit that powers the windows can help you identify (and correct) the fault. A word of warning: Power supply problems may cause damage to the window regulator motor and even other components. Only professionals can try to fix them.

Lower speed of power windows

Slow or weak power windows are usually caused by lack of adequate lubrication, accumulation of debris, or bending of window regulator components. Insufficient battery power or poor wiring can also cause power windows to slow down. In some cases, failure of the control module can cause the window speed to be too high or too low.

Lubricating the window regulator or removing debris from moving parts can help solve the problem. Repair power problems, such as replacing damaged window regulator cables. If the speed change is caused by damaged or bent parts, replace the entire mechanism.

How to buy a window regulator

Manufacturers make window regulators suit specific vehicle types and models. Thus, finding the correct model requires you to be familiar with the factors to be considered. Follow these guidelines to select equipment.

Use your car details, such as type, model, and year of manufacture, to find a suitable regulator to buy. This will help you ensure compatibility. Many suppliers of window regulators can choose to search for parts using detailed information. You only need to enter them in the search box on their website.

Determine the type of regulator you need. There are manual types and electric types. The power regulator is more comfortable to use, but at a higher cost. They are also modern and are the standard of modern cars. Other options include choosing between cable, lever, and rack/pinion adjuster types.

Also, consider the brand. Some brands are of higher quality than others. Some are more affordable while providing acceptable performance or longevity. Researching different companies can help you make the right decision.

The price of window regulators varies. You may want to look for discounts, especially when changing multiple devices.

If you are considering installing the equipment yourself, you may need to choose a window regulator kit instead of a kit provided as a single unit. You also need the manufacturer's instructions on the process of installing the components or the window regulator manual. Some sell one, and some don't.