How to Fix Power Windows
Many cars today don’t have windows that can be manually rolled up and down, but instead have power windows that can be controlled with the push of a button. There are times though, that power windows don’t work properly. It can be because of a faulty fuse, wire, motor or the switch itself. Instead of taking the car to an automobile shop, here’s a guide to help you fix your power windows.
What You’ll Need:
Power windows
Screwdriver
Jumper wires
Test light
Procedure:
Find a safe place to park your car while you do the repairs. There are power windows that can only work if their ignition switch is on, so make sure you set it to that. If the window panel of the driver’s side has a lock control switch, put it in the On position, so the switches of each window can be controlled.
power windows
Find the main breaker or power window fuse. Most car models have their fuses found under the driver’s side’s dashboard. If it’s blown, change it. Afterwards, see if the windows work.
Using a test light, examine the wires found between the fuse box and the main control switch. In many car models, the switch can be pulled off the panel using a screwdriver. Attach the test light wire’s end to a good ground, then turn on the ignition.
With the test light’s tip, touch the wire attached to the switch. See if it fails to turn on, then the voltage does not reach the control switch. The problem then comes from the wire that comes from the fuse box. This is the wire that gives power to the window switch or the wire connections.
If only one window isn’t working, find the switch for it. Most models allow you to tug on the switch with a screwdriver. Attach the test light to a ground, then touch the both ends of the switch’s electrical connectors as you switch it.
If the light isn’t coming on, see if there’s an opening at the wire that’s attached to the main control switch. If the light only appears at one of the switch’ sides, then the switch is the one that’s broken and must be replaced.
Take away the door panel, to reach the window motor. When you find the motor electrical connector, use the test light to touch the wire that comes from the switch, as you operate it. If the light isn’t coming on, there’s a short at the wire. If it goes on, the wire connection is all right, and there’s no mechanical obstruction stopping the window from working.
Take the electrical connector from the motor of the power window. Put a car battery beside the window, and connect a couple of jumper wires in between the connector and battery. If the motor doesn’t work, replace it. If it does work, then the failed connection is at the electrical connector’s switch side.
Power windows may be smooth, but like any other contraption, they can break down every now and then. With these tips, you can resolve this problem without consulting a professional. Good luck!