While power windows are an ideal choice for most modern vehicles, they do develop problems over time. The windows may stop working if a mechanical or electrical issue has occurred.

You may notice that only some windows seem to respond to the power switch while others won’t open or close at all. Other signs of trouble can be hard to understand if you’re unsure how power windows work.

Take a look at the most likely reasons why your car’s power windows may fail to work properly.

1. Blown Fuse

A fuse forms the link between your power windows and the rest of the car’s electrical system. However, an issue with the electrical circuitry might cause the fuse to blow. In doing so, the blown fuse cuts off the power supply to the window’s electrical circuit.

The idea is to protect your power window circuitry and mechanical components from electrical damage. But with a blown fuse, the windows won’t get any power to allow for proper functioning. Luckily, modern vehicles have different fuses across different electrical components, so the blown fuse may not affect the other electrical functions such as the lights or radio.

Your auto window expert could replace the blown fuse with a new one. A trained technician will also go the extra mile to determine what faults caused the blown fuse and find solutions to avoid a recurrence.

2. Faulty Regulator

The regulator lowers and raises your power windows whenever you activate the switch. It is connected to a switch-activated electric motor. If the window mechanical components get power but the windows won’t open or close, a bad regulator could be the likely cause. Also, the glass may fall out of alignment with the regulator, but you can still hear the motor working.

Other faulty regulator symptoms may include:

• Unusual noises when opening or closing your windows
• Windows rising very slowly but not closing all the way
• Jammed or crooked windows

To repair a faulty regulator, your auto glass expert may have to rip out the inner door panel to access the regulator. But they need to be certain of a regulator issue before they can proceed. The technician could then replace the whole regulator assembly before they attach the new regulator.

Because of the complexity involved, make sure to only hire experienced experts.

3. Damaged Motor 

Electrical motors are crucial in the operation of power windows. After you press the power switch, the motor draws electrical power to raise and lower the windows through the tracks. The motor has gears that move the regulator up and down to allow for proper operation.

However, gradual use can cause the motor to develop problems and malfunction. Eventually, no power will be available in the motor to raise or lower your windows. A replacement may be the best solution, especially if you’ve had your car for a long time.

You may need a qualified technician to replace a faulty motor. As with regulator replacement, they would still have to pull out the inner door panel to access the mechanical parts of your power window.

4. Window Glass Misalignment 

Window glass uses tracks as guides when you raise or lower your power windows. But sometimes, the glass may fall out of alignment with the track. Poor suspension, door slamming, and bumpy terrain can all create misalignment issues.

If the window glass is slightly misaligned, it may not open or close fully. But for severe misalignment, the window glass may not even move at all.

Most drivers can appreciate the ease and convenience of modern power windows. But if you experience any trouble, don’t hesitate to contact us at Aaron Auto Glass.