Definitive guide on window regulators in 2023 (2023)

Chapter 1: What is a window regulator? What does a window regulator do?

The window regulator is a standard car part. All motor vehicles have it, from the economy type to theluxury model. But the regulator assembly is always hidden from view and its operation is difficult to understand. This chapter will familiarize you with the operation of a window regulator, explain the different types of window regulator and the advantages of each. We will also look at the cost of a new window regulator and the reasons behind the different prices. To pop us off, this is what the normal window refers to.

What is a window regulator in a car?

A window regulator is the component that opens and closes the window of a car. It is part of the window assembly which also includes theGlass of windowand its track or tracks. The window lift mechanism is usually mounted in the inner section of a car door, behind the door panel. It is fixed to the door frame by means of bolts and screws, with openings to allow its insertion and removal.

The car window regulator has to support a lot of weight when moving the glass. To make it robust, the lifting mechanism is mainly made up of steel parts. The set also contains movable joints. To reduce friction, these are usually made ofbrass. Plastic is also a common material for window regulator components.

The window regulators on the market are specified by the window where they are installed. There are, for example, the front and rear window regulators. A front window regulator supports more weight (bigger glass) and is often designed to slide on two rails.

There is also the window regulator on the driver and passenger side. Of the two, the driver's side window regulator takes the most abuse. It is usually the most used and often the first to fail and require replacement. Next, let's see the components that make up the window regulator assembly.

window regulator parts

Window regulators come in different construction and operating mechanisms. However, the overall design doesn't change much. The assembly consists of these main parts: drive mechanism, lifting mechanism and window support. These are explained below. Before that, please refer to the parts diagram in this window where the mentioned components are indicated.

Drive Mechanism-this part provides the force to move the glass from its position. It usually consists of a set of gears and a power source, which is either a hand-operated crank or a small12 VDC motor. The window lift motor is mainly specified by speed and rated current. Another equally important specification of the window lifter is the torque, which determines its ability to operate the lifter part of the assembly.

Lifting Mechanism-the lift mechanism is the part that raises and lowers the window. This is usually a set of arms and slider or cables and rollers. Newer power windows primarily use wires. A window lifter cable directly raises and lowers the glass. It does have its flaws compared to the set of arms and gears, as you'll discover in the next section.

window bracket-the window rests on this part. As the lift mechanism raises or lowers the glass, the bracket moves up with it and along a track as shown inthis animation video. The window regulator bracket should hold the glass firmly, usually using plastic clips. These tend to wear down with age.

Broken window regulator clips are the main reason for glass falling into the gap behind the door panel. However, you can replace them and extend the life of the rest of the regulator assembly. Below is how a window regulator and a motor differ.

Widowed Regulator vs. Engine

The window regulator and the motor are often confused as if they were a single component. However, they are not. The window regulator refers to the mechanism that contains the parts to raise the window of a motor vehicle. On the other hand, a window motor is the component that powers the lifting mechanism of a power window.

The window lift motor can be a separate part or be integrated into the regulator assembly. When separated, it offers the advantage of replacing just the motor instead of the entire window regulator assembly. That helps reduce costs, especially in cases where only the engine is damaged.

In short, a window lifter is the mechanism to lift the window of a car, while the window lifter motor is the part that makes it move. Both terms are used for power windows or what are often referred to as car power windows.

What does a window regulator do?

An automobile window regulator provides the force to raise or lower an automobile window. Converts the rotary motion of a crank or motor into linear motion. This offers many benefits. It ensures that you can easily open and close your car windows at will depending on the current situation. This car window control provides comfort and convenience. Among the functions of the window regulators of a car are:

• To protect the interior of the car from weather elements such as wind, rain and dust.
• Secure the interior of the vehicle keeping intruders out
• Ensure comfort during extreme weather conditions by keeping windows open during hot weather and closed in cold conditions.
• Allow for safety during emergencies by providing a way to lower window glass.

How does a window regulator work to allow all of these things?

The principle of operation depends on the type of window regulators. A power window regulator, for example, uses a different actuator than manual or manual types. The mechanics involved are also different. Let's see how a window regulator works for both the manual and the electric type.

• In a manual window regulator, turning a handle moves the glass up or down. The handle is connected to a gear mechanism. When turned, the gears drive the lift assembly. These types of window regulators also often use a spring to reduce the force needed to close the window and prevent the glass from sagging due to gravity. The spring winds up when lowering the window and unwinds when raising it.
• A power window regulator consists of a switch or switches, an electric motor, and a lifting mechanism. More often, it also incorporates sensors andelectronic control unit, ECU. When you press the power window regulator switch, the electronic system is activated. The motor is energized and begins to rotate, driving the hoist mechanism.

In a manual window regulator mechanism, you determine how far the window opens or closes. The same case occurs in some types of electric windows in which you have to hold down a button. In others, an ECU controls the number of revolutions made by the engine and regulates the opening and closing of the window automatically.

Recent electrical widow regulators use an important technology called anti-pinch. The technology prevents accidents by stopping the movement of the window when there is an obstacle in its path. Instead of going forward, the window stops and retracts. Thisshort videoshows pinch guard technology in action.

Types of window regulators

Window regulators are grouped into 4 main categories based on their operation and the lifting mechanism. They are; electric and manual windows and cable and scissor type windows. Let's see what each one implies.

• Mechanical or manual window regulator

Manual window regulators use a crank to operate the lift assembly. The crank is usually mounted on the door and has a short handle. These types of window regulators are commonly used on older or lower-end car models.

The main advantage of a manual window regulator is its simple design and operation, making it easy to maintain or service. They are also cheaper and easier to replace. On the other hand, the manual window regulator requires effort to operate, which means less comfort and convenience.

• Power or electric window regulator

The power window regulator uses an electric motor to provide the lifting force and complex electronics to control its operation. The motor is usually part of the kit, although some come with the motor as a separate component.

A power window regulator is convenient and convenient to use. You just need to press a button and the window opens or closes automatically. In addition, the mechanism allows for a central control point. Drawbacks include the many parts, which are also difficult to diagnose or repair.

• cable type window regulator

This type of window regulator depends on a wired system to raise and lower the window. The cable rolls on pulleys or rollers that are mounted on the assembly. These types of regulators are mostly used on newer cars and are often powered by an electric motor.

The cable type window regulator reduces the number of parts, leaving space to install other components within the space behind the door panel. It is also lighter than other types. But the cables tend to wear out too quickly from use, sometimes even breaking unexpectedly, which is one of the main disadvantages of this type of regulator.

• scissor type window

The scissor type car window regulator consists of an assembly that looks like a pair of scissors. Usually two pieces of metal intersect at a pivot point in the middle. The arms slide on wheels while the mechanism opens and closes to raise or lower the window.

Scissor type window regulators offer several benefits. One of them is the robust metal components that do not break easily. However, they take up so much space compared to the cable type. Although they are older technology, scissor-type motorized adjusters are popular on many vehicles today.

Window Regulator Cost

Window regulators sold in the auto aftermarket cost different amounts. Prices range from $50 to $600 for most regulators. window lifterfor luxury carsIt can go up to $1000, usually depending on the type of vehicle. In addition to the type of car, there are other factors that determine the cost of a car window regulator.

The assembly can be simple or complex, small or large, and many other differences such as parts and working mechanism. The quantity of a driver's side front window regulator, for example, will be different than that of a rear window. You will also find that electric and manual regulators cost different amounts.

Other factors that go into car window regulator price include the brand and whether the regulator is OEM or aftermarket. Aftermarket options are cheaper, with a good number costing less than $100, while the price of an OEM model can run as high as $1,000.

Conclusion

A window regulator, whether manual or electric, performs important functions in your car. To enjoy these benefits, the regulator must be working properly. However, that doesn't always happen. Mobile or electronic components of the device tend to fail over time. In the next part of the guide, you will learn about window regulator problems and how to tell when they occur.

Chapter 2: Symptoms of faulty window regulator and some maintenance tips

The symptoms of a bad window regulator can mean many things. It could be a broken window regulator, a weak window motor, or even power issues, among other issues. Whether manual or electric, a window regulator takes care of opening and closing the window of your car. If it fails, you will no longer be able to control the window. This chapter will help you know when you have a problem with your window regulator, why, and what to do to correct it.

Before highlighting the symptoms, let's see the reasons for the window regulator failure, or in other words, why your car window stopped working. A manual or power window will not work if any of the following occurs.

• A gear or clip breaks, a slider or pull cracks, or if a cable breaks
• The lifting mechanism gets stuck due to rust, dirt,temperatures below zero, or bend
• The crank breaks or suffers some other damage.
• You have a faulty window motor as a result of worn or burned parts.
• Your car window switch doesn't work
• Hewindow fusehas blown, the control module is faulty or has a faulty relay
• The wiring is faulty, causing the power window to be weak or not working at all.

Now that we have seen why a window regulator fails, let's see how to tell if a window regulator is faulty. These include symptoms for both the manual version and the electrical version of the device.

Common Symptoms of Bad Window Regulators

When the window regulator stops working properly, you will know easily. The following are some of the things you'll notice happening, depending on whether you have a manual or power window.

1. A power window does not work

If a power window is not working, the reason could be a faulty switch, faulty motor, or faulty wiring. It means that the drive mechanism is not getting enough power or there is no power at all. The window then does not move even when you press the glass up or down button.

The problem of a power window not working can be fixed by replacing the faulty switch or broken wires. If hewiring harnessit is loose, you just need to reinstall it. You can also replace a faulty window motor, but only if it's not part of the regulator. If it is built into the mechanism, you will only be able to replace the complete assembly.

2. Hand held or electric ventana

This symptom indicates broken or bent parts such as gears, tracks/rails, cables, and arms. A manual or power window that sticks when going up and down is also a sign of a dirty mechanism or loss of lubrication. If you live in cold climates, the window regulator assembly may be frozen. A stuck power window also causes other symptoms. Many of you will notice that the window lift motor gets hot.

Only a few parts of the window regulator are replaceable to correct a stuck window problem. These include wires, clips, and sometimes a gear.debris or iceYou can also eliminate what is causing the mechanism to get stuck. In most cases, it is necessary to replace the window regulator, especially if there are too many damaged parts or if there are bent components.

3. Squeak noise from power windows

A car window screeching indicates a problem with the mechanism. It is stuck due to rust and debris or because it has broken parts such as gears, plastic components, and cables. Most of the time, you'll notice that the window doesn't move but the motor is running or the glass moves a bit before getting stuck.

Most window regulator parts are not replaceable. When it breaks, the entire regulator assembly must be replaced. You should also never let a stuck power window run for an extended period of time. Doing so could overload the motor and cause it to fail.consume.

5. All power windows will not work

The reason is usually a blown fuse, a short circuit, a faulty control module, or faulty wiring. These issues cut power to all windows, causing them to fail. Windows will not move when you press the switches to open them, even from the master controls.

You can replace a blown fuse to restore power to the window lift motor. If the problem is with the wiring, tracing the entire circuit that supplies power to the windows can help you identify (and correct) the malfunction. A word of caution: Power problems can result in damage to the window lift motor or even other components. Only a professional should attempt to fix them.

6. Power window shift speed

A slow or weak power window is often caused by insufficient lubrication, debris buildup, or bent window regulator parts. TOweak batteryor faulty wiring will also cause the power windows to slow down. In some cases, a faulty control module causes a high or low window speed.

Lubricating the window regulator or removing debris from moving parts may help correct the problem. It also fixes power issues like replacing a broken window regulator cord. If the gear change is due to broken or bent components, replace the entire mechanism.

How to test a window motor

Many cars today use power windows. When a dust window is not working, you want to know the state of the engine. This is because most power window problems are due to a worn or burned out motor. You can test for window motor failure using several methods. One of the easiest (and most accurate) is thevoltage testusing a voltmeter or multimeter.

Here's how to test a power window motor with a multimeter.

• To access the motor connector, remove the door panel by removing the screws and push clips. Some panels are more difficult to remove than others and the procedure you use will depend on your particular car.
• Disconnect the cable connector that goes to the motor.
• Place the multimeter in thevolt scale
• Connect the multimeter leads to the window motor connector.
• Press the window switch down and note the readings. It should indicate 12V
• Push the switch up and look at the multimeter again. It should read -12V to indicate a polarity change.

If the multimeter doesn't read any voltage, the problem is elsewhere. If so, the motor is probably damaged and not running. Consider replacing it if it is the separable type. If not, you will need to install a new window regulator.

Advice for window regulator maintenance

Window regulators can be expensive auto parts. You want them to last a long time and save you replacement costs. Here are some tips to help you protect your car's window regulator from damage.

1. Lubricate moving parts and window tracks or tracks to prevent unexpected binding of manual or power windows. Wearsilicone greasespray, readily available at auto parts stores.

2. Repair sticky switches as soon as you notice that they don't click as expected. Neglecting them could result in damage to the motor and window regulator.

3. Routinely remove debris such as leaves and pebbles from the window before it reaches the window regulator mechanism or guides and causes them to bind.

4. Avoid opening a window regulator that is frozen in ice. You could cause the glass to come loose or strain the motor and cause it to burn out.

5. Do not force open or close a stuck manual or power window. You could break the parts of the window regulator or the glass itself.

6. Address a problem with the window motor or regulator as soon as it occurs, before it causes the entire assembly to break down and require replacement.

Conclusion

A window regulator will eventually fail, but how quickly that happens depends on the steps you take to prevent damage. When it fails, you want to know the symptoms. The information in this chapter should help you know when your car window goes bad, what it means, and the type of damage. Below you will learn about the repair options available when you have a problem with your window regulator.

Chapter 3: How to repair a window regulator

Window regulator repair fixes problems without having to replace the entire assembly. This chapter is intended to help you identify automotive window problems that you can correct, learn how to repair a broken window regulator, and learn about the benefits of repair. With the information, you will be able to choose the right option when your car window fails. Also when you have a limited budget and have more than one broken window regulator.

If you're torn between repairing and replacing, let's start by looking at the reasons why one would choose to repair a window regulator.

• Car window regulator repair saves you money as it is cheaper than replacing the entire device.
• Sometimes only a few (and replaceable) parts are damaged.
• Repairing window lift mechanisms also restores their function and prolongs their useful life.
• In most cases, a power window regulator repair helps identify other problems, such aselectric problemsdue to faulty wiring or weak battery. In such cases, a new regulatory mechanism is not necessary.

Repairing a broken window regulator has its drawbacks. It only provides a temporary solution and the mechanism may fail shortly after. Depending on the extent of the damage, the cost of repair may even approach that of replacement. Evaluating your car's window regulator can help you decide between repairing and replacing it, as you'll discover below.

How to repair a window regulator

Window regulator repair is a fairly simple task, especially if you have manual window regulators. Power windows contain many electrical components. These requirespecialized toolsdiagnose and can sometimes be challenging to service. However, you can still easily fix the power window and motor assembly if you have an idea how to do it.

Here, we show you how to repair both manual and power window mechanisms. But before that, a list of the problems that can be fixed. They are;

• The power window switch does not work
• The power window does not work due to a blown fuse or relay
• Power window works intermittently
• If a power window does not work due to a burned or worn motor
• Manual or power windows get stuck due to a weak motor or debris on slides and rails.
• Window motor fails due to broken pulleys or faulty cable

Next, let's look at the window regulator repair process for the repairable components. You will need the following.

Screwdrivers to open the switch and remove the screws.

A wrench and ratchet set to remove and replace bolts (you may also need a cordless drill to remove rivets)

Adigital multimeter(or voltmeter) to test the window motor and switch connectors

Spray silicone grease to lubricate the window mechanism

Window regulator repair kit or part(s) to be replaced

Step 1 Check and fix the window regulator switch

• Start by removing and testing the switch. This part controls the operation of the power window motor. If it breaks, the window fails. Many window switches come off without removing the panel. You only need to pry with a flat, blunt tool, such as a screwdriver.
• After you have removed the switch, test it for voltage by connecting a voltmeter or multimeter. If there is no power, the problem is not the switch but the wiring that distributes power to the motor. Check the window lift fuse, if it is blown. Also check the relay if it is working.
• If there is voltage at the switch but the motor does not crank, the problem could be with the switch, the motor, or the wiring between the two. then usejumper cablesto bypass the switch and power the motor directly. If the motor spins, the switch is bad. replace it.

Step 2 Engine Test and Repair

• If the switch is working but the motor does not engage, proceed to test it. To access the engine, remove the trim panel by drilling out the retaining rivets or loosening the screws. The panels are attached to the door in different ways. Consult the owner's manual for yours.
• Next, remove the moisture barrier and disconnect the wire harnesses. Use the same procedure as testing the switch and press the switch to open and close the window. If both the switch and the motor are receiving voltage, the motor should be running. If not, it could wear out or burn out.
• Window lift motor repair involves replacing a faulty motor. However, that is only if the motor is not part of the throttle mechanism. Some people even rebuild the engine by replacing faulty parts. These include window lift motor brushes, switches, and other worn replaceable components.

Step 3 Checking the window regulator mechanism

• If the motor and switch work fine but the lift mechanism doesn't, it needs to be fixed. Begin by removing the bolts to remove the window regulator. To prevent the glass from falling, support it usingpainter's tapeor suction cups for window holders.
• Next, check the mechanism for any rust that may be clogging up the moving parts. Also inspect for broken gears, pulleys/rollers, and cables. Other parts to look out for include the sliders, if they are clogged with dirt and debris, as well as the window tracks or guides.
• Window lift wire repair involves replacing a frayed or broken wire. Cable repair goes along with repairing broken rollers or pulleys as both work together. You may also need to change some clips. These often come bundled with the other window regulator repair kit parts, depending on the kit manufacturer.
• Once you have replaced the replaceable parts, clean the mechanism to remove any buildup of dirt. Apply lubrication where appropriate, as shown in thisdiy video. Make sure everything is intact, then replace the assembly by reversing the removal procedure. Test your repaired window regulator to confirm its operation.

Window regulator repair cost

How much does it cost to fix a window regulator? The cost to repair a car window regulator depends on whether you choose to do the repair yourself or take your car to a mechanic. It also depends on your type of car and the type of parts you end up replacing.

At a window regulator repair shop, the cost ranges from $50 to about $200 for labor expenses. Adding in the cost of parts that may need to be replaced, the total amount rises from $70 for the simplest job to around $150 or more. If you repair the device yourself, you could reduce the cost to just the price of the repair kit.

Window regulator repair kit manufacturers include different parts in the package, which causes prices to vary. The kit costs between $10 and $40. Before purchasing the repair kit, please confirm the parts it includes. Some are component and regulator specific. A window lift cable repair kit, for example, includes parts to replace a faulty cable.

You may also choose to purchase individual window regulator parts, such as cables, rollers, clips, or a gear, where applicable. However, these are more expensive compared to a repair kit and you may end up spending more.

Tips to repair the window regulator

If you are not familiar with window regulator repair, you may be making common mistakes that many DIYers make. Make sure everything goes smoothly by following these tips.

• Always replace ablown window fusewith one whose amperage matches. Never use a higher or lower amperage fuse or try to avoid blown fuse.
• Sometimes the wiring is damaged and the problem may not be the window regulator. Trace the wires and inspect them for looseness or breakage.
• When removing the power window switch, avoid using a sharp object to avoid damaging the exterior.
• Avoid forcing the window pane out to prevent damage. Consult your manual to see how to fix it.
• If too many parts are damaged, replace the window regulator.

Conclusion

Repairing a window regulator instead of replacing it saves you the cost of buying a new one. Window regulator repair also helps you detect other problems in the car's window system. This prevents cases where a new window regulator doesn't work or one fails too soon. However, the repair option has its limits. You can only fix a faulty window regulator if it is repairable. If it is excessively worn or broken, you can only change it. In the next and final section, you will learn how to properly replace a window regulator.

Chapter 4: Window Regulator Replacement

Knowing how to replace a window regulator is one of the necessary skills totake care of your car. Changing window regulators also costs a lot of money, and a DIY approach can save you a lot of money. This section explains how to replace a car window regulator, its motor and cable in easy steps. Other things you'll learn include when to choose window regulator replacement over repair and the various costs involved.

Before we can discuss the replacement process itself, here are the reasons to replace window regulator or motor assemblies. Consider changing your car window or motor if you notice any of the following symptoms.

• Irreplaceable parts such as arms, gears or sliders and tracks are damaged
• The mechanism is bent and causes the window to open or close crookedly.
• The window regulator assembly is excessively rusted and stuck.
• The window lift motor is damaged but is integrated into the mechanism and cannot be replaced individually

How to replace a window regulator

Replacing the power window regulator is a simple process. However, the exact replacement steps depend on whether you have a manual or power window. The installation procedure for the power window regulator, for example, requires removing the motor, switch, and connectors. But regardless of the type of window, you must follow the correct replacement steps. We will therefore see how to replace a window regulator when you have a manual window and if it is of the electric type.

This is what you will need:

Pipe wrench

screwdrivers

needle nose pliers

painter's tape

lubricant (silicone grease)

Your new window regulator

If rivets are used as fasteners, take a small cordless drill, several pop rivets, and a riveting gun with you.

Window Regulator Removal

A window regulator can be manual or electric. There will be a difference in the steps to remove any of them. Let's see how to remove both, starting with the manual window regulator.

How to remove a manual window regulator

• disconnect battery. Although the window regulator is manual, there are usually wires inside the door where you will install your new assembly.
• Remove the window handle cover, loosen the screw and remove the handle.
• Remove the screws from the door panel and take it off.
• Peel off weather barrier sheet
• Remove the window bolts or clips to release the glass from the regulator.
• Pick up the glass and secure it with tape.
• Remove the bolts or rivets from the window regulator retainer and slide the assembly out of its track.
• Pull out the window regulator mechanism.

How to remove a power window regulator

• Start by disconnecting the negative battery cable.
• Use a screwdriver to remove the window regulator switch. Disconnect the electrical connector and place the switch in a safe place.
• Remove any other accessories from the door panel.
• Remove the door panel by locating and loosening the fasteners and sliding it off.
• Remove the moisture barrier and unplug the motor electrical connector.
• Locate and remove the bolts that hold the regulator assembly to the window.
• Lift and tape the window to the top of the door to prevent it from falling out when you remove the damper.
• Find the fasteners that hold the window regulator and motor in place. Some regulators have the motor separate and others integrated into the mechanism.
• Remove the window regulator and motor assembly.

Window regulator installation

Like the removal process, the steps on how to install the car window regulator are simple and easy to understand. You just need to make sure you have the correct mechanism for the specific side of the car window. Again, we'll start with manual window regulator installation instructions.

How to install a manual window regulator

• Compare the new and old regulator and confirm that you have the correct model.lubricate moving partsbefore starting the installation
• Push the regulator assembly into the door and place it on the window track.
• Remove the tape holding the window and lower the glass onto the regulator mechanism.
• Replace the fasteners that hold the window to the regulator.
• Use the crank to raise the window.
• Remove the crank and screw the window regulator to the door frame.
• Reinsert the crank and test the window to see if it is working.
• Remove the crank and replace the moisture barrier, door panel, and any other parts you removed. insert crank

How to install a power window regulator

• Match the new regulator to the old one to make sure they are similar and apply lubricant to the moving parts.
• Next, connect the motor to the new window regulator.
• Slide the window regulator and motor assembly into place behind the door panel.
• Replace fasteners for both motor and governor.
• Lower the glass and replace the bolts that hold it together with the regulator.
• Re-install the moisture barrier with masking tape.
• Reconnect electrical connectors and replace door panel.
• Replace the power window switch and its electrical connections.
• Remove the tape that you had placed to secure the window.
• Reconnect the negative battery cable that you and previously removed
• Finish the window regulator installation process by testing it to see if it works.

Window regulators generally require rest after replacement, as explainedhere. This is because the control module has to relearn the process to open and close the window.

How to Replace the Window Regulator Motor

In some cases, only the window regulator motor is bad and needs to be replaced. As already stated above, window motor replacement is common when the regulator and motor are separate parts. If that's the case, here's how to replace it.

• disconnect battery
• Remove the window regulator switch, door panel, and moisture barrier to access the motor and regulator.
• Unplug the electrical connectors from the motor.
• Locate and remove the bolts that hold the glass to the regulator mechanism. Lift the window up and tape it down.
• Remove the monitor and regulator assembly bolts.
• Slide the window regulator and motor through the opening in the door.
• Separate the old motor from the regulator and connect the new motor.
• Slide the regulator and motor assembly back into the door and replace everything you removed. Use the reverse procedure of deletion.

How to Replace the Window Regulator Wire

The window wire is another part that car owners need to replace. If you have it broken or frayed, you must change it. Replacing a window cable requires patience, as it is one of the most difficult parts of the mechanism to repair.

Things needed to replace the power window cable include the following.

Window lift cable repair kit

Door panel removal tools and door panel hardware.

Grease to lubricate the window regulator assembly.

These are the steps to reattach the cable to the window lift mechanisms on most models of the device.

• Remove the door panel and its hardware.
• Remove the protective foil carefully to avoid damaging it.
• Remove the screws that secure the window to the regulator and glue the glass to the top of the door.
• Pull out the regulator mechanism.
• Eliminated frayed, broken, or tangled cord.
• Attach one end of the new cable to the cable drum and wrap it around the bottom of the governor mechanism.
• Wrap the cable around the drum until it fills the grooves, then wrap it around the other parts keeping it taut.
• Finally, use the adjustable pulley to tension the coiled cable to the proper level of tension.
• Replace the regulator and replace the glass.
• Test the window to see if it works. If not, you may need to rewind and tighten the cable. If so, replace everything else.

Window Regulator Replacement Cost

How much does it cost to replace a window regulator? You want to know that before you buy your new regulator or take your car to a repair shop. Car window regulator replacement cost varies across different vehicle models. It also varies depending on the type of regulator or window.

A front or driver window regulator replacement, for example, will cost a different amount than changing a rear or passenger window. The cost of replacing the dust window motor and regulator is also different from the amount when you only have to replace one of the components.

That being said, the cost to replace window regulator assemblies ranges from $150 to $400 on most types of vehicles. Here's a breakdown of estimated replacement prices for select car models: Toyota Tundra $150-$250, Honda Pilot $150-$250, Jeep Grand Cherokee $175-$300 and BMW E90 $150-$300.

Prices quoted here may vary based on labor costs in your location, as well as the cost of parts in your region. That being said, you can save on the cost of replacing your window regulator or motor by going the DIY method.

Conclusion

Window regulator replacement is something you cannot avoid. Your car windows, whether manual or power, are bound to go bad at one point or another. When that time comes, you'll want to know what to do. Replacing your car windows yourself can save you a lot of money, especially when you have several broken regulators. Window regulators are also among the easiest to replace, as described in this chapter. With the right tools and an idea of ​​what to do, the task should only take you less than 2 hours.