What are the reasons for the abnormal noise when raising and lowering the Civic's windows?
3 Answers
The abnormal noise when raising and lowering the Civic's windows can be attributed to two main reasons: Dirty or obstructed door window rubber tracks: The door window rubber tracks may be dirty or have foreign objects. Unless they have just been cleaned, the door window tracks of every car accumulate dust over time, which can cause abnormal noises when the windows are raised or lowered. Aging door window rubber tracks: The door window rubber tracks may have aged. After all, the door window tracks are exposed to sunlight and rain, and over time, they naturally deteriorate. When raising or lowering the windows, you may hear abnormal noises caused by the aged rubber scraping against the glass. Solution: In this case, you can temporarily use a rubber protectant to restore some elasticity to the rubber and reduce the noise from friction against the glass, but this effect only lasts for about ten minutes. The best solution is to replace the tracks.
I've encountered the issue of noisy window operation several times. As a Civic owner, I found the main cause is insufficient lubrication in the window regulator tracks, where accumulated dust and grime creates squeaking friction during window movement. My solution was to lower the window completely, thoroughly clean the tracks, then apply automotive-grade silicone spray lubricant - an inexpensive fix. If the noise persists after lubrication, it might indicate worn regulator cables or motor bearing issues, particularly common in older Civic models where deteriorated weatherstripping increases friction. Don't underestimate this noise - it often signals bigger problems, like motor burnout that could completely jam the window. I recommend quarterly track cleaning or immediate moisture removal after rainy days to prevent buildup. For recurring issues, a comprehensive 4S shop inspection of the regulator system is advisable for safety assurance.
A friend who owns a Civic once shared his frustration with window rattling, and I believe the solution can start with simple steps. Often, dust or debris stuck in the window tracks causes grinding noises during operation. When I tackled this myself, cleaning the track gaps with a toothbrush proved effective. Lubrication is also crucial—a quick spray of WD-40 on the rails does the trick, but avoid spraying electrical components. Another common culprit is loose or rusted cables in the lifting mechanism, particularly in pre-2015 Civic models, which may require part replacement. Don’t overlook weather effects—cold temperatures harden rubber seals, increasing friction and amplifying noise. For prevention, regularly roll down windows to ventilate and remove dust, keeping tracks clean. If rattling persists, inspect promptly to prevent total lift mechanism failure. Safety first—never delay repairs.
