What are the reasons for the car window not being able to roll up or down?
4 Answers
There are several reasons why a car window may not roll up or down: 1. The switch is malfunctioning; 2. There is an issue with the power supply; 3. The window regulator is faulty; 4. There is excessive dirt in the glass guide channel. If the problem is due to a faulty switch, simply replacing the switch will solve the issue. If the window regulator is the cause, the solution is also to replace it. If the vehicle is still under warranty, you can visit a 4S shop to apply for a free replacement. If the issue is caused by excessive dirt in the glass guide channel, which increases resistance, cleaning the dirt from the glass guide channel will resolve the problem. Car windows are the panes set in the four walls of the vehicle compartment, designed to block wind and rain without obstructing the view. They are typically made of glass materials, and over time, the materials used for car windows have evolved.
I've encountered window regulator failures several times. The most common issue is a blown fuse, especially during summer when using AC while frequently operating windows. Last time my friend's window got stuck, inspection revealed oxidized contacts in the switch - a quick WD-40 spray fixed it. If you hear the motor humming but the glass won't move, it's likely debris in the tracks or a dislodged cable (tree branches falling into window gaps once caused me big trouble). Never force frozen windows in winter - thaw first to avoid motor burnout. For older vehicles, check regulator brackets as metal fatigue fractures can cause entire windows to collapse. Strongly advise against DIY door panel removal - complex wiring inside risks damaging more components.
Window malfunction may occur in three areas: power supply, signal, and actuator. First test if other windows work normally. If only one window fails, focus on checking its switch and motor. Last time I encountered a situation where the driver's seat could control other windows but its own window wouldn't move, and it turned out a spring plate in the switch assembly was broken. If all windows fail, first check the 15A fuse labeled POWER WINDOW in the fuse box. Pay special attention to clogged door drain holes during rainy seasons - my colleague's car had a short circuit due to water soaking the wiring harness. Resetting windows with anti-pinch function is simple: hold the switch for 5 seconds after raising to the top, then hold for another 5 seconds after lowering to the bottom to restore memory. Aging rubber guide channels increase friction resistance - spraying some dashboard wax will make them smooth immediately.
When the car window doesn't move, start with basic troubleshooting: After powering on, press the switch and listen for any motor sound inside the door panel. No sound may indicate a blown fuse or a damaged switch—if replacing the fuse yourself, remember to match the amperage. If there's a clicking sound but the glass doesn't move, it's often due to the lifting mechanism coming off track or the wire getting tangled. Last week, my rear window suddenly got stuck; upon opening it, I found the plastic slider had shattered. For cars with one-touch windows, a reset procedure is needed: Hold the window-up button until the window reaches the top, then continue holding for 3 seconds. Windows that aren't used regularly are prone to sticking, so operate them a few times each month to maintain smooth movement. Modified wiring is particularly prone to issues—my neighbor's windows became intermittent after installing ambient lighting. Electric windows are most vulnerable to water damage; operating them after rain will almost certainly burn out the motor.
