What Causes Abnormal Noise When Rolling Car Windows Up and Down?

[LillianLee]

There are several reasons that may cause abnormal noise when rolling car windows up and down: 1. Dirty or obstructed rubber window tracks: Door window rubber tracks tend to accumulate dust, which can create noise during window operation. In this case, first clean the dust from the rubber tracks with water, dry them thoroughly, and then spray some rubber protectant or lubricant on the tracks. This should eliminate the noise. 2. Aged rubber window tracks: Like windshield wipers, door window rubber tracks are constantly exposed to sun and rain, making them prone to aging and losing elasticity. Friction between the window glass and aged rubber tracks will produce noise, and the only solution is to replace the rubber tracks. 3. Dust or debris in the window regulator or a faulty regulator motor: The door window is operated by the window regulator at the bottom. Although the regulator is hidden inside the door, dust can still find its way in. Additionally, the regulator tracks and cables are coated with grease, making them more susceptible to dust accumulation. To resolve this, simply clean off the dust-contaminated grease from the regulator tracks and apply fresh grease to eliminate the noise.

[SanRiver]

I remember my old car's windows always made squeaky noises when rolling up or down, which was mainly due to too much dust on the tracks. The accumulated dirt caused friction and noise, especially on rainy or dusty days. Insufficient lubrication could also lead to strange sounds, as the lubricant dries up quickly in the summer heat. I always keep some window-specific lubricant handy—a quick spray usually helps. Another reason could be deformed tracks. If the door has been impacted or aged, the tracks may become misaligned, causing the window to stutter and make noise when rolling up. Don’t underestimate this issue—long-term neglect could damage the window motor, leading to costly repairs. So, whenever I hear unusual noises, I first clean the tracks and apply lubricant. Regular maintenance can prevent bigger problems.

[LaBriella]

My new car is only half a year old, but the windows sometimes squeak when rolling up or down. It's really annoying. It might just be dirt on the guide rails, with dust clogging the gaps and causing friction noises when operating. Insufficient lubrication is also a common cause. I tried spraying some leftover engine oil from home, but my friend said silicone-based grease would be safer and more effective. Additionally, hardened or aged sealing strips can lead to strange noises, so check for any cracks or looseness. If left unrepaired, the noise will likely worsen and could even cause the windows to jam, affecting their operation. I've now made it a habit to clean the window gaps monthly to ensure there's no debris blocking them.

[AmaraAnn]

Window lifting noise mostly stems from a few simple causes: dirt accumulation on the tracks causing abnormal friction; evaporated or insufficient lubricant leading to dry grinding of mechanical components; or wear and tear in lifting mechanisms like motor gears generating noise. Aged and deformed sealing strips can also trigger sounds. Upon discovery, priority should be given to cleaning the tracks and applying professional lubricant. If ineffective, check whether the motor operates normally. Ignoring such issues may result in obstructed window movement, posing safety risks in emergencies, thus requiring prompt attention.