Power Window Motors, Switches & Relays

Accessories like power mirrors are standard equipment on most new vehicles, and manual operation of these components is only a memory for most drivers. In most cases the controls are mounted on the door for easy access, enabling the driver to adjust side view mirror position with the touch of a button. This feature is beneficial for adjustment of the passenger side mirror, which previously required egress from the vehicle or passenger's assistance.

Power windows are operated by reversible motors attached to the window regulators. Each door has a control switch and the driver’s door has a master switch with controls for all doors. The master switch usually includes a safety switch that, when enabled, prevents operation of the individual door switches. Each motor is usually grounded through the switch. Reversing the direction of the current through the motor terminals reverses motor direction, which enables up and down window operation.

Many vehicles are equipped with one-touch power windows. As the name implies, the window can be raised or lowered just by touching the button, instead of holding it in the down or up position. Although many newer vehicles have this feature on all four side windows, some cars and trucks may only have one-touch power on the driver’s window and it may only work for lowering the window. While a one-touch power window only saves a few seconds, it frees your hand and can be a welcome convenience when you’re getting your money together in the drive-thru or a toll booth lane.

The window regulator converts the rotary motion of the motor into the up and down movement of the window. There are scissors-type regulators, cable and pulley-type regulators, and rack and pinion regulators. Power window systems raise and lower the windows, especially the driver side window, thousands of times during the lifespan of a typical car or truck, and eventually components wear out. Switches, motors, and regulators can fail, and if the regulator linkage binds or excessive resistance develops in the motor or window circuit, the window can operate at slower than normal speed.

For slow operation check the condition of the regulator linkage and lubricate the tracks if necessary. Voltage drop testing can be used to find excessive resistance. If the window doesn’t work at all, first check the fuse or circuit breaker. Jumper wires can be used to apply power to test the motor. The motor is reversible and should work in both directions. If the motor works, a test light or voltmeter can be used to check the control circuit. No matter which component caused power window failure, we have the right parts for the repair including motors, switches, relays, regulators, and motor and regulator assemblies.