How to fix a manual car window

Normally, the entire window pulley system must be replaced when one of the mechanical parts of it fails. For electric-powered windows, check the fuse and wiring circuit to the motor, including the operation switch. Any of the points in the electrical system can fail, and prevent the window from moving.

The battery might be dead, or the car's ignition may not be turned on, as some cars require for window operation. The motor itself may fail after years of continuous use, and it is replaced by disconnecting its wires at the adapter plug and unbolting it. Free the window glass, as the window is being prevented from moving. Ice and snow can freeze the window in place, as can glues and adhesives. Removing or melting the blockage will allow the window to move. Eli Laurens is a ninth-grade physics teacher as well as a computer programmer and writer.

He studied electrical engineering and architecture at Southern Polytechnic University in Marietta, Ga. Step 1 Remove the door panel to access the window's mechanics.

Step 2 Check the window glass's position in the track s. Step 3 For manual windows, check the operation of the crank and its connection to the scissor-shaped jacking mechanism. Step 4 For electric-powered windows, check the fuse and wiring circuit to the motor, including the operation switch. Locate the manual window regulator, and remove it by loosening the mount bolts with a socket wrench. Reposition the glass pane in its original position so it aligns correctly with your new window regulator.

Place it in the same position it was in when you took it out in Step 3. Press the door panel back into place by realigning it with its rivets. Tighten all remaining screws and bolts to secure the door panel. Jim Green has been a professional freelance writer and copy editor for over six years. He holds a B. Green has special expertise in the areas of health, recreation, travel, home and garden, and personal finance.

Step 1 Disconnect the vehicle's battery. Step 2 Remove the vehicle's interior door panel. Step 3 Remove the glass retainer bolts -- for most vehicles, by turning the bolts counterclockwise. Step 4 Locate the manual window regulator, and remove it by loosening the mount bolts with a socket wrench.

Step 5 Replace the damaged window regulator with a new one.