How much does it cost to replace a window motor?
The average cost for a window motor replacement is $200 to $350. This total repair cost consists of $100 to $150 for parts and $100 to $150 for labor costs. Your own window motor replacement cost will largely depend on the type of vehicle you drive.
How long does it take to replace a window motor? It generally takes about two hours for a certified mechanic to replace a window motor. Your mechanic will likely inspect your power window’s operating mechanisms, including the window motor, to determine whether any repairs or part replacements are needed.
What parts do I need for my window motor replacement?
Depending on the reason your vehicle’s power window isn’t working, here are some of the vehicle parts that may need to be replaced:
- Window motor: If one of your vehicle’s power window motors has failed, this is the main part you’ll need to replace. The cost of a power window motor can vary widely from vehicle to vehicle, with common prices ranging anywhere from $30 to $500.
- Window regulator: The power window motor is typically connected to a part known as the window regulator, which uses the power from the motor to help the vehicle’s window move up and down. In some cases, you may replace both the regulator and motor as a single assembly. If this part is damaged as well, window regulators can commonly cost $150 to $800 or more to replace.
- Power window switch: The power window switch you use to open and close your window needs to communicate with the window motor to function properly. If your power window switch is also experiencing problems, costs can range from just $20 to more than $100, depending on your vehicle make and model.
Some popular window motor brands include Dorman, ACDelco, Cardone Industries and more. You can purchase window motors from auto shops like AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts, from online retailers like Amazon and eBay, or from specialty automotive shops.
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Where can I buy parts for my window motor replacement
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Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?
Where can I get my window motor replaced?
Finding a trustworthy mechanic for your power window repair just got much easier. With Jerry’s GarageGuard™, you can compare costs from 2,500+ vetted auto repair shops across the US.
Jerry’s GarageGuard™ gives you the rundown on real hourly rates from local shops, diagnostic fees (and whether they’re included in your service), and you can even check reviews from previous customers.
How will a mechanic replace my window motor?
These are the general steps a mechanic will take to replace a faulty car window motor:
- Inspection: Your mechanic will likely test your vehicle’s power windows to determine the potential culprit.
- Remove the door’s interior trim: To access some of your power window mechanisms, the mechanic will typically need to remove the door’s interior paneling.
- Remove the faulty window motor: If the mechanic determines the window motor to be faulty, they’ll remove the motor and/or window regulator assembly from the door.
- Install the new window motor: Once the bad motor is removed, the mechanic can install a new motor and any other necessary parts, then replace the interior door panel.
- Test run: Once installed, the mechanic can test your power windows to ensure they’re all working properly again.
What happens if I don’t replace my window motor?
If your window motor fails, you won’t be able to roll that window up and down until it’s replaced, which could become a major source of annoyance.
If your power window is stuck open, the interior of your vehicle will be more vulnerable to theft, water damage, or severe weather. When this is the case, you may need to carefully maneuver it back to a closed position.
What is a window motor?
A vehicle’s power window motor powers the mechanism that allows you to open and close your windows with the touch of a button.
Different vehicles may have slightly different mechanisms in place, but generally, your power window switch will activate an electric motor, which will power the regulator to move your window up or down.
When should I replace the window motor on my car?
The following symptoms can all point to power window motor problems:
- Power window won’t work at all: If your door window doesn’t move an inch when you press your window switch’s buttons, it’s possible the motor may not be functioning properly.
- Window rolls down more slowly: If one of your power windows is rolling down more slowly than it used to, a worn or failing window motor could be a possible culprit.
- Grinding or squeaking sounds: If your window makes grinding or squeaking noises, it’s possible your window motor could be on its way out.
How often should a window motor be replaced?
Window motors can certainly last the life of your vehicle, but just like any other car part, they can also fail prematurely. When window motors stop working, it’s often due to excess wear, electrical problems, or a buildup of excess dirt and debris.
If your window motor fails early, you’ll need to replace it to use your vehicle’s power window again.
Can I replace my window motor myself?
With the right tools, many drivers are capable of replacing a power window motor themselves—but it’s a job that should be done carefully since wrong steps could lead to a shattered window glass or other damaged parts.
Of course, some assemblies can be more complicated than others—if you don’t feel comfortable replacing a window motor yourself, a certified mechanic can do so for you.
FAQ
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Can I just replace a window motor?
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Can a window motor be fixed?
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What are the symptoms of a bad window motor?
John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John\\\\\\\’s work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more. Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.
Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit. Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.
Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who previously lead up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.
