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Window Regulator Replacement Cost Estimate
Window Regulator Replacement Cost Estimate
Worried you might overpay for your window regulator replacement? Use Jerry’s GarageGuard™ to get a fair cost estimate for your window regulator replacement.
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John Davis
Expert Automotive Writer
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content
Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor
What's on this page?
- How much does it cost to replace a window regulator?
- Where can I get my window regulator replaced?
- How will a mechanic replace my window regulator?
- What happens if I don’t replace my window regulator?
- What is a window regulator?
- Can I replace my window regulator myself?
- FAQs
- Meet Our Experts
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How much does it cost to replace a window regulator?
The average cost of a window regulator replacement is about $200 to $350. This total cost includes $150 to $200 for parts and $100 to $150 for labor costs. Your own total repair cost to replace your window regulator will depend on your vehicle’s make and model.
How long does it take to replace a window regulator? It usually takes about two hours for a certified mechanic to replace a window regulator. The mechanic will typically inspect your power window mechanisms and then replace your window regulator if necessary.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
See fair price estimates for popular cars
What parts do I need for my window regulator replacement and how much do those parts cost?
These are some of the main replacement parts you may need if your window regulator isn’t working. Your mechanic can confirm what additional parts may be needed for your own window repair.
- Window regulator: Window regulators commonly cost $50 to $800 or more to replace, with prices varying depending on the type of regulator. Power window regulators, especially those that are sold with an electric window motor, are typically more expensive than those for manually operated windows.
- Window motor: Sometimes window motors are already included with a window regulator assembly, but it depends on your vehicle and the replacement part you choose. If both parts are damaged, you may need a window motor replacement at the same time. The cost of a power window motor alone can vary widely, with common prices ranging anywhere from $30 to $500.
Some popular window motor brands include Dorman, ACDelco, Cardone Industries and more. Among the many reputable window regulator brands are Dorman, ACDelco and VDO. You can purchase window motors and regulators from auto shops like AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts, from online retailers like Amazon and eBay, or from specialty automotive shops.
Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?
Choosing an OEM window regulator will ensure the replacement part is the proper fit for your vehicle. Aftermarket parts can sometimes be cheaper or of higher quality, but you’ll want to confirm the part in question is actually compatible with your vehicle before buying.
Where can I buy parts for my window regulator replacement?
Among the many reputable window regulator brands are Dorman, ACDelco and VDO. You can commonly find replacement car window regulators at auto parts stores like AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts. You can also order them online from websites such as Amazon and eBay. You may also be able to identify or purchase the regulator you need via a dealership or automotive repair shop.
Where can I get my window regulator replaced?
Finding a trustworthy mechanic to take care of your window repair doesn’t have to be so hard. Jerry's
GarageGuard™
will help you compare costs from 2,500+ vetted auto repair shops across the country.Jerry's GarageGuard™ lets you check real hourly rates from local shops, diagnostic fees (and whether they’re included in your service), and reviews from other customers.
Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.
174 Reviews
Yoo's Auto Service & Collision
189 W Duncannon Ave, Philadelphia, PA
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$100104 Reviews
Import Auto Service
6540 Edsall Rd, Springfield, VA
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$150113 Reviews
Honda of Fort Myers
3550 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, FL
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$119.75182 Reviews
Meineke Car Care Center 4128
2402 E Osborn Rd, Phoenix, AZ
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$0How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How will a mechanic replace my window regulator?
Changing a window regulator is a pretty straightforward job for an experienced mechanic. Here are the general steps a mechanic will take to replace a window regulator:
- Inspection: Your mechanic will test your vehicle’s windows and operating mechanisms to determine potential culprits for your window problem.
- Remove the regulator: If your mechanic determines your window regulator needs replacing, they’ll remove the faulty regulator from your vehicle’s door.
- Install the new window regulator: Next, the mechanic will install a new window regulator and/or window motor.
- Final test: Once installed, the mechanic will test your vehicle’s window to ensure the new regulator is working properly.
What happens if I don’t replace my window regulator?
A bad window regulator isn’t necessarily the most urgent car repair, but it can quickly become an annoyance. You may not be able to open or close your window until it’s replaced.
In some cases, if your window regulator won’t allow your vehicle’s window to stay up, the interior of your vehicle could be exposed to the elements during inclement weather.
What is a window regulator?
A window regulator is a mechanism that allows your car’s windows to move up and down—and keeps it in proper alignment when doing so. In vehicles with power windows, an electric motor will help what’s usually a cable-operated regulator lift the window or lower it down when you hit the power window switch.
On a vehicle with manual windows, you’ll likely have what’s called a scissor-type regulator inside the car door that will raise and lower the window while you crank it open or closed.
When should I replace the window regulator on my car?
These are some of the main signs you’ll notice when your vehicle’s window regulator needs to be replaced:
- Window won’t stay rolled up: If your window starts sliding down from a closed position without warning, it may be due to a failing window regulator.
- Window glass is crooked: Your window regulator helps keep your vehicle’s window properly aligned—so if it starts going slant, it may be a sign that it needs to be replaced.
- Strange noises: If you hear noises like grinding, squealing, or clicking when operating your vehicle’s windows, this may be a sign that the window regulator is failing.
How often should a window regulator be replaced?
You don’t have to worry about replacing a window regulator unless it’s stopped working. A window regulator could very well last the life of your vehicle, but just like any part, they sometimes fail early for various reasons.
Can I replace my window regulator myself?
In many cases, replacing a window regulator is a relatively straightforward job, but it does require some caution. You’ll need to remove your interior door panel to access the regulator, and you’ll need to handle the window carefully so you don’t accidentally shatter the glass.
If you don’t feel comfortable replacing a window regulator yourself, a certified mechanic can take care of this repair for you.
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FAQs
How much does it cost to replace a window regulator?
A window regulator repair cost can vary significantly from vehicle to vehicle. Typically, power window regulators that come with electric motors attached will be some of the more expensive options. Replacement window regulators can commonly cost anywhere from $50 to $800.
How do I know if my window regulator is bad?
A window that sits crooked, doesn’t stay open, is difficult to open and close, or is noisy when moving are all signs that could point to a failing window regulator. A certified mechanic can inspect your vehicle and determine whether your window problem is due to a bad regulator or something else.
Can I replace a window regulator myself?
Many drivers are able to replace window regulators by themselves—but you’ll need to be careful when doing so to avoid damaging your window.
If you don’t feel comfortable taking care of this replacement yourself, you can always visit a certified mechanic.
Meet Our Experts
John Davis
Car Expert
Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience
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
Car Expert
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
Car Expert
Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads 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.
*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.