What signals indicate that the window regulator has gone bad?

Power windows were once a feature reserved for luxury cars. However, they have become a common feature in many modern cars. Most cars, SUVs and trucks sold in the country are equipped with this feature that allows you to raise and lower any car door window at a push of a button or the flick of a switch. This makes raising and lowering car door windows a lot more convenient than the traditional manual cranking system. It can therefore be distressing when you experience power window failure. In many instances, the window regulators are the cause of the failure. We at Protech Auto Glass have provided window regulator replacements for many vehicle owners. Below we provide some answers to the question ‘how do you know if your window regulator is bad?’

The window regulator is the mechanism that enables the window to roll up and down. When the window regulator goes bad, you will need to invest in window regulator replacement in order to continue enjoying the power window feature in your vehicle. Understanding bad window regulator symptoms are the first step to getting the window regulator replaced on time and avoiding having windows that won’t roll up or down.

• You can hear a clicking or grinding noises when rolling the windows up or down

The window regulator is located in the car door. When the regulator goes bad you will hear a clicking or grinding noise when you roll the windows up or down. This is often a sign that the window has come off its track or that there is a buildup of dirt or debris or some other object lodged in the space between the motor and the window.

• Your window is off centre when you roll it up or down

If your window won’t stay centred or even falls back down when you roll it up, you most probably need to have your window regulator replaced. This is not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous. It will leave your car vulnerable to break-ins. The interior of your car will also be vulnerable to weather damage.

• Your window is too quick or sluggish

Another common sign that your window regulator needs to be replaced is a change in the speed of the window. If your window is rolling up and down slower or faster than normal, your window regulator is most likely malfunctioning. It is often a sign of electrical damage.

• The button or switch doesn’t work on the first try

How many times do you need to push the button or switch to get your window to roll up or down? If the window regulator isn’t responding on the first push, you may be dealing with the failure of the regulator.

If you notice any of the bad window regulator symptoms outlined above, be sure to get in touch with a professional to have your window regulator examined. The team at Protech Auto Glass are experienced at repairing and replacing window regulators in a wide variety of vehicles. You can rely on us to restore your vehicle’s power window capabilities.

What happens when a window regulator goes bad?

There are various reasons why window regulators fail.

• A broken regulator cable

This is one of the most common reasons for window regulator failure. The cable may be broken due to getting jammed in the door. When this happens, the power supply to the window regulator is interrupted and the regulator stops working altogether.

• Worn cables

Cables can become worn as a result of abuse or overuse. This is especially common for vehicles used in colder climates. The cables become frayed or freeze in the closed position in colder climates.

• Detachment of the cables

The cables may become detached as a result of wear and tear over time. The worn cables may detach as the window rolls up or down.

If you’re searching online for ‘how to tell if your window regulator is bad’ we hope we’ve answered your question. If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms outlined above, contact Protech Auto Glass. We provide professional auto window repair and replacement services. We’ll get your power window feature working in the shortest time possible.