Window Regulator

Replacing a Window Regulator

The window regulator in your vehicle allows the window to move up and down with the help of a manual crank or power window motor. Window regulators also help guide your window through its full range of motion and keep the window even in the window channel. Window regulators come in a variety of designs, including scissor- and cable-style regulators that work with the power window motor or window crank gear to apply even force at both ends of the window. Window regulators can suffer damage in a collision, or may become worn with use and over time which can limit their ability to control the window. This can cause the window to raise or lower more slowly than it should, become crooked in the door or window track, bind, or fail to work at all. If the window regulator is damaged or severely worn, it may also fail to engage with the window motor at all, and this can cause the window to fall into the door. If you hear noise when operating your window, it can indicate a window regulator or power window motor failure, and both parts should be diagnosed to determine the source of the problem. To learn more about power window regulators and motors, you can also check out our article on the symptoms of bad power windows. For your next window repair, O'Reilly Auto Parts has a variety of replacement power window motors and regulators for most applications, and our parts professionals can help you find the best fit for your vehicle.