8 Causes of Side Glass Not Working
When it comes to car maintenance, ensuring the proper functioning of side glass windows is not just a matter of convenience; it's a significant safety concern. Over the past decade, at least 25 children have died from injuries involving power windows in cars.
This stark statistic underscores the importance of being vigilant about the condition and operation of your vehicle. More importantly, it emphasizes the importance of proper side glass repair.
As we explore the eight common causes for side glass not working, from accidental engagement of the window lock button to wiring problems, it's crucial to remember that each issue, if not addressed, can pose a potential safety risk. For instance, a malfunctioning window could become a hazard in emergencies, hindering quick exits or potentially causing harm.
Accidental Engagement of Window Lock Button
One easy-to-overlook problem that can make your side glass windows seem inoperable is accidentally using the window lock button on your car door’s interior. A standard feature on almost all modern vehicles, this button prevents all windows in the car from going up or down. Unintentional engagement of this button happens more than you think, and though the solution is obvious — disengage the lock button—many people don’t think about this seemingly obvious issue.
Fuse Failure
Your car’s window regulators rely on a fuse to keep them working as they should. If this fuse blows, then the car’s windows won’t move. If you press the up/down button on your power windows and there is no movement or sound of the window motor attempting to move, then a blown fuse is likely.
Inclement Weather
Believe it or not, in some areas of the country, snow, ice, sleet, and freezing rain can cause windows to stick, making you think you need side glass repair. This is because the motor that moves the window along its track isn’t always strong enough to push through frozen moisture that accumulates during weather events.
Power Window Switch Failure
The switch operating your power windows is prone to failure since it naturally experiences wear and tear with every use (especially with frequent or aggressive use). The side glass repair needed in this case is the replacement of the power window switch, a relatively inexpensive fix that Caliber Auto Glass’ technicians can easily handle.
Door Damage
If you’ve been in a minor accident and your car sustained damage to its doors, your side glass windows may be misaligned and off track. See the pros at Caliber Collision to get your window operating once more.
Window Regulator Motor Failure
The motor that moves your window can go bad, failing to engage with the window regulator when you push the up/down button. One harbinger of motor failure is windows that move up and down more slowly than expected. Replacing the motor fixes the issue.
Problems with the Window’s Seals
If your side glass fails to move up and down as it should, a dirty, loose, or torn window seal may be at the root of the problem. This seal is vital to your windows’ operation since it keeps them adequately aligned when moving up and down. If it’s damaged or dirty, the window can become stuck. Cleaning the seal may help, but a replacement may be needed to set things right again if it's damaged.
Wiring Problems
Your power windows rely on wires to make all the necessary connections between the window motor and switch. Impacts can result in wiring problems. Your Caliber technician can remove the interior door panel and check for this issue if other potential causes of window failure are ruled out.
What is the Glass on the Side of the Car Called?
The glass on the side doors of your car is called side glass. Depending on its location, it could be called door glass, rear door glass, or quarter glass.
Can You Repair a Side Window on a Car?
For most of the common causes of mechanical side glass failure, repair is possible since mechanical problems are behind most power window issues. However, if side window glass is shattered, replacement is a necessity.
Can You Fix a Crack in a Car Window?
Fixing a crack in a car window is typically impossible due to the material these windows are made with—tempered glass. Rather than crack, this type of glass is meant to shatter into small pieces to protect vehicle passengers in the event of a collision.
How Do You Diagnose a Power Window Problem?
A visual inspection of your window may be all you need to diagnose your issue if the problem is a dirty or damaged seal. Otherwise, the mechanical expertise of the techs at Caliber Auto Glass may be required.
How Do I Know if My Window Switch or Motor is Bad?
Diagnosing a bad window switch or bad window motor is easiest handled by Caliber Auto Glass. Expertly trained technicians can get to the bottom of your window’s problem and recommend an action plan to get you back on the road.
Need Side Glass Repair?
If you're facing issues with your car's side glass not functioning properly, it's crucial to identify the root cause swiftly to ensure your vehicle remains safe and functional. Whether it's a simple fix like disengaging the window lock or a more complex issue like motor failure, understanding these common problems can save you time and hassle.
To efficiently address your car window issues, consider contacting Caliber Auto Glass. With a range of solutions for various side glass problems, our experienced technicians can provide the necessary repairs or guidance.
For your convenience, you can easily schedule an appointment or seek advice by calling their dedicated support team. They're available Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 7:30 PM CST and on weekends from 10 AM to 2 PM CST at 1-888-461-0010. Alternatively, you can make an online appointment to fit your schedule.
Don't let a malfunctioning car window disrupt your routine; contact Caliber Auto Glass for reliable and professional service.