Help! My Car Window Won't Go Up!

Car window won't roll up? This is a frustrating problem. If your car is equipped with electric windows (as most vehicles today are), the malfunction is likely caused by faulty switches, wiring, or a motor gone awry. In this article, we walk you through DIY steps and quick fixes to try when your car power window won't go up, when to seek professional repair, and how to avoid future jams.

How to Fix a Stuck Car Window that Won’t Go Up

If your car window is stuck down, it could be due to a few different reasons, such as a blown fuse or a dying window motor. Follow these suggestions in order to try to fix the problem yourself.:

Check the Child Safety Lock

Check to see whether the child safety lock is on as this can keep the window from rolling up. If so, simply turn it off.

Check the Fuses

Use your vehicle owner's manual to locate the fuse box and the corresponding power fuse for the electric window that is stuck. Locate any blown fuses and replace them if necessary.

Reset Your Window Motor

Resetting your window motor might correct the problem of a power window that won’t go up. To reset your window's motor, try the ‘window relearn' process. First, find the switch for the malfunctioning window. Then, press and hold the switch in the ‘up' position for about ten seconds. After releasing it, immediately press and hold the switch in the ‘down' position for another ten seconds. This recalibrates the window motor and resets its position memory.

After completing this process, attempt to operate the window to see whether it will roll up.

Silicone Spray

When your car window is stuck down, applying a silicone lubricant to your power window tracks can sometimes get your power windows operating smoothly again.

Do the following:

Step 1. Clean the Window Tracks: Use a brush or compressed air to remove any dirt, debris, or grime from the window tracks. Clearing any obstructions will enhance the effects of your lubricant.

Step 2. Apply Silicone Spray: Spray directly onto the window tracks and any other moving parts. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding application and safety precautions.

Step 3. Operate the Window: After applying the spray, attempt to operate the window to see whether it's working properly.

The Palm Method

Sometimes physical force can free up an electric window that is stuck down. Try out this method as a quick fix for a power window that won’t roll up.

Step 1. Safety First - Wear protective gloves and eyewear before attempting this.

Step 2. Turn the Car On - Make sure the car ignition is set to the ‘on' position.

Step 3. Sandwich Glass - Open the car door and sandwich the window between the palms of your hands.

Step 4. Use Assistance - Have someone press and hold the window button.

Step 5. Lift the Window - Applying light pressure, press the window up with the palms of your hands. If you're gripping the window from the top for added force, be careful not to get your hands or fingers caught as it closes.

The Door Shut Method

A car window that won’t roll up might be caused by a misalignment or an obstruction. This method attempts to knock components back into alignment or dislodge obstructions.

Step 1. Turn the Car On - Make sure the car ignition is set to the on position.

Step 2. Press and Hold - Press the window switch up or down and make sure to keep the button depressed while completing the next step.

Step 3. Shut the Door - With the button held down, open and shut the car door firmly. Do not slam it hard as this can cause further damage. If the window does manage to roll up, do not lower it again until a professional evaluates it.

Do not try the door shut method more than once. If the first attempt did not work, then additional attempts are unlikely to work, either.

The Door Strike Method

The door strike method is used to dislodge a car window that is stuck down by giving the door a firm, but controlled, strike while also attempting to operate the window switch.

To properly carry out this technique you should:

Step 1. Position Yourself Properly: Sit in the seat closest to the malfunctioning window. Make sure that you have enough space to swing your arm comfortably.

Step 2. Strike the Door: Using the palm of your hand or a soft object, deliver a light strike to the interior door panel. Aim for the area around the window switch and the door latch.

Step 3. Simultaneously Operate the Window Switch: While hitting the door, hold down the window switch in the direction you want it to move. If the window starts to respond, hold the switch until it's all the way closed.

Do not attempt this method more than once.

Some power window issues are easier to repair than others. If you're unsure of your ability to properly perform any of the above suggestions, contact a trained service professional.

When To Call The Window Professionals for a Car Window That Won’t Go Up

If none of these methods work to get an electric window up when stuck, then you will need to contact a professional as it may be necessary to remove your entire door panel. Do not attempt this on your own as you risk your personal safety and causing further damage.

Also, keep in mind that some of the methods listed above are only temporary fixes. Proceed with caution and do not operate until it's properly evaluated by a professional.

Professional Car Window Repair and Replacement Services

Your local Glass Doctor^® will assess your power window problem to determine the best course of action for repair. Our procedures typically involve:

• First, we'll check to see whether your jammed power window is repairable. If the cause is a simple obstruction or a faulty cable-type regulator, your window may qualify for repair. Though, in most cases, power window regulators will require replacement.
• When glass replacement is necessary, our service professionals start by peeling back the window seal or vapor barrier to gain access to the internal window mechanisms.
• Next, we'll carefully remove your existing window and install a new one in its place.
• Once the fresh glass is firmly in place, our team will thoroughly test it with the power window regulator to verify smooth operation.
• Finally, we'll replace your window seal, vapor barrier, and any other components removed during installation, and send you on your way with a new, fully functioning window.

When you choose Glass Doctor for your car window repair or replacement needs, you can count on our service professionals for timely service and straightforward communication.

With over 270 North American locations, there's a good chance that there's a Glass Doctor near you; simply request a job estimate and we'll work with you to schedule a convenient appointment. Even better, we provide upfront fixed-rate pricing for all repairs and replacements; once we offer a final estimate, that's the price that you'll pay. No hidden fees or surprise charges.

Request an estimate or call us at to experience the Glass Doctor advantage for yourself!

How To Prevent Your Car Windows From Sticking

Here are some practices that can keep your power windows operating properly.

Keep Window Tracks Clean: Dirt and grime can accumulate in the window tracks over time, leading to potential jams. We recommend regularly cleaning your tracks with a soft brush to remove any buildup.

Lubricate: Periodically apply a silicone-based lubricant to the window tracks and seals to ensure smooth operation. Do not use petroleum-based products as these can damage rubber seals.

Replace Worn Weatherstripping: The weatherstripping around the edges of windows helps prevent debris from entering its tracks. If it's worn or damaged, replace it ASAP to maintain a proper seal.

Operate Windows Regularly: Infrequently used power windows can eventually become stiff. To prevent this, try to regularly operate all the windows in your car to keep the mechanisms moving smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Windows that Won’t Go Up:

Is it safe to drive while my power window won’t roll up?

When your window is stuck down, driving is possible, but not always ideal. Inclement weather, reduced security, and less efficient climate control are all issues when you can’t roll up your window. It’s advisable to use temporary window covering and schedule a repair as soon as possible.

How much should I expect to pay for a car window that won’t roll up?

Repair costs will vary depending on the cause and what is necessary to fix it. A fuse replacement may cost as little as $10, but replacing a motor or regulator could be several hundred dollars. Contact your local Glass Doctor for an estimate.

Will insurance cover the costs to fix a power window that’s stuck?

It depends on your provider and your coverage. If your policy contains comprehensive coverage, power window repair may be covered. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to find out what your policy covers.