How to Troubleshoot the Power Windows on Vehicles

The Vehicles is a sporty midsize coupe that can provide you with countless hours of driving pleasure. Like any car, its windows can malfunction. If you run into a problem while rolling the windows up or down, you can troubleshoot the windows in your own driveway. You will need some specialized tools available from your local auto parts store. This is not a difficult procedure, and it will only take you an hour or two to complete.

Under The Hood:

• How to Troubleshoot the Power Windows on a 2003 Toyota Solara
• How to Troubleshoot Power Windows on a Ford F-250
• How to Troubleshoot the Power Windows on a Toyota Camry CE

 How to Troubleshoot the Power Windows on a 2003 Toyota Solara

Engage the ignition without starting the engine. Try to roll the windows up or down using the control switch. If they don't respond, inspect the fuse of the power window circuit. This can be found in the fuse panel box located on the driver's side dashboard.

Test the voltage of the main circuit relay with a test lamp -- if both windows are unresponsive. If the circuit relay is emitting voltage, then the wire responsible for sending power to the rest of the switches is probably shorted or open. If the relay is not emitting voltage, use the test lamp to make sure that voltage is reaching it. If it is receiving voltage but not sending out voltage, it is damaged and should be replaced. If no voltage reaches the relay, then a wire connecting the relay and the main fuse is shorted or open.

Inspect the fuse and circuit breaker -- if just one window is unresponsive. If you press the button to operate the window and the window does not move but you hear a humming sound, the gearbox or motor may be damaged. Remove the window from the regulator with a socket wrench set and move the window up and down with your hand to check the regulator mechanism. Check whether the mechanism can move freely. If it is still not working, the motor gearbox may be broken and will need to be inspected by a mechanic.

Engage the ignition without starting the engine -- if you checked the circuit breaker and did not hear a humming sound. Check the continuity of the master control lockout switch using a multi tester. If it has no continuity, replace the switch. A damaged lockout switch can cause problems with both rear windows.

Use a test lamp to detect voltage at the lockout switch by removing the trim panel from the window with a screwdriver.

 How to Troubleshoot Power Windows on a Ford F-250

Open the fuse panel under the steering column by pulling down on the cover.

Pull the fuse for the power windows; use the fuse diagram to locate the fuse if you are having trouble finding it. Use the fuse puller in the fuse panel to remove the fuse.

Check the metal strip inside the fuse. The strip should not be burned or broken in any way. If it is, replace this fuse with a working fuse of the same amperage.

Check the power-window lock on your Ford F250. The power-window lock is located by the power-window button on the door armrest. If this accidentally gets switched to "lock," you won't be able to raise or lower the window with the lock engaged.

Listen to the window motor. If the motor sounds strained, it probably is a good sign that the motor is failing and needs to be replaced.

 How to Troubleshoot the Power Windows on a Toyota Camry CE

Open the driver's side door of the Camry and locate the fuse panel to the left of the accelerator and brake pedals.

Remove the cover from the fuse panel and locate the "Window" fuse. Pull it out and install a replacement 15A fuse. If the power windows are still not working, you should check the electrical connector.

Remove the eight bolts along the edge of the inside door trim panel. Pry out the door handle cover and the armrest, if equipped, with a slotted screwdriver. Disconnect the door trim panel's electrical wiring connector and pull it off the door.

Locate the regulator at the center of the door. Pull on its electrical wiring connector. If it comes loose, securely plug it in and test the windows. If the windows are still malfunctioning, you will need to replace the regulator.

Remove the four bolts securing the regulator to the door, using a socket wrench. Pull the regulator off and install a replacement regulator. Reinstall the bolts. Reattach the door trim panel and its components.