Power Window Repair Cost

How Much Does Power Window Repair Cost?

Window Regulator: $100-$900+, Parts & Labor

Window Motor: $150-$900+, Parts & labor

Both Regulator and Motor: $150-$1,100+, Parts & Labor

On a vehicle with power windows, inside each door is a window regulator, the mechanical part that moves the window up and down, and a small electric window motor, which operates the regulator. If none of the power windows work, it could be a blown fuse or other problem in the vehicle's electrical system. If only one window is malfunctioning, the problem could be the regulator, the motor, or both.

Typical costs:

Opening up the door panel to diagnose the problem (and possibly simply clean out dirt and debris so a clogged window moves more freely) can cost $50-$200 or more, depending on local rates, the make and model of vehicle, and whether the work is done by an independent or chain repair shop, or a dealership (typically the most expensive).
For example, San Jose Auto Repair[1] in California estimates that opening and inspecting the door panel to diagnose the problem typically costs $49-$99; if additional repairs are needed, the diagnostic fee is applied toward the total cost.
Replacing a window regulator can cost $50-$550 for just the part, depending on make and model of vehicle , and whether the is produced by the vehicle manufacturer (called OEM) or another company (called aftermarket); 1.5-3 hours of labor at $50-$120 an hour brings the total up to $100-$900 or more, depending on local rates and the make and model of vehicle.
Replacing a window motor can cost $40-$300 for just the part, depending on make and model of vehicle and if the part is OEM or aftermarket; 1.5-3 hours of labor brings total costs to about $150-$900 or more.
If both the window regulator and motor are replaced (sometimes a good preventive move, even if only one is broken), the combined parts can cost $50-$850 or more, depending on make and model of vehicle and if the parts are OEM or aftermarket. For example, AutoPartsWarehouse charges $49-$107 for an aftermarket regulator and motor combination for a 2008 Honda Accord[2] . Labor of 1.5-3 hours brings total costs (parts and labor) to $150-$1,100.

What should be included:

Determining why a power window doesn't work and then replacing the regulator or window motor typically requires opening up the door panel, and removing the window glass. Mechanic Scotty Kilmer provides a video demonstration of removing a door panel[3] .
1A Auto Parts has a video series demonstrating how to replace a window regulator[4] depending on the year, make and model of vehicle, and whether it's a front or rear window.
AutoMD provides how-to instructions and a video demonstration[5] for replacing a power window motor.

Additional costs:

In many states there may be a core charge[6] of $20-$60 for the window motor; this is a recycling fee, similar to the fees on plastic bottles, and does not have to be paid (or will be refunded) if the old part is exchanged for the new one.

Discounts:

AutoMD estimates that do-it-yourself replacement of a window regulator[7] or window motor[8] each takes about 1.8 hours, while replacing both the window regulator and motor[9] takes about 2.1 hours. AutoMD rates all three projects as moderately complex; however, all three projects are rated as moderately complex. However, a Ford Expedition owner[10] reports being injured by the coil spring under the window motor, so read and follow all safety precautions carefully.

Shopping for power window repair:

A power window can be repaired by a car dealership, an independent repair shop, an automotive glass service, a car audio specialist (they're experienced at working inside car doors) or car-repair chains like Pep Boys[11] or Sears[12] . Both the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence[13] and the International Automotive Technicians Network[14] provide a searchable directory of repair shops.
Consumer Reports lists tips for finding a good mechanic[15] .

Post

Comments (13)

CostHelper News

7 Lesser-Known Discounts for the 50+ Crowd
As they age, members of the Baby Boomer generation don't like to admit that they're senior citizens, but they love getting discounts. It's kind of a quandary, because some of the best deals available are reduced prices for older folks. || Posted October 21 2013

7 Ways to Stretch Your Reduced Food Budget
End of the year budgets are tight for everyone, especially in this economy.It's especially hard for the millions of Americans who depend on government programs like food stamps to help make ends meet. || Posted November 11 2013



	‣ All CostHelper Blog Posts

What People Are Paying - Recent Comments

Front passenger power window

Amount: $800.00

Posted by: Lou Wallace in Overland Park, KS.	Posted: July 26th, 2020 09:07AM
Car Make: Nissan	Car Model: Rogue
Car Year: 2014	Which Window: Front passenger

This is the estimate given to me. Was told no re-manufactured ones available and my shop has to get it straight from Nissan