A window regulator is a mechanical device that rolls a vehicle's window up and down. A regulator can be manual (operated by turning a crank) or powered (attached to an electric window motor). With power windows, If none of them work, it could be a blown fuse or other problem in the vehicle's electrical system. If only one power window is malfunctioning, the problem could be the regulator, the motor, or both, and the only way to know for sure which has failed is to open up the door panel and look.
Typical costs:
A window regulator can cost $40-$300 for just the part, depending on the make and model of vehicle, and whether the product is produced by the vehicle manufacturer (called OEM) or by another company (called aftermarket, and typically less expensive). For example, AutoPartsWarehouse sells window regulators for a 2008 Ford Focus S[1] for $43-$63, depending on if it's for a front or rear window; or for a 2008 Lexus LS460[2] for $112-$184.
It typically takes 1.5-3 hours at $50-$120 an hour for a mechanic to install a window regulator, depending on whether the work is done by an independent or chain repair shop, or at a dealership (typically the most expensive). This makes typical total costs (parts and labor) of about $125-$600 or more. For example, San Jose Auto Repair[3] in California estimates average costs of $49-$99 for diagnosis (this fee is applied toward the total repair costs) and $169-$259 to replace a window regulator on most vehicles. RepairPal[4] estimates average costs in Trenton, NJ at $169-$258 parts and $176-$225 labor ($345-$483 total) for a 2008 Honda Accord; and $130-$161 parts and $167-$213 labor ($297-$374 total) for a front window or $130-$161 parts and $186-$237 labor ($316-$398) for a rear window regulator on a 2008 Lexus LS450.
There are two basic styles of window regulators: scissor or cable. The scissor type of regulator is relatively simple mechanically, with few parts to breaks (although there are wheels that wear out eventually; a cable type regulator takes up far less space inside the door, but has more moving parts. 1A Auto Parts provides an overview of window regulators[5] .
Replacing a window regulator assembly requires taking off the door panel, removing the window, removing the regulator, installing the new part and then reversing the procedure to reassemble the door. Parts supplier Bavarian Autosport has a video demonstration[6] of replacing a door regulator on a BMW.
Discounts:
AutoMD estimates that a do-it-yourself window regulator replacement[7] takes about 1.8 hours and is of moderate complexity.
Shopping for window regulator replacement:
The first step is to determine if the window regulator needs replacing, or if there is a blown fuse or other electrical problem, or if the window track is simply dirty and therefore sticking. Popular Mechanics lists troubleshooting tips[8] .
A window regulator can be replaced 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[9] or Sears[10] . Both the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence[11] and the International Automotive Technicians Network[12] provide a searchable directory of repair shops.
Consumer Reports lists tips for finding a good mechanic[13] .
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Both windows running slow so I bought both drivers and front passenger together(cheaper for pair)on line $47 parts + $7 shipping + $6 tax. Shopped auto glass shops on line for labor quote with parts provided. $90 labor per side + $90 labor + $18 tax = $258 / 2 = $129 per side. Note U-tube video shows it takes 15-20 minutes per window so ignore those 2 to 3 hour quotes.
I watched several videos online on how to replace the window regulator for my make and model. My DIY repair was in two parts because I removed the old regulator before ordering a new one. Removing the old one took 30 minutes. Installing the new one also took 30 minutes. The Honda dealer would have charged me $500. I bought my part online from 1AAuto after checking the cost of the part at my Honda dealer ($135.00). This was a simple and much less expensive route. If you are weary about attempting this yourself, I am a 54 year old female software engineer with no experience in car repairs. If I can do it, so can you.
I ordered a new regulator with motor assembly online to do the repair myself. I watched the repair on YouTube and completed the job in about an hour. Prying the door panel off is the toughest part of the job.
Do most repairs myself since late 70's A friend needed a window regulator I was happy to help her out This was a first for me to replace this part but found it pretty simple to do took almost 2hours from start to finish
Took 2 hours to replace and I'm a female...replaced in 2007 after I was quoted a price of $400 to repair so this is the 2nd time...plastic part inside broke both times. Well worth it to do it yourself.
Never tried anything like this before took an hour would have been easier if I knew how to remove clips on controls going in. Dealer wanted $580 ($400 for the part) Makes me wonder how many times they ripped me off.
I installed a power window regulator in my Trailblazer SS 2008. The part cost $60 and took me 12 mins to install. These quotes are not accurate by any means. The job is very simple no matter what vehicle. Save the money and do it yourself.
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