How to Install a Car Window

A car's window consists of two main components. There is the window glass itself, but the glass is held into place by a regulator that controls the window as it is rolled up and down. To install a window into a car door, you need to get inside the door itself. Once you know the size glass and regulator for your car, remove the door's inner trim panel to install the window.

Instructions

1

Use window controls to move it all the way down. Disconnect the negative cable on the car battery, especially if the car uses power windows. Open the car door and roll down the window. Remove the weatherstrip from the door's window opening on the vehicle door by grabbing it at the end near the outer edge of the door.

2

Detach the door handle bezel and window crank from the door. Remove the screws attaching the handle bezel and pry it off with a screwdriver or other flat-bladed tool. If the car has a window crank, dislodge the crank's retaining clip by working a cloth behind it.

3

Unscrew all the retaining screws on the door's trim panel; some may be underneath small plastic panels or inside the space where the handle was. Lift the panel upward to release it from its retaining clips, pull it away from the door and unplug all electrical connectors attached to it. Peel away the water shield and remove any speakers on the door.

4

Install the window regulator by folding both sides together, sliding it up through the door, unfolding it and twisting it into place. If the regulator needs its motor installed, wiggle the motor onto the cable housing, put the fastener on and tighten the bolts. Bolt the regulator in place on the door.

5

Position the window glass above the door's window opening and carefully slide it down into the door. If it's possible, you could instead push the glass up through the bottom and then push it back down within the regulator. Bolt the glass into place within the window regulator.

6

Reassemble the door by reconnecting the speakers, water shield, trim panel, handle, window crank and weatherstrip. Use the car's window controls (manual or power) to test the window.