How to Change a Car Window

A car window has two main components: the window glass itself and a regulator, which works with the hand crank or power motor to control its up and down movement. Changing a window can involve replacing the glass if it is cracked or broken, or the regulator, if the window won't roll down properly. The exact method of changing a window can differ, depending on the model and year of the vehicle.

Instructions

Window Removal

1

Detach the window controls from the car door's inner trim panel. For a manual handle, use a hooked tool or rub a towel behind the handle to loosen its clip. For power controls, pry the controls off with a trim stick and disconnect the electrical connector.

2

Remove the inner trim panel by removing all its screws with a screwdriver, prying it off the clips along the edges with the trim stick and lifting it off.

3

Peel away the plastic water shield that blocks access to the inner door.

4

Roll the window down, so that the mounting bolts for the window glass and regulator are accessible through the holes in the door. You might need to reconnect the controls to do this.

5

Disconnect the window glass from the door by using a wrench on its bolts, them tilt and lift the glass out of the opening in the top of the door. On some vehicles you'll remove the bolts, while on others you can only loosen them.

6

Remove the window regulator if it needs replacing--remove its mounting bolts, then collapse the regulator by hand and remove it through the access hole in the door. You might also need to disconnect an electrical connector to the motor, if present.

Window Installation

7

Install the window regulator, if needed, by inserting it into the door through the hole, bolting it in place and connecting the motor.

8

Slide the replacement glass down into the door until it is in place within the regulator, then secure it with its bolts.

9

Stick the water shield back onto the door and reconnect the trim panel with its clips and screws, including the window controls.