Auto Glass: 2003 Expedition Driver Window, auto parts stores, knowledgable person

Question
Hey Ben!

So last night I was driving home my drive side window normally rolls up very slow and gets slower everytime. all the other windows roll up normal. Last night when rolling it up I heard a crack and the window go stuck I pulled it all the way up and it wouldn't stay up. Then I tried experimenting on what the problem was so i hit the roll down button and it fell all the way down and wont come up now. I am wondering what is the problem and simply how can I fix it. You seem like the most knowledgable person on here so please help me!!

Warmest regards, James  

Answer
Hi James,

The mechanism that moves the window up and down inside your door is called a "regulator".  In this case, it is a "cable style window regulator".  The "crack" you heard was the sound of one of the cables (the "up" cable) breaking out of its mounting point.  There is no way to fix this, it must be replaced.  

Ford will probably charge you about $360 to replace the regulator: maybe even more if they convince you to replace the window motor which you do not need.

There is a good aftermarket window regulator made by Dorman that will be considerably less expensive.  Go to "dormanproducts.com" and type in 740-178 in the box marked "keyword, phrase or part number".  You will get a picture of the part and some additional information that may be useful.  Most of the national auto parts stores will have this item in stock or will be able to get it fairly quickly.

I am sorry to say that replacing this window regulator on your Expedition is not a do-it-yourself job.  You definitely need to find someone with power window experience to make the repair.  This one is a challenge for even an experienced mechanic if doesn't do a lot of power window work.

Sorry I don't have better news for you.  Feel free to send a follow up question if you need anything else.

Ben ... the power window guy