QuestionI have a 2004 Toyota Highlander, the front passenger side window goes down, but dies when trying to put it back up. I have to wait a few minutes and then can try to finish putting it up. I think the motor has gone bad, do you think so as well? If so, where is the best place to buy another motor? And when I replace the motor, will I have to take both the motor and regulator out of the door panel?
AnswerHello John,
The symptoms you describe are very typical for a failing window motor.
You may have difficulty finding a replacement motor any where else but Toyota. Unless you absolutely must I recommend that you do not buy a "re-built" motor. My experience is that the failure rate is very high.
Below is an outline of the steps you will need to follow to replace the motor.
1. Remove the door panel.
2. Lower the glass until you can reach & remove the two bolts that hold the glass onto the window regulator.
3. Raise the glass all the way up and secure it with a wedge or a piece of tape.
4. Disconnect the power wires to the window motor.
5. Remove the bolts (usually six) that hold the regulator to the door.
6. Remove the regulator and motor from inside the door.
7. Place a clamp or locking pliers on the regulator so that it doesn't spring back up when you remove the motor.
8. Remove the old motor and install the new one.
9. Put everything back together.
Send me a follow up question if there is anything else I can do to help.
Ben ... the power window guy
