Auto Glass: 2001 Monte Carlo window switch, torx screws, phillips screws

Question
I believe the window switch is out on the driver's side of my 2001 Monte Carlo.  The window will go down but will only go up if I wiggle the switch and find the "sweet spot", which seems to be getting smaller.  I want to replace it, but I can't seem to figure out how to get the switch out.  I took out the 2 torx and 1 phillips screws that hold the plastic panel on the door pull out, but cannot get the panel over the switch off without it looking like I am going to break something.  Help!!

Answer
Hi Chris,

The failure you are experiencing is fairly common for this vintage of Monte Carlo.  

Your instincts are good.  You CANNOT remove the switch without taking off the door panel.  You already have the torx screws out so next remove the small phillips screws on the top edge of the panel.  

Next you'll need something like a stiff putty knife about 1 1/2 inches wide.  Insert the blade under the bottom back corner of the panel and pull the handle toward you.  This will release the first door panel fastener (small plastic bristles).  Proceed across the bottom and up the sides of the panel until all the fasteners are free, then lift the panel straight up to release the top edge of the panel from the door.

Next you will need to remove the wiring from the bottom of the window switch and lock switch.  A small, flat blade screw driver will help you to depress the wire connector locking tabs so you can remove the connectors from the switches.  GM has made these very awkward to reach.  I suggest you rotate the panel 180 degrees clockwise to more easily reach the connectors.

With the wire connectors loose, you an now pull the panel away from the door.  You will be able to see the window switch underneath the armrest of the door panel.  There is actually no need to remove the whole switch "bezel" in order to replace the switch.  Just look at the new switch and see how it "locks" into place so you can use a small tool to release the tabs holding in the old switch.

Hope this goes well for you.  Send me a follow up question if you have any trouble.

Ben  .... the power window guy