Auto Glass: Window wont go up but sounds like it has power, cable failure, auto parts stores

Question
Yesterday my wife closed the door to our 2003 honda civic and the window just fell straight down fast. Now the window will not go back up, I can hear as if the motor is working but when I press the button to power it up nothing happens. Also I noticed that the door panel is not completely on right I can put a finger in between the panel and the door. Any ideas as to what might be wrong, and is it an easy fix or do I need to take it to a repair shop?

Answer
Hello Miguel,

I am going to assume that your Civic is a 4 door.  If it is a two door, please let me know.

The mechanism that moves the window up and down is called a "window regulator."  In this case, it is a "cable style" window regulator.  One cable pulls the window up and another cable pulls it down.  Both cables are wound around a spool that is driven by the motor.  

From the information you have given me it sounds as though the mechanism has had a cable failure.  Typically the "up" cable comes loose and allows the window to fall down.  This is not the only problem that could explain what you have described, but it is certainly the failure that occurs most often.

These mechanisms are not repairable.  They must be replaced.  A Honda part will be more expensive than one made by someone else.  If you decide to use an "aftermarket" window regulator, I recommend that you get one made by Dorman.  Most larger auto parts stores have access to that brand.  Be aware that some of the inexpensive stuff you find on the internet is not very reliable.

If you are very mechanically inclined and have a reasonable tool selection this repair is not that difficult even if you have never done one before.  If your mechanical experience is limited I suggest you shop around for a mechanic or glass shop that regularly works on power windows.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Ben ... the power window guy.