A damaged window regulator in your Subaru Forester can not only be a headache but also a security issue as you will be unable to properly secure your vehicle. If your regulator becomes damaged you should look to change the regulator as soon as possible. You can gain access to the regulator by removing the door panel. The process is fairly simple and can be completed in no time.
Open up the door which contains the damaged regulator. Locate the screws on the door panel which fixes it in place. Some of the screws may be covered by small plastic covers which you will need to pry off. Remove the screws with a phillips-head screwdriver and lift the panel away from the door.
Remove the screws which fix the door handle to the door. Pull the door hand away from the door. Unhook the door handle assembly rod which fixes the door handle in place. This will give you access to the window regulator.
Place a small block of wood underneath the access panel of the window to prevent the window pane from falling down and breaking. Unhook the electrical connector which joins the motor to the regulator. Use a wrench to remove the mounting bolts attached to the motor and pull it away from the regulator.
Use a hex wrench to remove the hex bolts which attach the window pane to the regulator. Remove the mounting bolts at the bottom of the regulator to disconnect it from the window assembly. Lift the regulator away from the Forester.
Reattach a new regulator and put the door assembly back together by following the removal steps in reverse.
