Auto Glass: 2002 Ford Explorer Drivers window, rubber mallet, electrical meter

Question
Our window's motor went out with the window all the way down. We've taken off the panel but can't get the glass back up. What do we do to get the glass back up so we can at least tape it in place?

Answer
Hi Darla,

You really haven't given me enough information to be sure of my answer.  You could have a bad switch, a stuck window motor, or a broken window regulator.  I'll do my best to give you some suggestions that deal with each case.


If the window went down normally and you don't hear any kind of noise from the motor when you press the switch, then it is most likely that you have a bad switch.  This is not uncommon for the 2002 Explorer.  You will need a test light or electrical meter to check if the switch is putting power out on the driver's window "up" wire. If you don't have this equipment, you'll probably have to go to a mechanic.


If you find that the switch is okay and if nothing in the cable system is broken and the motor just won't run, do the following.

1.  Start the engine with the vehicle in "Park."

2.  Re-connect the window switch and hold down the "up" button for the driver's window.

3.  Tap on the window motor with a rubber mallet or small hammer while holding the switch.



If you have a broken window regulator you will be able to hear the motor try to run, but it won't move the window because the cables are tangled up in the spool of the motor which prevents you from raising the window.

One way to overcome this is to cut the cables.  You need to be very, very careful that you are not cutting the vehicle's electrical wires.  If you go   http://www.dormanproducts.com   and type in product number "741-813" you will see a picture of the regulator.  That should give you a better idea of how the cables are arranged.  Of course you only want to pursue this method if the regulator is already broken.

Please note.  Don't use duct tape to hold your glass up!  It makes a mess that is very hard to remove when you finally get the window repaired.  Masking tape is best and it only takes one or two pieces over the top of the door to get the job done.

One final note.  Replacing this particular window regulator is not a "do it yourself" job.  It takes experience and tools that even the very mechanically inclined just don't have.

Let me know how else I can help.

Ben  .... the power window guy