The powered windows in all Buick vehicles use electrically controlled motors to actuate lattice devices to raise and lower windows. Whether front seat or back seat, the mechanical installation in all Buicks is similar. When problems with the windows occur, keep in mind some important tips before making the effort to repair or replace different parts. Most importantly, remember the power window assembly is accessed by disassembling a portion or all of the door.
Anytime there's a problem with a vehicle's powered accessories, don't start removing screws and taking apart different pieces. Always begin with the fuse. Buicks have fuse boxes located under the dashboard on the driver's side. A removable panel reveals an array of colored plastic tabs stamped with different numbers (ranging from 5 to 300). Each one of these is a fuse controlling the circuit to different parts of the Buick's electrical systems. The inside of the fuse panel cover has a diagram explaining what each fuse controls. Remove the fuse for the power window and examine it. If the thin wire visible in the plastic is broken, you need a new fuse.
Another electrical component prone to fail is the actual switch used to actuate the window. Fortunately, these switches are easily accessible by removing the door handle. Underneath a few screws holding the door handle in place. Take out the screws and lift the handle up and off the door. There are wires connecting the switches to the door. The switch assembly, held in place by clips, and is snapped out and a new unit is then snapped into the door handle. The wires are not soldered and require no special tools to connect.
All the mechanical components for the power window are inside the door. Although not a complicated process, removing the door panel means making sure you find all the fasteners. When removing the door panel never force or try to make something move. If it's stuck you've missed a clip or a screw. Check again and free that part of the panel.
Inside the door are three mechanical components: the motor, a continuous threaded bolt and a lattice (scissor) device. The motor turns the bolt and the turning action lifts and lowers the lattice. Over time the bolt can become damaged, the motor can fail and the lattice assembly can go dry and need lubrication.
If the window is cracked or broken, replace it. Don't attempt glass repair on a moving window. Small cracks or chips can expand with constant raising and lowering. If the glass is damaged, call an auto glass company and have the window replaced.
