Power windows are a convenience feature for lots of vehicles on the road today, and when they go out, it can be pretty inconvenient. Time was, replacing a window regulator was a real pain, but on the 1999-2006 Silverado, the process has become a lot easier. Now, the regulator is on a cable system, and can be pulled out of the door in minutes. In this case, the project vehicle is a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, but the process is similar for other vehicles.
Place the flathead screwdriver between the lock button and the door panel, then twist the screwdriver to pop out the door lock trim. Repeat this process for the trim around the interior pull handle and the power window switch panel. Unplug the power window switch panel, using your hands.
Unbolt the door panel from the door, using the 1/4-inch ratchet and socket set. The bolts are in the corner near the armrest, and behind the door lock. Then pull off the interior mirror trim piece with your hands.
Push the door panel up towards the headliner, using your hands, and then pull the door panel off of the door.
Plug the power window switch back into the harness on the door and roll down the window to the halfway point. There are two clamps on the window channels that hold the window in place. Unbolt them, using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket, then tilt the back of the window up towards the front of the vehicle and pull the glass out of the door towards the interior, using your hands.
Unbolt the bolts that secure the window channels to the door, using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Then unbolt the window regulator motor from the door. Unplug the power window regulator motor harness from the door as well. Fold the channels together so that the channels, cables and window regulator motor can fit through the access panel, and pull out the assembly.
Slide the replacement power window assembly into the door panel and bolt it in place, using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Reinstall the glass in the reverse order of removal, and tighten it down to the regulator, using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket.
Plug the wiring harness back into the switch panel and test the window's up and down movement. If it binds in any way, adjust the window, or consider reinstalling the assembly, as the cables may be twisted.
Reassemble the door panel in the reverse order of disassembly.
