If you own a Honda Accord, you know they rarely give any trouble. However, if you own a 2002 or older model, you've probably had the experience of hitting the power window button and getting a sluggish or non-existent reaction. Some power window problems are relatively easy to fix. A dead motor, the most common cause of failure, requires that you open the door panel and get your hands dirty.
Check the fuses and switches. Your owner's manual and fuse-box cover have fuse and switch diagrams. Look for the power window relay and power window motor labels. Tug out the fuse and check it for damage. Check the switches for deterioration or abnormalities. You can get a new fuse or switch at an auto parts store or super center and easily replace it.
Get out your tool box if you've eliminated fuses and switches as the cause of the problem. Now you have to remove the door panel to get a better look at your window's power source. For the driver's side and passenger-side doors, remove the door pad and inner moisture barrier. Use an upholstery-removal tool to help pry the panel off. The rear windows require that you remove the two center channel screws at the top of the door frame and two lower bolts in the bottom of the door. Check under the weather stripping if those bolts aren't evident.
Lower the window until the glass bolts are visible. Use the 10mm socket wrench to remove the bolts in the large and smaller access holes. Standing at an angle inside the door, tip the glass gently toward the outside of the door. Pull it out and set it in a secure place.
Access the regulator by removing the front channel and regulator mounting bolts. Older models have additional roller bolts.
Use a digital voltage meter to test regulator power before completely removing it. A reading of less than 12 means you have a wiring or switch problem. Recheck the fuses and switches. A reading of 12 means your wiring and switches are getting power to the motor, so the motor is inoperative for another reason.
Remove the motor and regulator. Wear protective gloves and keep your hands clear of the regulator gear spring. You can expect it to snap abruptly on removal.
Use oil to grease the roller guides and sliding surfaces of the regulator after removing all the parts. Confirm that the breather pipe is in position to keep water out of your new motor.
Advance the new regulator gear with your gloved hand. Use the collar and mounting bolt to secure the new motor in place. Replace the front door run channel.
Slide the window glass back into the door. Advance the regulator with the power window control in the door until the glass mounting bolt holes line up with the access holes. Replace the window mounting bolts.
Test for smooth operation of the window. The window should move up and down easily and form a tight seal when closed. Tighten or loosen window mounting bolts as needed.
Replace the liner and door panel. Dispose of the dead motor.
