Almost all modern cars come equipped with power windows and power accessories like door locks and sunroof switches. This is great for convenience, but over time if dirt, dust and moisture is allowed to build up, the power switches for your windows and other parts can stop working, leaving you out of luck when it comes to opening the windows. And while the power switch is not always the reason for a nonfunctioning power window, you should start your troubleshooting by cleaning the switch with rubbing alcohol.
Remove the switch. Most power window switches on modern cars can simply be pried out with a thin tool like a flat head screwdriver. On some modes you can simply pull the switches out with your hand. Disconnect the wiring harness where it clips into the window switch, taking care not to damage any of the wires or connectors.
Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol and wet the entire surface of the electrical portion of the switch. Use a cotton swab to rub any dirt and dust off of the electrical contacts. Clean the electrical surfaces until they are free of built-up dust. If possible, spray an electrical contact cleaner on the electrical parts after you have cleaned them with the alcohol. The contact cleaner will reduce future buildup of dust.
Reinstall the switch in the reverse of removal. Plug the wiring harness back into the switch in the proper orientation. Test the switch before you reinstall it in the door panel or wherever it is installed to see if cleaning it fixed the problem. If your windows still won’t go up or down, the problem may be a bad switch, a power window motor or even a blown fuse.
