Car window switch

How to detect the power window button failure

As a start, you need to switch on the ignition and press the power window button. You should hear peculiar clicks. Then you have to remove the panel on which the part is situated and try to close the corresponding contacts. Depending on what button position is simulated, the window should either lower or raise. If the window raiser operates, the button requires replacement.

If you have a multimeter, set it to the continuity test mode and connect one of the probes to the corresponding terminal on the button. Attach the second probe to the vehicle body. When you push the button, you will hear a sound if it is serviceable. You should see the wiring connection diagram in your car technical documents.

You may identify that the power window button requires to be inspected by the following symptoms:

• when switched on, the power window does not operate;
• the window starts moving in the opposite direction at the moment you release the button;
• activating the power window requires too much force;
• after pushing, the button does not return to its initial position;
• the power window on the passenger side only operates when activated from the driver's door.

Causes of the power window button failure

The component often fails because of the contact areas wear-out, or their current-conducting layer abrasion. Since this occurs by degrees, initially the power window can respond to pressing the button, however, for instance, only after pushing it with a very big effort. Eventually the contact disappears completely, and the power window button fails.

The habit of driving with an open window in rainy weather, as well as low quality of door or window seals, may result in the ingress of moisture and dirt inside the mechanism, which can lead to oxidation of the conductive tracks and sticking of the movable contacts.

The button clips may break off due to incorrect mounting or excessive effort when pressing the button. As a result, the part will be in a constantly activated position, which will cause an overload and even a burnout of the electric motor.

Frequent buttons malfunctions can occur due to the component low quality, manufacturing defect, in particular, poor contact soldering. The same consequences are caused by unqualified vehicle tuning, for instance, window tinting, because of which more effort is required to move them.

Replacement of the power window button

In some cases you can restore the component serviceability by cleaning the contacts. But in most cases, the switch is not repairable. You can easily replace it on your own. For this you have to perform the following procedure:

1. Disconnect the battery negative terminal.
2. Remove the door trim. For this purpose, you need to unscrew the fastening screws, remove the handle trim and the handle itself, as well as the door lock button.
3. Using a flathead screwdriver, release the clips of the button assembly.
4. Remove the power window button and install a new one in its place.
5. Reattach the trim, the handle, the door lock button, performing the steps in the reverse order.

On some vehicles, dismantling the switch is possible without demounting the trim. So before you start the replacement procedure, study the technical instructions specifically for your vehicle.