Resources
Window Regulator Replacement
Before you get started, you’ll want to gather the following tools:
- A plastic pry tool
- Screwdrivers
- Silicone spray
- Lithium grease
- Painters/masking tape
- Sockets/wrenches
- Ziploc bags (to store removed bolts/screws)
For older model cars you may also need:
- Chisel
- Hammer
- Drill
Step 1 – Removing The Trim And Interior Panel
Before removing any panels, we recommend disconnecting the negative (-) battery terminal for your own safety.
- To start, you will need to locate the hidden screws (see fig 1.1) holding your interior trim panel in place. Your specific service manual or shop manual can help you locate these screws. Generally, the window/lock controls will need to be gently pried out to reveal screws, as well as areas near the bottom of the door.
- With all the hidden screws removed, it is now time to remove the trim panel. Start by taking your plastic pry tool along the bottom of the door to begin popping the trim panel out of place (see fig 1.2). The panel should pop out (think of it as taking the lid off Tupperware) after you have made your way around the entire door. If any sections do not come free, it may be possible that a hidden screw is still holding the panel to the door.
- With the trim panel removed, you should see material between where the trim panel was and where the door panel is (see fig 1.3). This material acts as a water and sound barrier to the elements and should be preserved in its original state. Take care not to damage this section.
Step 2 – Removing The Window Regulator
If you haven’t already done so, secure the window glass to the door with masking tape (start on the glass, running strips up and over the door frame) so that when the regulator is removed, the glass doesn’t get damaged. Depending on the age of your vehicle, the regulator will be fastened by either bolts or rivets. To remove rivets, use a hammer and chisel to remove the rivet heads, and then drill out the centre of the rivets.
- If your regulator is bolted in, use the appropriate tools to remove all the connecting bolts (see fig 2.1) from your door.
- During this process, you may need to move the window glass up or down to gain access to bolts or rivets. Take care not to damage the window glass.
- With all the bolts/rivets removed, disconnect the regulator plug (see fig 2.2) from its motor and remove the regulator from the door.
- At this point, it is a good idea to inspect any weather stripping, seals or seams (see fig 2.3) in the window operation. Replace any seals as needed, and use the silicone spray to lubricate the windows run channels.
Step 3 – Installing The New Window Regulator
Installation is essentially removal in reverse, so if you’ve been carefully following the steps so far installation will be easy.
- Begin by moving the new regulator into place, and secure with proper bolts.
- Line up the window glass and regulator and ensure all contact points match up (see fig 3.1). Attach the window glass to the regulator.
- Re-connect the regulator plug to the motor (see fig 3.2) and test the window. The window should function normally.
- If your window is not functioning normally or working in reverse you may either need to remove or connect the supplied adaptor plug (see fig 3.3). Note: the adaptor plug is commonly required with WR841645, WR841646, WR841647 model regulators.
- With the adaptor plug either removed or connected (see fig 3.4) re-test the window to ensure it is functioning as expected.
- With the new regulator installed and functionality restored, begin reassembling the door with the weather/sound barrier.
- Snap the trim panel back into place as appropriate. Snap any other removed components back into place (see fig 3.5).
