Toyota Corolla Power Window Goes Down but Won’t Come Up – What’s Wrong?

Hi everyone,

The power window on my Corolla stopped working completely, and I’m not sure whether it’s the switch o r a blown fuse. I checked the fuse box, but everything looks okay.

Can anyone share tips on how to figure out if the switch o r motor needs replacing?

If your Corolla’s power window goes down but doesn’t go up, and you can hear the motor working, there are a few likely causes to consider:
1. Window Regulator Failure

Cause: The most common issue in this case is a faulty window regulator. The regulator is responsible for controlling the movement of the window. If it fails, the motor may still work, but the window won’t move up o r down properly.
Fix: The regulator may need to be replaced. You will likely need to remove the door panel to access and inspect the regulator for any broken cables o r gears.

2. Weak Motor o r Motor Gear Issues

Cause: Even if you can hear the motor running, it could be malfunctioning internally, o r the motor gears might be stripped. The motor may struggle to raise the window if the gears are damaged o r worn out.
Fix: If the motor sounds weak o r inconsistent, it may need to be replaced. You can also check the motor gears for any visible damage.

3. Window Misalignment o r Obstruction

Cause: Sometimes the window can become misaligned in the track, preventing it from going up even though the motor is working. There could also be an obstruction in the track preventing upward movement.
Fix: Inspect the window and tracks for any misalignment o r obstructions. If you notice any, you can try realigning the window o r removing the obstruction. Lubricating the tracks may also help.

4. Faulty Switch

Cause: If the switch isn’t working properly, it might fail to send the correct signal to the motor when trying to raise the window.
Fix: You can try using the switch from another window if your car has multiple switches to see if that resolves the issue. If the switch is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

5. Electrical Issue o r Wiring Problems

Cause: There could be an issue with the wiring o r electrical connections between the switch and the motor, preventing the motor from receiving the full signal when trying to raise the window.
Fix: Inspect the wiring and connections for any loose o r damaged wires. You can check the fuse as well, as a blown fuse may affect the window’s operation.

6. Sticking o r Faulty Window Tracks

Cause: Sometimes, a window can get stuck in the track due to friction o r dirt build-up, causing it to move only in one direction.
Fix: Clean the window tracks and apply some silicone-based lubricant to reduce friction.

Troubleshooting Steps:

Listen to the Motor: When raising the window, listen closely for any unusual noises o r inconsistencies in the motor’s sound.
Check the Regulator: Inspect the window regulator for broken cables o r components.
Inspect the Window Track: Look for any blockages o r signs of misalignment.
Try the Switch: Swap switches with another window if possible to see if that resolves the issue.
Check Electrical Connections: Look for any loose o r damaged wires o r fuses.