Most automobiles with electric power windows use a motorized window regulator to move the pane of glass inside the vehicle's door. This motor can wear out from damage or age, and will require replacement. The average backyard mechanic can replace this motor in about thirty minutes.

Things You'll Need:

• Socket set
• Pliers
• Screwdrivers

• Step 1

  Remove the positive terminal bolt on the battery by turning it counterclockwise, then placing the terminal away from metal. This cuts power to the vehicle.

• Step 2

  Remove the power window switches by prying up one corner of the assembly, then pulling it free of the door panel. Some models will have screws that hold this assembly in, but most do not. Disconnect the switches from the car's wiring by pulling the plug from the rear of the assembly, or by pulling the adapter plugs apart.

• Step 3

  Remove the door panel by removing the screws on the interior door handle guard, turning them counterclockwise, then turning the arm rest bolts also counterclockwise. Pull the door panel from the pop rivets that hold it to the metal; starting at one corner of the panel, pull each rivet free until the panel is loose. Many plastic pop rivets become brittle after a few years of service, and will require replacement.

• Step 4

  Remove the motor by unplugging it from the car's wiring (adapter plug), then turning the mount bolts in a counterclockwise direction. Pull the motor straight out, away from the window regulator gears.

• Step 5

  Replace the motor by positioning it into the gears, then tightening the mount bolts in a clockwise direction. Reconnect the wiring plug.

• Step 6

  Replace the door panel by pressing it to the metal, then tapping at each pop rivet firmly, to seat it into the hole. Turn the door handle screws and arm rest bolts clockwise, until they are snug.

• Step 7

  Reconnect the power window switches by pressing the plug adapters together, then pressing the assembly into the door panel. Turn the screws clockwise, if applicable.

• Step 8

  Reconnect the positive terminal bolt on the battery by turning it clockwise