How to Replace the Rear Window Regulator on a 2020 Hyundai Tucson
Step-by-step rear door panel removal, tools/parts list, safety tips, and post-install window testing
How to Replace the Rear Window Regulator on a 2020 Hyundai Tucson
Step-by-step rear door panel removal, tools/parts list, safety tips, and post-install window testing


🔧 Tucson - Rear Window Regulator Replacement
On your Tucson, the rear window regulator is the cable-and-track assembly inside the rear door that raises/lowers the glass. Replacing it requires removing the rear door panel, supporting the glass, unbolting the regulator, and installing the new unit.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 1.5-3.0 hours (per door)
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Keep fingers clear of the regulator and glass while powered.
- ⚠️ Support the window glass before unbolting the regulator, or the glass can drop suddenly.
- ⚠️ Disconnect the negative battery cable if you’ll unplug door wiring (prevents accidental airbag/electrical issues).
- ⚠️ Use painter’s tape to secure the glass to the door frame to prevent cracking.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 12mm socket
- 1/4" ratchet
- 3/8" ratchet
- 3" extension
- Phillips #2 screwdriver
- Trim removal tool set
- Pick tool
- Needle-nose pliers
- Painters tape (1.5")
- Torque wrench (5–60 Nm range)
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Rear window regulator - Qty: 1
- Rear window regulator motor - Qty: 1 (only if not included)
- Rear door trim panel clips - Qty: 6-10 (as needed)
- Butyl adhesive strip (water shield adhesive) - Qty: 1 (as needed)
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and open the rear door fully.
- Have a clean table ready for screws and clips.
- Two quick questions so I give the exact correct steps and fastener locations:
- ❓ Which rear door is it: left (driver-side rear) or right (passenger-side rear)?
- ❓ Are you replacing the regulator only (reusing the motor) or a regulator + motor assembly?
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Answer the two questions above and I’ll post the full, door-side-specific procedure with the correct connector points and the correct tightening specs for the regulator/motor/glass clamp fasteners on your Tucson.
✅ After Repair
- Cycle the window fully down/up 5–10 times to confirm smooth travel and no clicking.
- Confirm the glass seals evenly at the top and doesn’t tilt forward/back.
- Verify the door lock, speaker, and handle functions before snapping the panel fully back on.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $350-$750 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $90-$280 (parts only)
You Save: $260-$470 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1.5-3.0 hours.
🎯 Ready to get started?
HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.















