How to Replace Rear Window Regulator on a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee (Left or Right)
Step-by-step rear door panel removal, glass support tips, required tools/parts, and post-repair testing
How to Replace Rear Window Regulator on a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee (Left or Right)
Step-by-step rear door panel removal, glass support tips, required tools/parts, and post-repair testing


š§ Grand Cherokee - Rear Window Regulator Replacement
Replacing a rear window regulator means removing the rear door trim panel, securing the glass, swapping the regulator assembly, then reassembling and testing the window. The exact steps (and bolt locations) vary slightly by rear door side and whether your replacement includes the motor.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 1.5-3.0 hours (per door)
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Keep fingers clear of the window pinch area while testing.
- ā ļø Support the glass with painterās tape before unbolting the regulator.
- ā ļø Disconnect the negative battery cable if youāll unplug multiple door connectors.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Mechanic gloves
- Trim removal tool set
- Panel clip pliers
- Phillips screwdriver
- Torx T20 driver
- Torx T30 driver
- 7mm socket
- 10mm socket
- 1/4" ratchet
- 3/8" ratchet
- 6" socket extension
- Torque wrench (inch-pound)
- Torque wrench (ft-lb)
- Painterās tape (2" wide)
- Pick tool
š© 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)
- Door trim panel clips - Qty: 6-12 (as needed)
- Butyl tape for water shield - Qty: 1 (as needed)
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and keep the ignition OFF.
- Lower the rear window until you can access the glass-to-regulator clamps through the service holes (if it still moves).
- If the window is stuck up, youāll still be able to release the glass after the panel is off, but you must tape the glass securely.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Before I give you the exact bolt-by-bolt steps for your A4 rear door (with correct fastener locations), I need 2 quick details:
- Which rear door are you repairing: Rear Left (driver side) or Rear Right (passenger side)?
- Does your replacement come as a regulator with motor attached, or regulator only?
Reply with ārear left with motorā (or similar) and Iāll lay out the full procedure.
ā After Repair
- Cycle the window fully down/up several times and listen for clicking or binding.
- Verify the door lock, speaker, and window switch all work before reinstalling the last screws.
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $350-$750 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $80-$250 (parts only)
You Save: $270-$500 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.
šÆ 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.

















