🔧 Rear Window Regulator - Replacement

The rear window regulator moves the glass up and down inside the door. If the window is stuck, slow, noisy, or falling inside the door, the regulator or cable assembly usually needs replacement.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 1.5-2.5 hours per side

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Disconnect the negative battery cable before removing the rear door panel. This prevents accidental window switch operation.
• Be careful with the window glass. It can drop suddenly when the regulator is removed.
• Use masking tape to hold the glass in place before disconnecting the regulator.
• Keep hands clear of the regulator tracks and scissor/cable mechanism.
• Replace regulators in pairs only if both rear windows are failing.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• 8mm socket
• Phillips screwdriver
• Trim clip tool
• Ratchet
• Extension bar
• Torque wrench
• Masking tape
• Pick tool
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear window regulator assembly - Qty: 1
• Rear door panel clip set - Qty: 1
• Door vapor barrier adhesive - Qty: 1
• Window regulator mounting bolts - Qty: 1 set

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground.
• Lower the affected rear window until the regulator bolts line up with the access holes, if possible.
• Turn the ignition off.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable.
• Have masking tape ready to secure the glass.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the rear door panel

• Use a trim clip tool to carefully pry off the door trim pieces.
• Use a Phillips screwdriver and 10mm socket to remove visible screws and fasteners.
• Lift the panel upward to release it from the door frame.
• Disconnect the electrical connectors from the switch panel.

Step 2: Remove the vapor barrier

• Peel back the inner plastic moisture barrier slowly.
• Use a pick tool if needed to start the edge without tearing it.
• Keep the adhesive clean so the barrier can be reused or resealed.

Step 3: Secure the glass

• Use masking tape to hold the window glass in the full-up position.
• Run the tape from the glass, over the top of the door frame, and back down to the outside of the door.
• Use several strips for extra support.

Step 4: Disconnect the glass from the regulator

• Use an 8mm socket to remove the regulator-to-glass fasteners through the access holes.
• Carefully separate the glass from the regulator clamps.
• Leave the glass taped in place.

Step 5: Remove the old regulator

• Use a 10mm socket and ratchet to remove the regulator mounting bolts.
• Disconnect the regulator motor electrical connector if equipped separately.
• Work the regulator assembly out through the large service opening in the door.

Step 6: Install the new regulator

• Position the new regulator inside the door.
• Start all mounting bolts by hand using a 10mm socket.
• Torque to 10 Nm (89 in-lbs)

Step 7: Attach the glass to the new regulator

• Align the glass with the regulator clamps.
• Install the glass fasteners using an 8mm socket.
• Torque to 10 Nm (89 in-lbs)
• Remove the masking tape only after the glass is fully secured.

Step 8: Test the window before reassembly

• Reconnect the battery temporarily.
• Use the window switch to move the glass up and down.
• Make sure the window travels smoothly and seals evenly.
• Disconnect the battery again before finishing the door.

Step 9: Reinstall the vapor barrier and door panel

• Press the vapor barrier back into place with its adhesive.
• Reconnect all electrical connectors.
• Hang the door panel on the top edge first, then press the clips into place.
• Reinstall all screws and trim pieces.

Step 10: Final test

• Reconnect the negative battery cable.
• Cycle the rear window several times.
• Check for binding, clicking, or air leaks around the glass.

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✅ After Repair

• Verify the window opens and closes smoothly.
• Check that the glass seats evenly at the top.
• Listen for abnormal motor noise.
• If the auto-up function is lost, reinitialize the window by holding the switch fully up for several seconds after closure.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $350-$650 per side (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $80-$180 per side (parts only)

You Save: $270-$470 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1.5-2.5 hours.

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🎯 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.