How to Replace the Rear Window Regulator on a 2018 Ford Expedition (Left or Right Rear)
Step-by-step rear door panel removal, glass support, parts list, tools needed, and safety tips
How to Replace the Rear Window Regulator on a 2018 Ford Expedition (Left or Right Rear)
Step-by-step rear door panel removal, glass support, parts list, tools needed, and safety tips


đź”§ Expedition - Rear Window Regulator Replacement
Replacing a rear window regulator on your Expedition means removing the rear door trim panel, supporting the glass, unbolting the regulator (and possibly the motor), then reinstalling and testing the window. The exact steps and parts vary slightly depending on which rear door and whether your replacement includes the motor.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 1.5-3.0 hours (per door)
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Wear safety glasses—door clips and the glass can break suddenly.
- Keep fingers clear of the regulator scissor/cable path.
- Support the window glass with tape before unbolting the regulator.
- Key off during disassembly; reconnect power only for controlled testing.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Trim removal tool set
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- 1/4" drive ratchet
- 3/8" drive ratchet
- Socket set (metric)
- Torx bit set (T20-T30)
- Painters tape (2" wide)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses
- Torque wrench (inch-lb and ft-lb)
🔩 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 with regulator)
- Rear door trim panel clips - Qty: 1 set (recommended)
- Butyl door vapor barrier adhesive - Qty: 1 (if barrier adhesive is damaged)
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park on level ground, ignition OFF, and open the rear door you’re working on.
- Have painters tape ready to hold the window glass up once it’s detached.
- Please confirm these so I can give the correct, door-specific steps and fastener locations:
- Question 1: Are you replacing the left rear or right rear regulator?
- Question 2: Is your replacement a regulator only (reusing the motor) or a regulator + motor assembly?
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
I can walk you through the exact procedure with the correct fastener locations and torque specs as soon as you answer the two questions above (left/right rear, and regulator-only vs regulator+motor).
âś… After Repair
- Once installed, verify smooth up/down movement and that auto-up (if equipped) works correctly.
- Confirm the window seals evenly at the top and doesn’t tilt forward/back.
- Listen for clicking/grinding (misrouted cable or loose fasteners).
đź’° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $450-$900 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $120-$350 (parts only)
You Save: $330-$550 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.
















