window troubles

[lil-blue-s10-dude]

Hey just got a 96 Grand AM GT. I rolled down the passengers side window and it won't go back up. I was told that it might be the thermo switch in the motor and I could solder the thing shut, I just wanna know if thats a good idea or should I just buy new motors. and if so how much would they cost. If you can help me in any way it is greatly thanked.

[cficare68]

I don't think you can buy just a motor for the window i think you have to replace the entire regulator.

[Ridenour]

If it's not the resistor or the window switch, then it's deffinately the motor. You will need to replace the motor and regulator (purchased together) - you should be able to find one at autozone for 40-ish dollars.

[19k40rocky]

Does window seem to go down like it is suppose to and then not go up at all? or does is seem to go up really slowly?

[yotatechie04]

I'm having similar problems with my '94. I can put the driver's side window down all the way, but when I got to put it back up, only one side goes all the way up and leaves a gap near the mirror. What causes this?

[19k40rocky]

Usually at the bottom side edges of the window there are molded plastic pieces that fit over the edge of the glass and snap together in a hole in the glass so the plastic piece stays in place. This plastic piece in turn, snaps into the window channels to keep the window moving up and down straight. After a while these plastic guides wear through and break, thus the window goes down usually pretty good, but gets alittle or alot cockeyed going back up. If it is just alittle cockeyed it can seem like the window motor is worn out, because the window is in a bind when the motor is trying to push it back up. In order to get to these you have to take the inside door panel off to access this stuff. The plastic guides can be obtained at your auto parts store. It is adviseable to take the old one with you when you go as there are lots of different styles. Hope this helps!

[yotatechie04]

Thanks, I'll have to check that out since I've got the door panel off anyway.

[skibum1111]

There are no guides attached to the window, but there are 2 guides inside the door, one in the front and one in the back. The back one is usually the one that breaks, I have had to replace mine twice in 5 years. It's held in place by a 10mm bolt at the bottom of the door, pull the bolt and reach in the door grab the guide and pull it down and out of the door. When you put it back in, make sure the window is all the way up and its seated in the front guide, otherwise you will break the rear guide the first time you open the window.

[lil-blue-s10-dude]

thanks guys ill have to try