Chevrolet Camaro 2010-2015: How to Replace Power Window Motor

Replacing a window regulator may not be as hard as you think. Here is how you replace it.

By Neftali Medina - March 8, 2016
Contributors: Bowtiev6

This article applies to the Chevrolet Camaro (2010-2015).

Functional power window options are a wonderful accessory to have an any vehicle, but when they fail, they can create a lot of headache. A power window uses a regulator to both raise and lower the glass window. When these units begin to fail, the speed at which the glass raises will begin to slow down, or even become stuck. When the regulator begins to either make a loud whirling noise or slow down, you should quickly replace the unit. This instruction explains how to quickly replace a damaged window regulator on your Camaro.

Chevrolet Camaro 2010-2015 How to Replace Power Window Motor

Materials Needed

  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Trim removal tool
  • Socket set
  • 3/8" ratchet

Owners with Camaros built before 2010 have to deal with the regulators that are riveted in place. However, new models use actual bolts instead, making this process a lot simpler.

Step 1 – Remove the door panel

Open your door up and locate the five screws that hold the door panel in place. There should be two screws on the bottom, one behind the handle, one in the middle and one towards the upper right. Use Figure 1 as a point of reference. With the screws removed, take the pry tool and move carefully around the panel popping it out of place.

  • Open the door handle to allow room to remove the panel.
  • Disconnect the driver's side mirror harness.
  • Disconnect the control panel harness.
  • Slide the door panel upwards carefully, so you don't ruin the clips.
Camaro door panel screws lcoation
Figure 1. The location of all of the door panel screws.

Step 2 – Remove the regulator

First remove the plastic film, or water deflector, from the door panel. Make sure you do it carefully to avoid ripping it. Remove the lower speaker to gain access to the regulator bolts.

The motor itself is held in place by four bolts; three of which are reached from inside the speaker opening. Prior to its removal, you must first disconnect the wire harness.

  • Locate the regulator wire harness and disconnect it from the motor.
  • Use your ratchet to remove all three, then locate and loosen the top mount bolt as well.
  • Remove the regulator from the door.
Camaro removing four regulator bolts
Figure 2. Remove the four regulator bolts.

Step 3 – Install the new regulator

  • Make sure the gear washer is in place and mount the regulator.
  • Tighten the bolts.
  • Connect the wire harness.
  • Test the window motor.
new window motor
Figure 3. Install the new window motor.

After testing, reinstall the water deflector, speaker cover and door panel, along with the switch and mirror harnesses.

Step 4 – Reprogram the window motor

The window motor has to be "normalized" in order for you to be able to use the express functions.

  • Turn the ignition to ON.
  • Lower the window and continue to press the button for another five seconds.
  • Bring the window back up and continue to hold it for another five seconds.
Normalizing window motor in Camaro
Figure 4. Normalize the window motor.

The window will now have its express up and down functions.

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