Camaro and Firebird: Why Are My Power Windows Not Working?

This article applies to the Camaro and Firebird (1990-2015).

While power windows are a great feature to have in a car, they can be a bit of a headache when they’re malfunctioning. There are a number of reasons why they might stop working, too, from loose wires, to blown fuses, to dead motors and malfunctioning regulators; the list goes on and on.

Troubleshooting the reason why the power windows aren’t working is pretty straightforward—here’s how you can do it yourself before taking it to a shop (note: the first step is a generalized step that addresses the system as a whole, and the steps listed thereafter need to be addressed on a door by door basis).

Step 1 – Check for a blown fuse

If all the windows in your car stopped working at the same time, chances are there’s a total loss of power to the system. Since most systems use a single relay and power supply for power windows, the problem is likely a blown fuse or relay.

Specifically, you’re looking for damage to the component; anything that might look out of the ordinary (e.g. if the metal link inside the fuse is separated, it’s blown and needs to be replaced).

Depending on the year/model of your vehicle, it’s best to first reference the owner’s manual to locate the fuse for the power windows.

Step 2 – Check for damaged wiring

Remove the door panel and look for any wires that are arching off of the motor. Look closely around the motor for any that might be disconnected. Also, run your fingers along the wires to check for any damage to the wires. If you can’t see/feel anything immediately, put the keys in the ignition, hook up the window switch, and try opening it up to see if you can see/hear anything.

Step 3 – Check the power window motor

If the fuse, relay, and wires all check out, chances are the power window motor has gone. Try running the windows down again and listen for noise. A faint rumbling can suggest the motor is on its way out; no sound will probably mean the motor’s already gone.

Once you’ve gained access to the power window motor, use a digital voltmeter to see if power is reaching the motor.

Step 4 – Check the window regulator

If power is getting to the motor, but the window is still not functioning properly, access the regulator components to see if anything is jammed, worn, or otherwise broken. This includes the carriage, cable, track, and pulley. Inspect each element to determine the quality of the component. You may need to replace the carriage, cable, or pulley, and in the instance of the regulator track, it might need to be cleaned followed by an application of lube to ensure proper functioning.

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