2016 Acura MDX Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2016 Acura MDX and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
36% chance it's the
Fuse, Relay or Electrical System
0%
20% chance it's the
Window Motor
0%
24% chance it's the
Window Regulator
0%
20% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Acura MDX window won't go up or down are window's electrical system such as a fuse or relay, a broken window motor, or a broken window regulator.
  • Fuse, Relay or Electrical System: A blown fuse or a faulty relay can disrupt the electrical circuit, causing components to fail or operate intermittently.
  • Window Motor: A faulty window motor or a broken window regulator can prevent the window from moving up or down properly.
  • Window Regulator: A faulty window regulator can cause the window to become stuck or operate erratically due to worn gears or a broken cable.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Acura MDX window won't go up or down?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If one of the windows in a vehicle will not open or close properly, a failing door window regulator might be the cause. A window that is moving intermittently, or one that gets stuck on the way up or down, could also indicate a broken regulator. Other symptoms might include a clicking, chattering, or grinding noise when the window moves. In some cases a severely damaged window regulator could cause the window to drop inside the door.

When a switch can not make contact and close the circuit, the window cannot be raised and lowered. If the switch on the driver's door will not raise or lower the window in question, but the switch on the corresponding door works just fine, this is a good indication that there is a switch failure. This works the other way around, as well. If the switch on the door does not cause the window to function, but the driver's switch does, that is an indication of a passenger door window switch failure.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

What steps should I take to diagnose the power window issue in my 2016 Acura MDX?

To effectively diagnose the power window issue in your 2016 Acura MDX, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuse associated with the power windows, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. If the fuse is intact, proceed to test the power window switch to ensure it is functioning correctly, as a faulty switch can often be the culprit. Next, inspect the wiring connected to the power window system for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for operation. If the wiring appears intact, examine the window regulator, which is responsible for the movement of the window; a malfunctioning regulator can prevent the window from operating smoothly. Additionally, check the window motor, as a defective motor can also lead to power window issues. Finally, ensure that the window glass is free from obstructions and properly aligned, as debris or misalignment can hinder its movement. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify the root cause of the power window problem and determine the appropriate repairs needed.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2016 Acura MDX to not go up or down?

When your 2016 Acura MDX window refuses to move, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue. One frequent culprit is electrical failure, often stemming from a blown fuse that disrupts the power supply to the window mechanism. Additionally, the window switch itself may be faulty, preventing the window from responding to your commands. If you've recently replaced or disconnected the 12-volt battery, it's important to note that the power windows might require you to hold the switch manually to close fully. Furthermore, malfunctions in components such as the Hall IC, wiring connections, or the power window control unit can also impede window operation. By identifying these potential issues, you can take the first steps toward resolving the window malfunction in your Acura MDX, making it a manageable DIY project.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning window in a 2016 Acura MDX?

Addressing a malfunctioning window in a 2016 Acura MDX is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, safety is a primary concern; a window that cannot open or close properly can obstruct visibility and ventilation, creating hazardous driving conditions. Additionally, a malfunctioning window compromises the vehicle's security, making it easier for thieves to gain access to the interior. Beyond immediate safety and security risks, neglecting to repair the window can lead to further damage to the window mechanism or surrounding components, which may result in more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the repair of a malfunctioning window to maintain the vehicle's safety, security, and overall functionality.

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2016 Acura MDX Window Issues: Causes & Repair Costs