2020 Audi A4 Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2020 Audi A4 Windows and Effective Fixes

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2020 Audi A4 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 2020 Audi A4 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 the door window motor fails, the window may not open or close, or it may operate intermittently. Traditionally, problems with power windows were caused by faulty switches or electrical wiring - especially the wires running between the door and the vehicle body that are subjected to repeated flexing. In these cases, the window might operate intermittently when the door is opened and closed. While this may still be the case on newer cars, it is increasingly common to find window motor problems that originate with a control module. Still, the switches and wiring should be checked thoroughly before replacing a window motor.

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 are the steps to diagnose a non-functioning window in a 2020 Audi A4?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in a 2020 Audi A4, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the window switch to ensure it is operational; if it works for other windows, you can rule it out as the issue. Next, inspect the fuse box for any blown fuses related to the window circuit, as replacing a blown fuse is a straightforward fix. If the switch and fuses are functioning, use a multimeter to test the window motor for power and ground; a lack of power may indicate wiring issues or a faulty motor. Additionally, examine the window regulator for any signs of damage, as a malfunctioning regulator can hinder window movement. Don’t forget to check for obstructions in the window track that could impede its operation, and ensure the window is properly aligned within the frame, as misalignment can cause it to get stuck. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the problem with your Audi A4's window.

What are the common problems that could cause the window of a 2020 Audi A4 to not go up or down?

When troubleshooting window issues in a 2020 Audi A4, it's important to recognize the common problems that may be affecting its operation. A faulty window regulator is often the primary reason for a window's failure to move, as it directly controls the window's up-and-down motion. Additionally, the window motor can also be a source of trouble; if it malfunctions, the window will not respond to the switch commands. Electrical issues, such as blown fuses or damaged wiring, can disrupt the power supply to the window system, making it essential to check these components for any signs of wear or damage. Furthermore, a malfunctioning window switch may fail to send the correct signals to the motor, complicating the situation further. In some instances, the window may come off its track, preventing it from moving smoothly, or the glass alignment within the door may be incorrect, which can also hinder its operation. By methodically examining these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the window problems in your Audi A4, restoring its functionality and ensuring a smooth driving experience.

How urgent is it to fix the window issue on a 2020 Audi A4 that won't go up or down?

When faced with a window that won't go up or down on your 2020 Audi A4, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. A malfunctioning window can significantly compromise your safety, especially in emergencies where quick access to the vehicle's interior is necessary. Additionally, an open window poses a security risk, making your car an easy target for theft or vandalism. Beyond safety and security, a stuck window can expose your vehicle's interior to harsh weather conditions, leading to potential damage and discomfort while driving. Furthermore, this issue may be indicative of broader electrical problems within your vehicle, which could escalate if not addressed promptly. Therefore, it is essential to take immediate action to resolve the window issue, ensuring your Audi A4 remains safe, secure, and fully functional.

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