2016 Audi A6 Quattro Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2016 Audi A6 Quattro Windows and Effective Repair Solutions

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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 2016 Audi A6 Quattro 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 Audi A6 Quattro 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 steps should I take to diagnose the window issue on my 2016 Audi A6 Quattro that won't go up or down?

To effectively diagnose the window issue on your 2016 Audi A6 Quattro, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by testing the window switch, as a malfunctioning switch is often the easiest fix and can prevent the window from operating. If the switch appears to be functioning, proceed to check the fuses associated with the power windows; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the window's operation. Next, examine the window regulator, which is crucial for the movement of the window; if it is damaged, it will need to be replaced. After that, test the window motor to ensure it is receiving power and functioning correctly, as a faulty motor can also be the culprit. Finally, inspect the wiring connected to both the window motor and regulator for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these issues can lead to window malfunctions. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the root cause of the window problem in your Audi A6 Quattro.

What are the common problems that could cause the window of a 2016 Audi A6 Quattro to stop going up or down?

When troubleshooting a window that has stopped functioning in a 2016 Audi A6 Quattro, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty window regulator, which is responsible for the movement of the window. If this component fails, the window may become stuck. Additionally, issues with the window motor can prevent the window from responding to the switch, leading to a complete lack of movement. Electrical problems, such as blown fuses or damaged wiring, can also disrupt the window's operation, so it's crucial to inspect these components thoroughly. A malfunctioning window switch may not send the correct signals to the motor, further complicating the issue. Moreover, alignment problems can cause the window to get off track, resulting in resistance that hinders its movement. Lastly, a damaged window regulator cable can lead to operational failures, making it necessary to check this part as well. By systematically examining these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and address the problem with your Audi's window.

How urgent is it to fix the non-functioning window in a 2016 Audi A6 Quattro?

Fixing a non-functioning window in your 2016 Audi A6 Quattro is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. A malfunctioning window can significantly compromise your safety by obstructing visibility and hindering quick exits during emergencies. Additionally, an improperly closing window leaves your vehicle vulnerable to theft and damage, as it can be an easy target for intruders. Beyond security concerns, a window that fails to operate can expose your car's interior to harsh weather conditions, leading to discomfort and potential damage from moisture or extreme temperatures. Lastly, neglecting this issue can adversely affect your vehicle's resale value, as prospective buyers may be deterred by visible defects. Therefore, addressing the malfunction promptly is crucial to ensure your safety, protect your investment, and maintain the overall condition of your Audi A6 Quattro.

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2016 Audi A6 Quattro Window Issues: Causes & Repairs