2016 Buick Enclave Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2016 Buick Enclave and How to Fix Them

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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 Buick Enclave 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 Buick Enclave 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 in my 2016 Buick Enclave?

To effectively diagnose a window issue in your 2016 Buick Enclave, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the window switch, as a malfunctioning switch is often the root cause of window problems. If the switch appears to be working, proceed to inspect the fuse box for any blown fuses related to the windows, replacing them with fuses of the same amperage if necessary. Next, listen for any sounds from the window motor when you press the switch; if the motor is running but the window remains stationary, it may indicate a motor failure. Following this, examine the window regulator, which is crucial for the window's movement; a damaged regulator will require replacement. Additionally, inspect the wiring connecting the switch to the motor and regulator for any signs of wear or loose connections. Finally, check the window's alignment, as misalignment can prevent proper operation. By systematically following these steps, you can accurately diagnose the issue and determine the appropriate repairs needed for your vehicle's window system.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2016 Buick Enclave to stop functioning?

When dealing with a non-functioning window in a 2016 Buick Enclave, it's essential to understand the 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 or unresponsive. Additionally, issues with the window motor can prevent the window from operating; if the motor is defective, it won't respond to commands from the window switch. Electrical problems, such as a blown fuse or damaged wiring, can also disrupt the window's functionality, making it crucial to inspect these elements. Furthermore, a malfunctioning window switch may fail to send the correct signals to the motor, leading to operational issues. Lastly, alignment problems can cause the window to get stuck or not move smoothly, indicating that it may be off track. By systematically checking these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the window malfunction in your Buick Enclave.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning window in a 2016 Buick Enclave?

Addressing a malfunctioning window in your 2016 Buick Enclave is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety and security concern that requires immediate attention. A window that fails to operate properly can obstruct your visibility, making it difficult to navigate safely and potentially hindering your ability to exit the vehicle in an emergency. Furthermore, a malfunctioning window can leave your vehicle vulnerable to theft or unauthorized access, compromising your belongings and personal safety. Timely repairs can also prevent further damage to the window mechanism, which could lead to more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Additionally, the inability to open or close the window can create discomfort and inconvenience, especially during varying weather conditions or when you need to communicate with others outside the vehicle. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the repair of a malfunctioning window to maintain the overall safety, security, and functionality of your Buick Enclave.

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