2012 Buick Verano Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2012 Buick Verano and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2012 Buick Verano 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 2012 Buick Verano 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 2012 Buick Verano?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in a 2012 Buick Verano, it is essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest potential issues before progressing to more complex ones. Start by testing the window switch, as this is often the most straightforward problem to identify and rectify. If the switch is operational, the next step is to check the fuse box for any blown fuses associated with the window system, replacing any that are faulty. Following this, examine the window motor to confirm it is receiving power; if it is not functioning, it may need to be replaced. Afterward, inspect the window regulator for any signs of damage or wear, as a defective regulator can prevent the window from operating correctly. Lastly, check the wiring connected to both the window motor and switch for any signs of damage or loose connections, making necessary repairs. By systematically addressing these components, you can efficiently diagnose and resolve the issue with your window, facilitating a smoother repair process.

What are the common problems that could cause the windows to stop functioning in a 2012 Buick Verano?

When dealing with non-functioning windows in a 2012 Buick Verano, it's essential to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty window regulator, which can hinder the window's ability to move up or down. Additionally, a defective window switch can disrupt the control mechanism, making it impossible to operate the window. Another frequent issue is a blown fuse, which can cut off the power supply to the window system entirely. If the window motor fails, it will not respond to commands from the switch, leading to a complete lack of movement. Lastly, if the window has come off its track, it can cause significant operational issues, preventing the window from functioning smoothly. By identifying these potential problems, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and address the issues, restoring functionality to their vehicle's windows.

How urgent is it to repair the malfunctioning window in a 2012 Buick Verano?

When faced with a malfunctioning window in your 2012 Buick Verano, addressing the issue promptly is crucial to avoid safety risks and further damage. A window that is stuck or operates erratically can compromise your visibility while driving, posing a significant hazard on the road. Additionally, if the window is stuck in an open position, it can expose your vehicle to theft or vandalism, increasing your security concerns. The underlying causes of window malfunctions can range from a simple blown fuse to more complex issues like a faulty window motor or regulator. Neglecting these symptoms not only leads to inconvenience but can also escalate the problem, resulting in more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is advisable to inspect the window system as soon as possible, either through a DIY approach or by consulting a professional, to ensure your vehicle remains safe and functional.

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