2016 Buick Verano Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2016 Buick Verano 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 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 2016 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 2016 Buick Verano?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in a 2016 Buick Verano, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex issues. Begin by testing the window switch, as a faulty switch can often be the culprit behind a window that won’t operate. If the switch appears to be functioning correctly, proceed to check the fuse box for any blown fuses related to the window system, as this is a common and easily fixable issue. If the fuses are intact, the next step is to examine the window motor, which is crucial for the window's movement; a malfunctioning motor may need replacement. Following this, assess the window regulator, as damage or wear in this component can also lead to window failure. Finally, inspect the wiring connected to both the window motor and switch for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for operation. By systematically following these steps, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue with your window.

What are the common causes for the power window malfunction in a 2016 Buick Verano?

When troubleshooting power window malfunctions in a 2016 Buick Verano, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise. A faulty window regulator is often the primary issue, as it directly controls the movement of the window. If the regulator fails, the window may become stuck or operate unevenly. Additionally, a defective window switch can hinder functionality, preventing the driver from controlling the window effectively. Electrical problems, such as blown fuses or damaged wiring, can also disrupt the power window system, leading to malfunctions. Another potential culprit is the window motor; if it fails, the window may not move at all or may operate sluggishly. Lastly, window misalignment can cause operational difficulties, making it hard to open or close the window smoothly. By identifying these common causes, Buick Verano owners can better diagnose and address power window issues, ensuring their vehicle's windows function properly.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window on a 2016 Buick Verano that won't go up or down?

When faced with a malfunctioning window on your 2016 Buick Verano, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. A window that won't go up or down can compromise your vehicle's security, making it an easy target for theft or vandalism. Additionally, if the window is stuck in an open position, it exposes the interior to harsh weather conditions, which can lead to costly damage over time. Safety is another significant concern; a window that obstructs visibility can hinder your ability to drive safely and may even block emergency exits, putting occupants at risk. Furthermore, neglecting the issue can exacerbate the problem, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs down the line. Therefore, addressing a malfunctioning window promptly is essential to maintain the security, safety, and overall integrity of your vehicle.

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