2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 Chevrolet Cruze Limited 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 Chevrolet Cruze Limited 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 the window malfunction in a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited?

To effectively diagnose a window malfunction in your 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex issues. Begin by checking the window switch, as a faulty switch can easily prevent the window from operating. If the switch appears to be functioning, proceed to inspect the fuse box for any blown fuses that may disrupt the window's operation. Next, examine the window motor, which is crucial for the window's movement; a malfunctioning motor will not respond to switch commands. If the motor is operational, assess the window regulator, as wear or damage here can also lead to issues. Additionally, inspect the wiring connected to the window components for any signs of damage or disconnection, as faulty wiring can hinder functionality. Finally, if all else checks out, test the window control module, which oversees the window system's operations. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the cause of the window malfunction, ensuring a thorough and effective DIY repair process.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited to stop working?

When dealing with a non-functioning window in a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited, 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 crucial for the window's movement; if it fails, the window may become stuck or unresponsive. Additionally, issues with the power window switch can arise, often due to electrical malfunctions or wear and tear, leading to a complete loss of control over the window. Another frequent issue is a blown fuse, which can interrupt the power supply to the window motor, making it impossible for the window to operate. If the window motor itself has failed, this will also prevent movement, as it is the component that powers the window's ascent and descent. Lastly, the window may come off its track, which can happen due to obstructions or damage, resulting in a lack of smooth operation. By identifying these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue with your window, saving time and money on repairs.

How urgent is it to fix the window issue on my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited that won't go up or down?

When faced with a window issue on your 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited that won't go up or down, it's crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. A malfunctioning window not only compromises your safety by limiting your ability to exit the vehicle quickly in emergencies, but it also affects your visibility while driving, which is essential for safe navigation on the road. Additionally, a window that cannot close properly exposes your car to potential theft and damage, as it makes it easier for intruders to access your belongings. Weather conditions further exacerbate the problem; rain or snow can seep into your vehicle, damaging the interior and electronics. Moreover, neglecting this issue can lead to more severe mechanical problems, resulting in costly repairs down the line. Therefore, addressing the window malfunction promptly is not just a matter of convenience but a necessary step to ensure your safety, security, and the longevity of your vehicle. Taking action now can save you from more significant headaches in the future, making it imperative to prioritize this repair.

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