2016 Chevrolet Cruze Window Won't Go Up Or Down

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

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 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 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 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.

How do I diagnose a window that won't go up or down in a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?

To effectively diagnose a window that won't go up or down in your 2016 Chevrolet Cruze, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex issues. Begin by checking the electrical system, as a blown fuse or a faulty relay can often be the culprit behind window malfunctions. If the electrical components are functioning properly, inspect the window motor, as a malfunctioning motor can lead to intermittent operation or complete failure. Next, examine the window regulator, which is responsible for the window's movement; a broken regulator can prevent the window from operating altogether. Additionally, test the window switch to ensure it is not faulty, as this can also hinder window functionality. If all else fails, consider resetting the window using a scan tool to clear any learned values that may be causing the issue. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the problem, ensuring your window operates smoothly once again.

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

When a window in a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze ceases to function, several common problems may be at play. One of the first areas to investigate is the electrical system, as issues like a blown fuse or a faulty relay can disrupt power to the window motor. If the electrical components are functioning correctly, the next step is to examine the window motor itself, which may have failed and requires replacement. Additionally, the window regulator, responsible for the movement of the window, can also malfunction, leading to operational difficulties. For those inclined to tackle the issue themselves, it is essential to systematically check these components, starting with the electrical connections and fuses, before moving on to the motor and regulator. This methodical approach can help identify the root cause of the window malfunction, allowing for effective DIY repairs.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning window in my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?

When dealing with a malfunctioning window in your 2016 Chevrolet Cruze, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. A stuck window, particularly if it remains open, poses significant safety concerns, as it compromises the security of your vehicle and its contents. Additionally, exposure to the elements can lead to interior damage, such as mold or electrical issues, which may escalate if left unaddressed. Furthermore, an open window increases the risk of theft or vandalism, making your vehicle an easy target for opportunistic criminals. If the malfunction stems from an electrical fault, it could signal deeper issues within your vehicle's electrical system, necessitating prompt attention to avoid further complications. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the inspection and repair of your window to safeguard your vehicle's integrity, security, and your peace of mind.

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2016 Chevrolet Cruze Window Won't Go Up Down: Causes & Costs