2018 Chevrolet Traverse Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2018 Chevrolet Traverse Windows and Effective Fixes

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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 2018 Chevrolet Traverse 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 2018 Chevrolet Traverse 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 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the window switch, as a faulty switch is often the root of the problem. If the switch appears to be functioning, proceed to inspect the fuse box for any blown fuses that could disrupt power to the window. Next, test the window motor using a multimeter to ensure it is receiving power; if not, the motor may need replacement. If the motor is operational, examine the window regulator for any signs of damage, as a malfunctioning regulator can prevent the window from moving. Additionally, inspect the wiring connected to both the motor and regulator for any loose connections or damage that could affect functionality. Finally, consider the window control module, as issues with this component can also lead to window failure. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the issue, ensuring a thorough diagnosis of the window problem.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse to not go up or down?

When dealing with a window that won't go up or down in a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, 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 this component is damaged, the window may become stuck. Additionally, issues with the power window switch can arise, often due to electrical malfunctions or wear, preventing the window from responding to commands. Another potential issue is the window motor, which powers the regulator; if this motor fails, the window will not operate. It's also wise to check for a blown fuse in the vehicle's fuse box, as this can easily disrupt the window's functionality. Lastly, if the window has come off its track, it may not move smoothly or at all, which can occur from regular use or external force. By identifying and addressing these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot the window issue in your Traverse.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning window in my 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?

Addressing a malfunctioning window in your 2018 Chevrolet Traverse is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, safety is a primary concern; a window that does not operate correctly can obstruct your view, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, a malfunctioning window can leave your vehicle vulnerable to theft or unauthorized access, compromising your security. Promptly fixing the issue not only protects your belongings but also prevents further damage to the window mechanism, which could lead to more expensive repairs down the line. Furthermore, in extreme weather conditions, a faulty window can disrupt the climate control within your vehicle, causing discomfort for passengers and potentially damaging the interior. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize repairs to ensure the safety, security, and functionality of your Chevrolet Traverse.

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