2012 Dodge Challenger Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2012 Dodge Challenger Windows and Effective Repair Solutions

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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 2012 Dodge Challenger 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 Dodge Challenger 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 Dodge Challenger?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in your 2012 Dodge Challenger, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the door module for any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) using a scan tool, as this can reveal underlying electronic issues that may be affecting window operation. If the scan indicates no significant problems, inspect the fuses and relays associated with the window mechanism, as a blown fuse or faulty relay can often be the culprit when only one window fails to operate. By following this methodical process, you can identify and address the issue efficiently, ensuring your window functions properly without unnecessary complications.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2012 Dodge Challenger to stop working?

When dealing with a non-functioning window in a 2012 Dodge Challenger, 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 responsible for the movement of the window. If this component fails, the window may not move at all or may get stuck in one position. Another frequent issue is a defective window motor; if the motor is malfunctioning, it can prevent the window from operating smoothly. Additionally, electrical issues such as blown fuses, damaged wiring, or a faulty window switch can disrupt the window's functionality, making it crucial to check these components during troubleshooting. Sometimes, the window may simply come off its track, leading to misalignment and operational failure. By systematically examining these potential issues, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the problem, restoring the window's functionality without the need for professional assistance.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning window in my 2012 Dodge Challenger?

Addressing a malfunctioning window in your 2012 Dodge Challenger is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, a window that does not operate correctly can compromise your safety while driving, as it may hinder your visibility or leave your vehicle vulnerable to theft. Additionally, neglecting this issue can lead to further complications, such as electrical problems or damage to the window mechanism, which could result in more expensive repairs down the line. Moreover, a malfunctioning window can significantly affect your comfort, especially during extreme weather conditions, making it uncomfortable or even unsafe to drive. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize fixing the window promptly to ensure your safety, prevent additional damage, and maintain the overall convenience of your driving experience.

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2012 Dodge Challenger Window Troubleshooting Guide