2016 Ford F-150 Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2016 Ford F-150 Windows and Effective Repair Solutions

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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 2016 Ford F-150 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 Ford F-150 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.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when the window won't go up or down in a 2016 Ford F-150?

When dealing with a window that won't go up or down in your 2016 Ford F-150, it's crucial to start with a systematic approach to diagnose the issue effectively. Begin by checking the window switch to ensure it is operational; you can do this by testing it on other windows in the vehicle. If the switch appears to be functioning, the next step is to inspect the fuse box for any blown fuses related to the power windows, as replacing a blown fuse can often resolve the issue. If the fuses are intact, listen for any sounds when you press the window switch, which can indicate whether the window motor is working. If you hear noise but the window remains stuck, the problem may lie with the window regulator, so examine it for any signs of damage or wear. Lastly, check for any obstructions in the window track that could be hindering movement; clearing out debris can sometimes be the simplest solution. By following these steps, you can effectively troubleshoot the window issue and determine the necessary repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the windows to stop working in a 2016 Ford F-150?

When troubleshooting window issues in a 2016 Ford F-150, it's essential to understand the common problems that may be at play. A faulty window regulator is often the primary culprit, as it directly controls the window's movement; if it malfunctions, the window may not operate at all. Additionally, a defective window switch can hinder functionality, preventing you from raising or lowering the window. It's also wise to check for a blown fuse in the vehicle's fuse box, as this can easily disrupt power to the window system. If the window motor has failed, it will not provide the necessary power to the regulator, resulting in a non-functional window. Wiring issues, such as damage or corrosion, can further complicate matters by interrupting the electrical flow needed for operation. Lastly, alignment problems can cause the window to become stuck or misaligned, making it difficult to operate smoothly. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the window problems in your Ford F-150.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window on a 2016 Ford F-150?

Fixing a malfunctioning window on your 2016 Ford F-150 should be treated as an urgent matter due to the significant safety risks and potential for costly damage that can arise from neglecting the issue. A window that fails to close properly not only leaves your vehicle exposed to theft but also allows the elements to infiltrate the interior, which can lead to water damage and affect the electrical systems. In extreme weather, such as heavy rain or snow, the consequences can escalate quickly, resulting in a compromised driving experience and expensive repairs. By addressing the malfunction promptly, you not only enhance your vehicle's security but also protect its interior and mechanical components from further deterioration. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of your window to maintain the safety and integrity of your Ford F-150.

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