2018 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Fixing window mechanism issues in the 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Utility

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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 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Utility 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 Ford Police Interceptor Utility 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 steps should I take to diagnose the window issue in my 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Utility?

When diagnosing a window issue in your 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Utility, it's crucial to follow a structured diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before tackling more complex problems. Begin by checking the window switch, as a malfunction here can often be the primary culprit behind window operation failures. If the switch is functioning properly, the next logical step is to inspect the fuse related to the window mechanism; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the window's operation. After confirming the fuse is intact, test the window motor to ensure it is receiving power and operating correctly, since a faulty motor can lead to significant issues. Additionally, examine the window regulator, which is essential for the window's movement; any damage or wear in this component can impede functionality. It's also important to check for wiring issues, such as loose connections or damaged wires, which can affect the electrical flow to the window components. If these steps do not resolve the issue, or if the problem appears too complex, consulting a professional mechanic with expertise in automotive electrical systems is advisable. This methodical approach will help you effectively diagnose and address the window issue in your vehicle.

What are the common causes for the power window malfunction in a 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Utility?

When dealing with power window malfunctions in a 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Utility, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise. A faulty window regulator is often the primary culprit, as it can lead to windows becoming stuck or operating erratically. Additionally, a defective window switch can hinder the window's movement, preventing it from going up or down smoothly. Electrical issues, such as wiring faults or blown fuses, can disrupt the power supply to the window motor, resulting in a complete failure of the window system. Furthermore, a failing window motor may cause the window to move slowly or not at all, while improper window alignment within the door frame can lead to further complications, such as the window getting stuck or operating unevenly. By identifying these common causes, DIY enthusiasts can effectively diagnose and address power window issues, ensuring smooth operation of their vehicle's windows.

How urgent is it to repair the malfunctioning window in a 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Utility?

Repairing a malfunctioning window in a 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Utility is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety and security concern that should be addressed without delay. A compromised window can leave the vehicle vulnerable to unauthorized access, increasing the risk of theft or vandalism. Moreover, if the window fails to close properly, it can expose the interior to harsh weather conditions, leading to potential damage from rain, snow, or extreme temperatures. This exposure not only affects the comfort of the occupants but can also result in costly repairs down the line. Additionally, a malfunctioning window can obstruct visibility, creating a significant safety hazard while driving. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the repair of the window to maintain the vehicle's integrity, ensure the safety of its occupants, and uphold the security features that are vital for a police interceptor. Taking prompt action will help prevent further complications and ensure that the vehicle remains in optimal working condition.

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2018 Ford Police Interceptor Window Issues & Solutions