Ford Taurus X Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your Ford Taurus X and How to Fix Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Ford Taurus X 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 Ford Taurus X 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.

Troubleshooting Power Window Issues in a Ford Taurus X

When troubleshooting power window issues in a Ford Taurus X, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the power window regulator, as this is a common culprit for malfunctioning windows. If the regulator appears to be in good condition, inspect the window motor, especially if only one window is affected. A motor that only operates in one direction may indicate a failure that needs replacement. Next, examine the wiring harness for any signs of damage or cuts, particularly in the door jamb area, as this can disrupt power flow to the window system. If all windows are unresponsive, focus on the master window switch, as a faulty switch can prevent operation across the board. Testing the window motor directly with a 12v battery can help confirm whether it is functioning correctly. Lastly, consider the General Electronic Module (GEM), which may be linked to multiple electrical issues in the vehicle. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and resolve power window problems in your Ford Taurus X, ensuring a smoother and more efficient repair process.

How to Diagnose Window Malfunction in a Ford Taurus X?

When diagnosing a window malfunction in a Ford Taurus X, it's crucial to recognize the common problems that may be affecting the window system. A blown fuse or a faulty relay is often the primary culprit, especially if none of the windows respond to commands. Start by checking these components, as they are relatively easy to access and replace. If you hear a clicking sound when attempting to operate the window, this suggests that the relay is functioning, but the issue may lie with the window motor or regulator, which could require further inspection or replacement. Additionally, a malfunctioning window switch can prevent the window from moving, so testing this component is essential. Don't forget to consult the owner's manual for any specific features related to window operation, such as the global window opening function, which can sometimes be accidentally activated. By understanding these common issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve window malfunctions in your Ford Taurus X, ensuring a smoother and more efficient repair process.

How to Fix a Malfunctioning Window in a Ford Taurus X?

When dealing with a malfunctioning window in your Ford Taurus X, it’s crucial to act swiftly to avoid potential safety hazards and further complications. Ignoring symptoms such as unresponsive windows can lead to more significant electrical issues or even complete window failure, which may compromise your vehicle's security and your safety while driving. For instance, a faulty window can obstruct your view or fail to close properly, leaving your car vulnerable to theft or the elements. By promptly checking the fuse and relay, inspecting the electrical system, and examining components like the window motor and regulator, you can identify the root cause of the problem. Addressing these issues not only restores functionality but also prevents costly repairs down the line. Remember, timely intervention is key to maintaining your vehicle's performance and ensuring a safe driving experience.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

Ford Taurus X Window Won't Go Up or Down: Causes & Repairs