2021 GMC Terrain Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2021 GMC Terrain Windows and Effective Fixes

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2021 GMC Terrain 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 2021 GMC Terrain 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 the power window issue in a 2021 GMC Terrain?

To effectively diagnose a power window issue in your 2021 GMC Terrain, begin with the simplest solutions and progressively move to more intricate assessments. Start by checking the fuse associated with the power windows; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem that can halt window operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to test the power window switch, as a malfunctioning switch can also disrupt functionality. Next, inspect the wiring for any visible damage or loose connections, as faulty wiring can prevent the system from working correctly. If these components are functioning, examine the window regulator, which is crucial for the movement of the window. A defective window motor can also be the culprit, so ensure it is operational. Finally, if all else checks out, test the window control module, as it plays a vital role in managing the power windows. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue, ensuring your power windows operate smoothly once again.

What are the common problems that could cause the windows in a 2021 GMC Terrain to stop functioning?

When dealing with window malfunctions in a 2021 GMC Terrain, 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 mechanical movement of the window; over time, this component can wear out and hinder window operation. Additionally, a defective window switch may prevent the window from responding to commands, as it fails to send the correct signals to the window motor. Another frequent issue is a blown fuse, which can disrupt the power supply to the windows, making it necessary to check and replace any blown fuses in the vehicle's fuse box. Furthermore, the window motor itself can fail, leading to the window becoming stuck or inoperative. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also impede the electrical flow needed for window functionality. Lastly, alignment problems may cause the window to struggle in moving smoothly within its frame. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve window issues in your GMC Terrain.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window on a 2021 GMC Terrain that won't go up or down?

When faced with a malfunctioning window on your 2021 GMC Terrain, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. A window that fails to operate can significantly compromise your safety, especially in emergencies where quick access to exit the vehicle is necessary. Additionally, the inability to close a window leaves your vehicle vulnerable to theft and environmental damage, exposing the interior to rain, snow, or extreme temperatures, which can lead to costly repairs down the line. Furthermore, neglecting this issue can exacerbate mechanical problems, potentially resulting in more extensive damage to the window mechanism or related components. Therefore, while it may not seem like an immediate crisis, addressing a malfunctioning window promptly is essential for maintaining the safety, security, and comfort of your driving experience.

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