2012 GMC Yukon Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2012 GMC Yukon Windows and Effective Repair Solutions

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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 2012 GMC Yukon 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 GMC Yukon 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 GMC Yukon?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in your 2012 GMC Yukon, begin with a methodical approach that emphasizes simplicity and efficiency. Start by checking the fuse associated with the power window system, as a blown fuse is often the easiest issue to resolve. Next, observe the window's behavior; listen for any unusual sounds or note if the window operates slowly, which can indicate a problem with the motor or switch. After that, test the power switch to ensure it is functioning correctly, as a faulty switch can prevent the window from responding. If these initial checks do not reveal the problem, proceed to test the window motor itself, as a malfunctioning motor is a common culprit for window failures. Should these steps not lead to a resolution, it may be time to consult a professional for further diagnosis. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issue with your vehicle's window.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2012 GMC Yukon to not go up or down?

When troubleshooting a window that won't go up or down in a 2012 GMC Yukon, it's important to consider several common issues that may be affecting its operation. A faulty window regulator is often the primary reason, as this component is essential for the window's movement; if it is damaged, the window may become stuck. Additionally, problems with the power window switch can prevent the window from responding, often due to electrical malfunctions or wear over time. The window motor, which powers the regulator, is another critical component; if it fails, the window will not operate at all. It's also advisable to check for a blown fuse in the vehicle's fuse box, as this can interrupt the power supply to the windows. Lastly, if the window has come off its track, it may not move smoothly, which can occur due to physical force or general wear and tear. By understanding these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the window issue in your GMC Yukon.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning window in my 2012 GMC Yukon?

When dealing with a malfunctioning window in your 2012 GMC Yukon, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial. If the window fails to operate, it may not only compromise your comfort but also pose significant safety risks. For instance, a stuck window can prevent proper ventilation, which is particularly concerning in extreme weather conditions. Additionally, if the window is stuck in an open position, it could expose your vehicle to theft or vandalism. Common issues such as a blown fuse, a faulty power switch, or a malfunctioning window motor can escalate if left unaddressed, potentially leading to more extensive and costly repairs. Therefore, it is advisable to diagnose and resolve the issue as soon as possible to maintain the functionality of your vehicle and ensure your safety on the road. Taking prompt action can help prevent further complications and keep your GMC Yukon in optimal condition.

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