2021 Hyundai Elantra Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2021 Hyundai Elantra 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 Hyundai Elantra 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 Hyundai Elantra 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 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in your 2021 Hyundai Elantra, begin with the simplest potential issues before progressing to more complex components. Start by testing the window switch, as a malfunctioning switch is often the easiest fix. If the switch appears to be working, proceed to inspect the fuse box for any blown fuses that could interrupt the window's operation. If the fuses are intact, the next step is to examine the window motor, which is crucial for the window's movement; a faulty motor may require replacement. Following this, assess the window regulator, as any damage or wear here can hinder the window's functionality. Finally, check the wiring connected to the window for any signs of damage or disconnection, as compromised wiring can disrupt electrical flow. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively identify and resolve the issue with your window, ensuring a smoother and more efficient repair process.

What are the common problems that could cause the power window in a 2021 Hyundai Elantra to stop functioning?

When troubleshooting power window issues in a 2021 Hyundai Elantra, 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 movement of the window. If the regulator is malfunctioning, the window may become stuck or fail to operate entirely. Another frequent issue is a defective window switch, which can prevent the window from receiving the necessary signals to move. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the window motor, leading to a complete loss of function. If the window motor itself has failed, it will not respond to commands from the switch, resulting in a non-operational window. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also disrupt the electrical flow needed for the window to function. Lastly, if the window has come off its track, it may not move smoothly, causing it to get stuck. By identifying and addressing these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the power window issues in your Hyundai Elantra.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window in my 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

When faced with a malfunctioning window in your 2021 Hyundai Elantra, it is crucial to act swiftly due to the various risks involved. A window that fails to close properly not only compromises your vehicle's security, making it susceptible to theft, but also exposes the interior to harsh weather conditions, which can lead to costly damage over time. Additionally, driving with a malfunctioning window may violate local laws, resulting in fines or penalties that could have been easily avoided. Furthermore, neglecting this issue can diminish your car's resale value, as prospective buyers are often deterred by visible defects or unresolved mechanical problems. Therefore, addressing a malfunctioning window promptly is essential for ensuring your safety, protecting your investment, and maintaining compliance with regulations. Taking the initiative to fix this issue can save you from more significant problems down the road, making it a priority for any DIY car owner.

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