1990 Hyundai Sonata Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 1990 Hyundai Sonata's Power Windows and Effective Fixes

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 1990 Hyundai Sonata 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 malfunction or not operate at all.
  • 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 1990 Hyundai Sonata 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.

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 first steps to diagnose a non-functioning window in a 1990 Hyundai Sonata?

When diagnosing a non-functioning window in a 1990 Hyundai Sonata, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler fixes before delving into more complex issues. Begin by checking the fuse and relay associated with the power windows, as these components are often the culprits behind electrical failures. If the fuse and relay are intact, proceed to test the window switch by trying it on other windows; a malfunctioning switch can easily be identified this way. Next, examine the window motor by applying direct power and ground to its connections to determine if it operates correctly. If the motor is functional but the window remains stuck, the issue may lie with the window regulator, which could require temporary securing of the window until repairs can be made. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify the root cause of the window malfunction and take the necessary steps toward a solution.

What causes the window to not move in a 1990 Hyundai Sonata?

When dealing with a non-moving window in a 1990 Hyundai Sonata, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. Electrical issues are often the first suspects; a faulty power window switch, blown fuse, or damaged wiring can disrupt the flow of electricity necessary for window operation. Additionally, the window motor itself may have failed, which would prevent the window from responding to commands. Another frequent culprit is the window regulator, which can wear out over time, leading to erratic movement or complete failure. Lastly, if the power window switch is malfunctioning, it may not send the correct signals to the motor, resulting in a window that remains stuck. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the issue, restoring the window's functionality.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window on a 1990 Hyundai Sonata?

Fixing a malfunctioning window on your 1990 Hyundai Sonata should be treated as a priority, as neglecting this issue can lead to both safety hazards and further mechanical complications. A window that fails to operate properly can obstruct your visibility, making it difficult to drive safely, especially in adverse weather conditions. Additionally, delaying repairs may exacerbate the problem, potentially leading to more extensive and costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing the malfunction promptly not only enhances the vehicle's usability but also ensures that you maintain control over your driving environment. By taking swift action, you can restore the window's functionality, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. Remember, the sooner you tackle the issue, the less likely you are to encounter more serious problems that could compromise your vehicle's performance.

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1990 Hyundai Sonata Window Issues: Causes & Repairs