2021 Hyundai Sonata Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2021 Hyundai Sonata's 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 2021 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 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 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.

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 Sonata?

To diagnose a non-functioning window in your 2021 Hyundai Sonata, begin with the simplest solution by testing the window switch. A malfunctioning switch can easily be the culprit, so ensure it is operational before proceeding. Next, inspect the fuse box for any blown fuses associated with the window system, as this can halt functionality. If both the switch and fuse are in good condition, turn your attention to the window motor, which is essential for movement; a faulty motor will require replacement. Following this, examine the window regulator, as any damage or wear here can impede the window's operation. Lastly, check the wiring connected to both the motor and switch for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these issues can disrupt electrical flow. By following this systematic approach, you can effectively identify and address the problem with your window, ensuring a smoother repair process.

What are the common problems that could cause the windows of a 2021 Hyundai Sonata to stop functioning?

When dealing with non-functioning windows in a 2021 Hyundai Sonata, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty window regulator, which can hinder the window's ability to move up or down smoothly. Additionally, electrical issues such as a blown fuse or a malfunctioning window switch can disrupt the window's operation, making it essential to check these components first. Another potential issue is the failure of the window motor, which is responsible for responding to the switch commands; if this motor is defective, the window will remain unresponsive. Furthermore, windows can sometimes come off their tracks, leading to uneven movement or complete immobility. Lastly, physical damage to the window glass itself can also prevent proper functionality. Accurately diagnosing these issues is vital for effective DIY repairs, ensuring that you can restore your Sonata's windows to working order efficiently.

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

When it comes to fixing a malfunctioning window in your 2021 Hyundai Sonata, urgency is key. Ignoring this issue can lead to serious safety risks, as a window that won't close properly can leave your vehicle exposed to theft and environmental elements. This not only compromises your safety but also increases the likelihood of water damage to the interior, which can affect upholstery and electronic systems. Additionally, a malfunctioning window can disrupt your driving experience by allowing outside noise to intrude, diminishing comfort during your travels. Furthermore, neglecting this repair can adversely impact your car's resale value; potential buyers are often deterred by visible issues, including non-functional windows. Therefore, addressing the malfunction as soon as possible is crucial to ensure your safety, protect your vehicle from further damage, and maintain its overall value.

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