2017 Kia Forte Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2017 Kia Forte's Power Windows and How to Fix Them

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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 2017 Kia Forte 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 2017 Kia Forte 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 2017 Kia Forte?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in your 2017 Kia Forte, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex assessments. Start by checking the window switch, as a malfunctioning switch is often the root cause of the issue. If the switch appears to be operational, move on to inspect the fuse related to the window; a blown fuse can easily disrupt functionality. Next, utilize a multimeter to test the window motor for power; if there’s no power, the motor may need replacement. Following this, examine the window regulator for any signs of damage, as a faulty regulator can hinder window movement. Finally, inspect the wiring connected to both the window motor and switch for any damage or loose connections, as these can also lead to malfunction. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively identify and resolve the issue with your window.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2017 Kia Forte to stop working?

When addressing the issue of a non-working window in a 2017 Kia Forte, it's crucial to identify the common problems that may be causing the malfunction. A primary suspect is the window regulator, which is essential for the window's movement; if it fails, the window will remain inoperative. Another frequent issue is a malfunctioning window switch located on the door panel, which may fail to send the necessary signals to the window motor. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the power supply to the window motor, making it vital to check the fuses as an initial troubleshooting step. If the window motor itself has failed, it will not respond to commands from the switch, resulting in a complete lack of movement. Lastly, wiring issues, such as damaged wires or poor connections, can also hinder the window's operation. By methodically examining these components, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue, restoring your vehicle's window functionality.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window on a 2017 Kia Forte that won't go up or down?

When faced with a malfunctioning window on a 2017 Kia Forte that won't move, it's crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. A stuck window can significantly compromise safety, as it may hinder quick exits during emergencies and obstruct visibility while driving. Additionally, a window that fails to close properly exposes the vehicle to theft and environmental elements, making it vulnerable to damage from rain, snow, or extreme temperatures. This not only affects the comfort of passengers but can also lead to costly interior repairs. Moreover, neglecting the issue can result in further mechanical complications, escalating repair costs and time. Therefore, addressing the malfunctioning window promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's safety, security, and overall functionality. It is advisable to seek professional assistance to ensure a thorough inspection and repair, preventing any additional issues from arising.

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