2020 Kia Soul Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2020 Kia Soul 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 2020 Kia Soul 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 2020 Kia Soul 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 2020 Kia Soul?

When diagnosing a non-functioning window in your 2020 Kia Soul, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex issues. Start by checking the window switch, as a malfunctioning switch is often the easiest fix. If the switch appears to be working, the next step is to inspect the fuse associated with the window; a blown fuse can easily disrupt functionality. If both the switch and fuse are in good condition, proceed to test the window motor to ensure it is receiving power, as wiring issues or a faulty motor could be the culprit. Additionally, examine the window regulator, which is crucial for the window's movement, and ensure it is functioning properly. Lastly, check for any obstructions that might be hindering the window's operation. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable, as they possess the expertise and tools necessary for a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue with your Kia Soul's window.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2020 Kia Soul to stop working?

When addressing window issues in a 2020 Kia Soul, it's crucial to recognize the common problems that may be causing the malfunction. A primary concern is the window regulator, which is essential for the window's movement; if it becomes faulty, the window may not operate correctly. Another frequent issue is a defective window switch, which can fail to send the necessary signals to the window motor, preventing it from functioning. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fuse box can disrupt the power supply to the window motor, leading to a complete stop in window operation. If the window motor itself is defective, it may not provide the power needed for the window regulator, resulting in the window being stuck. Lastly, wiring problems, such as damage or corrosion, can hinder the electrical connections required for the window to work. By understanding these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve window problems in your Kia Soul, ensuring a smoother DIY repair process.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window on a 2020 Kia Soul that won't go up or down?

When a window on a 2020 Kia Soul is stuck and won't move, the urgency to fix it cannot be overstated. A malfunctioning window can create significant safety concerns, particularly if it is stuck in a partially open position, exposing passengers to harsh weather conditions and reducing visibility while driving. Additionally, this situation can compromise the vehicle's security, making it an easy target for theft. Ignoring the problem may lead to further mechanical damage, resulting in more extensive repairs and higher costs. Moreover, in some areas, driving with a malfunctioning window could violate local regulations, potentially leading to fines. Therefore, addressing the issue as soon as possible is crucial for ensuring the safety, comfort, and security of both the vehicle and its occupants. Consulting a professional mechanic or authorized service center is advisable to diagnose and resolve the problem effectively.

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