2009 Lexus GS350 Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2009 Lexus GS350 Windows and Effective Repair Solutions

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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 2009 Lexus GS350 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 2009 Lexus GS350 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 2009 Lexus GS350?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in a 2009 Lexus GS350, it is essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler fixes before delving into more complex issues. Start by testing the window switch, as this is often the most straightforward problem to address. If the switch is functioning correctly, the next step is to inspect the fuse box for any blown fuses associated with the window system, replacing any damaged fuses with ones of the same amperage. Following this, examine the wiring connected to the window motor for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can impede power flow. If the wiring appears to be in good condition, utilize a multimeter to test the window motor for power and ground; if the motor is not receiving power, the issue may stem from the wiring or switch. Lastly, check the window regulator for any signs of wear or damage, as a faulty regulator may necessitate replacement. By adhering to this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue, ensuring that your window functions properly once again.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2009 Lexus GS350 to stop working?

When troubleshooting a non-working window in a 2009 Lexus GS350, it's important to consider several common issues that may be causing the malfunction. A faulty window regulator is often the primary suspect, as it directly controls the window's movement; if it fails, the window may become stuck. Additionally, the window motor could be at fault; a defective motor will prevent the window from responding to the switch. Electrical problems, such as blown fuses or damaged wiring, can also disrupt functionality, so inspecting these components is essential. Furthermore, a malfunctioning window switch may need testing or replacement if it fails to activate the window. Lastly, alignment issues can hinder the window's movement, and adjusting the alignment can often restore proper function. By methodically examining these potential problems, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the window issue in your Lexus GS350.

How urgent is it to address the window malfunction in a 2009 Lexus GS350 that won't go up or down?

Addressing a window malfunction in a 2009 Lexus GS350 that won't go up or down is of utmost urgency due to several critical factors. First and foremost, safety is a primary concern; a window that fails to operate can hinder quick exits in emergencies, putting passengers at risk. Additionally, a window that remains open or partially closed can expose the vehicle to theft, leaving valuable belongings vulnerable. Weather protection is another significant issue; an inoperable window can allow rain, snow, or extreme temperatures to infiltrate the car, potentially damaging the interior and compromising passenger comfort. Furthermore, such malfunctions may indicate deeper electrical problems within the vehicle, which, if left unaddressed, could lead to more extensive and costly repairs. Lastly, maintaining all vehicle components, including windows, is essential for preserving the car's resale value. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly to resolve any window issues to ensure the safety, security, and overall functionality of your Lexus GS350.

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