Lexus IS350 Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your Lexus IS350 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 Lexus IS350 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 Lexus IS350 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.

Troubleshooting Window Operation Issues in a Lexus IS350

When troubleshooting window operation issues in your Lexus IS350, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the window switch, as this is often the simplest fix; using jumper wires to apply power directly to the window motor can help determine if the switch is faulty. If the window remains unresponsive, try resetting it by rolling the window down halfway and then all the way up while holding the button for three seconds. This reset can sometimes resolve minor glitches. If the window still exhibits issues, inspect the window motor and regulator, as problems here can cause the window to behave erratically, such as closing partially before reopening. Ensure that the motor is installed correctly, as its position can affect functionality. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a professional for a thorough diagnosis, ensuring that your window operates smoothly and reliably. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix window issues in your Lexus IS350.

What to Check When Your Lexus IS350 Window Won't Go Up or Down?

When your Lexus IS350 window won't go up or down, it's crucial to identify the common problems that may be at play. Begin by checking the electrical system, focusing on the fuse and relay linked to the window operation, as a blown fuse can halt functionality. Next, evaluate the window motor; if there's no movement or vibrations when you attempt to operate the window, the motor might be defective. It's also important to inspect the window regulator to confirm that the window is seated correctly and that no debris is obstructing its path. If you've recently disconnected the battery, the window control may require a reset, which involves reinitializing the glass position. Additionally, ensure that the window up/down disable switch on the driver's door control panel is not inadvertently activated, as this can prevent window operation. If the window remains unresponsive, you may need to re-learn the one-touch system by following the specific procedures for your model. By systematically addressing these common issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve the window malfunction in your Lexus IS350.

Why is the Window Not Operating in a Lexus IS350?

When a window in your Lexus IS350 fails to operate, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring symptoms such as a window that won’t move can lead to more significant problems, including potential safety hazards. For instance, a stuck window can compromise your vehicle's security, making it easier for theft or vandalism to occur. Additionally, if the window is off track or the regulator is faulty, continued attempts to operate it may cause further damage, leading to costly repairs. Electrical issues, such as blown fuses or damaged wiring, can also escalate if not resolved quickly, potentially affecting other electrical components in your vehicle. Therefore, if you notice any signs of window malfunction, it’s advisable to investigate the cause promptly, whether it’s a DIY fix or seeking professional help, to ensure your Lexus IS350 remains safe and functional.

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