2013 Lincoln MKS Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2013 Lincoln MKS and How to Fix Them

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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 2013 Lincoln MKS 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 2013 Lincoln MKS 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 2013 Lincoln MKS?

When diagnosing a non-functioning window in a 2013 Lincoln MKS, it's crucial to follow a structured diagnostic approach that emphasizes simpler solutions first. Begin by testing the window switch, as this is often the most straightforward issue to resolve; a malfunctioning switch can easily prevent the window from operating. If the switch is functional, the next step is to check the fuse box for any blown fuses associated with the window system, replacing any that are faulty. After ensuring the fuses are intact, inspect the wiring connected to the window motor for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for operation. If the wiring appears to be in good condition, utilize a multimeter to test the window motor for power and ground; this will help ascertain whether the motor is receiving the required electrical input. Lastly, if all other components are functioning properly, examine the window regulator for any signs of wear or damage, as a defective regulator can also hinder window movement. By systematically addressing each of these components, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue with your window, facilitating a more efficient repair process.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2013 Lincoln MKS to not go up or down?

When dealing with a window that won't go up or down in a 2013 Lincoln MKS, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty window regulator, which is responsible for the movement of the window. If this component fails, the window may become stuck. Additionally, issues with the power window motor can prevent the window from operating, as a malfunctioning motor will not provide the necessary power for movement. Electrical problems, such as blown fuses or faulty switches, can also disrupt the window's functionality, making it crucial to check these components first. A malfunctioning window switch may fail to send the correct signals to the motor, further complicating the issue. In some cases, the window may come off its track, which can happen due to wear and tear or obstructions, leading to a stuck window. Lastly, problems with the window seal can affect its operation, causing it to move unevenly or get stuck. By identifying and addressing these common issues, you can effectively troubleshoot the problem and restore the functionality of your window.

How urgent is the window malfunction in my 2013 Lincoln MKS that won't go up or down?

When dealing with a window malfunction in your 2013 Lincoln MKS, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for both safety and convenience. If the issue stems from the electrical system, such as a blown fuse or faulty relay, it may not require immediate action, but timely repairs are still essential to maintain the window's functionality. Conversely, if the problem is due to a broken window motor or regulator, the urgency increases significantly. A malfunctioning motor can prevent the window from opening or closing, which is particularly concerning for ventilation and safety, especially in emergency situations. Additionally, a broken regulator can lead to further complications, potentially causing additional damage to the window assembly. Therefore, while some window issues may not pose an immediate threat, it is advisable to diagnose and repair them promptly to avoid inconvenience and ensure the safety of all passengers. Addressing these malfunctions quickly will help maintain the overall integrity of your vehicle and enhance your driving experience.

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