Mercedes-Benz C350e Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your Mercedes-Benz C350e and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Mercedes-Benz C350e 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 Mercedes-Benz C350e 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 Mercedes-Benz C350e

When faced with window operation issues in your Mercedes-Benz C350e, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by examining the simplest components, such as the window switch and fuses, as these are often the culprits behind malfunctioning power windows. If these elements are functioning correctly, proceed to inspect the more complex components, including the window motor and regulator. It's also wise to check for any obstructions in the window sill that could impede movement. If the problem persists, consider reprogramming the windows, which can often restore their functionality without the need for professional assistance. In cases where deeper issues are suspected, such as wiring problems within the door panel, you may need to remove the door panel to access and repair the affected wiring. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve window issues, ensuring your Mercedes-Benz C350e operates smoothly.

What to Check When the Window Won't Go Up or Down in a Mercedes-Benz C350e?

When faced with a window that won't go up or down in your Mercedes-Benz C350e, it's essential to systematically check several common problems that could be causing the malfunction. Start by examining the electrical system, as a blown fuse or a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the power supply to the window motor. If the electrical components are functioning correctly, the next step is to assess the window motor itself; a broken or worn-out motor may lead to intermittent operation or complete failure. Additionally, inspect the window regulator, as a faulty regulator can hinder the window's movement, resulting in it getting stuck or moving erratically. Pay attention to any accompanying symptoms, such as unusual noises or sluggish movement, which can provide further clues about the underlying issue. By methodically checking these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the window problem in your C350e, making it a rewarding DIY project.

How to Fix a Non-Operating Window in a Mercedes-Benz C350e?

When dealing with a non-operating window in your Mercedes-Benz C350e, it’s crucial to act promptly to avoid further complications. Ignoring the issue can lead to safety risks, such as compromised visibility while driving, and may also result in costly repairs if the problem escalates. Start by using a full system scanner to identify any error codes that could point to the root cause of the malfunction. If the door module appears to be functioning correctly, investigate other components like the window regulator, motor, and switch, as these are common culprits. Additionally, check for a blown fuse, especially if multiple windows are affected, as this could indicate a broader electrical issue. Performing a window reset can also resolve many power window problems, so be sure to follow the necessary steps for recalibration. Don’t overlook the condition of the window seals, as damaged or misaligned seals can lead to water leaks and increased cabin noise, further complicating the situation. By diagnosing the issue accurately and addressing it without delay, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and functional, preventing minor problems from turning into major repairs.

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