Mercedes-Benz CLK350 Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your Mercedes-Benz CLK350 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK350 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 CLK350 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 Issues in a Mercedes-Benz CLK350

When faced with window issues in your Mercedes-Benz CLK350, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the electrical system, as a blown fuse or faulty relay is often the simplest and most common culprit. If the fuse appears intact, inspect the window switch for any signs of malfunction, as this can prevent the window from responding. Next, consider the window motor and regulator; a broken motor may lead to intermittent operation or complete failure, while a faulty regulator can hinder the window's movement. If these components seem functional, utilize a full system scanner to identify any error codes that may provide further insight into the problem. Additionally, resetting the window position can sometimes resolve issues, so try fully lowering the window and then raising it while holding the switch for a few seconds. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve window issues in your CLK350, saving time and money on repairs.

What to Check When Your Mercedes-Benz CLK350 Window Won't Go Up or Down?

When your Mercedes-Benz CLK350 window fails to operate, it’s essential to methodically assess several potential problem areas. Start by examining the window motor and regulator, as these components are crucial for the window's movement and can often fail due to wear or electrical issues. Next, inspect the window switches for any dirt or debris that might hinder their performance; a simple cleaning can sometimes resolve the issue. Additionally, check for electrical problems, such as a blown fuse or faulty wiring, which can disrupt the power supply to the window system. Mechanical obstructions within the window mechanism should also be considered, as they can prevent smooth operation. Lastly, pay attention to any unusual sounds or behaviors, like grinding noises or sluggish movement, as these can provide valuable clues about the underlying issue. By following this systematic approach, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the window problem in your CLK350.

How to Fix a Non-Operating Window in a Mercedes-Benz CLK350?

When dealing with a non-operating window in your Mercedes-Benz CLK350, it’s crucial to act swiftly to avoid further complications. Ignoring the issue can lead to safety risks, such as exposure to the elements or potential theft, as an unsecured window can make your vehicle vulnerable. Additionally, a malfunctioning window can cause strain on the electrical system, potentially leading to more significant damage and costly repairs down the line. Start by thoroughly inspecting the window components, including the glass, motor, and regulator, to identify any visible issues. Pay close attention to the symptoms; for instance, if the window only moves in one direction or makes unusual noises, these could indicate specific problems that need addressing. Don’t overlook the window switch, as a faulty connection here can prevent the window from operating altogether. If you find that the window is completely unresponsive, consider disconnecting the battery for a few minutes to reset the system, which may resolve minor electronic glitches. By diagnosing and addressing these issues promptly, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and functional, preventing further damage and maintaining its value.

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