Mercedes-Benz E420 Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your Mercedes-Benz E420 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 E420 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 E420 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 E420

When troubleshooting window operation issues in your Mercedes-Benz E420, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the electrical system, as many window problems stem from faulty fuses or relays. Inspect the window motor and regulator for any signs of damage, as these components are critical for window functionality. If the power windows are unresponsive, examine the door control module, which manages the window circuit; a blown fuse here can lead to multiple electrical failures. Additionally, inspect the wiring and switches for loose connections or short circuits that could disrupt power supply. If basic checks do not yield results, consider performing a window reset, which can often resolve minor glitches. This involves fully lowering the window, holding the switch for five seconds, and then raising it while repeating the same hold. If these steps do not rectify the issue, it may indicate a deeper problem with the door control module or other electrical systems, at which point professional assistance may be necessary for a thorough diagnosis and repair.

What to Check When Your Mercedes-Benz E420 Window Won't Go Up or Down?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning window in your Mercedes-Benz E420, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. Start by examining the electrical components, as issues with the fuse or relay can often disrupt window operation. If these are intact, the window motor is the next critical component to inspect; a malfunctioning motor may prevent the window from moving altogether. Additionally, the window regulator should be checked for any signs of wear or damage, as this part is responsible for the window's movement. Don't overlook the window switch; listen for a click when you press it, which indicates that power is reaching the switch. Be mindful of any unusual symptoms, such as grinding noises or inconsistent movement, as these can provide clues to the underlying issue. If you identify a problem, repairs may involve removing the door panel to access and replace faulty components or re-establish connections. By methodically assessing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the window issue in your E420.

Why is the Window Not Operating in a Mercedes-Benz E420?

When the windows in your Mercedes-Benz E420 fail to operate, it’s essential to act promptly, as neglecting this issue can lead to further complications and safety risks. A common culprit for non-functioning windows is a recently replaced or disconnected 12-volt battery, which may require a reset of the window sensors to restore normal operation. Begin your diagnosis by checking the window switch and fuses, as these are often the simplest components to inspect. If these elements are functioning correctly, the problem may lie deeper within the system, such as a malfunctioning window motor or regulator. Ignoring these symptoms can not only inconvenience you but may also lead to more significant electrical or mechanical failures, potentially resulting in costly repairs. Additionally, if your windows are moving erratically, it could indicate that the sensors need recalibration. Addressing these issues promptly ensures the safety and functionality of your vehicle, preventing further damage and maintaining the integrity of your Mercedes-Benz E420.

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