2017 Mercedes-Benz S550 Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Resolve 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550 window issues with effective repair solutions.

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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 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550 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 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550 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 initial diagnostic steps to take for a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550 window that won't go up or down?

When faced with a non-functioning window in your 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550, it's crucial to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the window switch; this is a simple yet effective first step, as a malfunctioning switch can prevent the window from operating. If the switch appears to be working, proceed to inspect the fuses associated with the power windows. A blown fuse can easily disrupt the electrical flow necessary for window operation. Next, utilize a multimeter to test the window motor, ensuring it is receiving the correct power and ground signals. If the motor is functional, turn your attention to the window regulator, as wear or damage to this component can hinder window movement. Lastly, examine the window track for any obstructions that may be causing the window to jam. By following these steps in order, you can efficiently diagnose and potentially resolve the issue with your S550 window, saving time and money on repairs.

What are the common causes for the window malfunction in a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550 where it won't go up or down?

When addressing a window malfunction in a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550, it's crucial to identify the common issues that may be at play. One significant factor is the window regulator, which is essential for the window's movement; if it fails, the window can become stuck. Another potential cause is a faulty window motor, which provides the necessary power for the window to operate. If this motor is damaged, the window will not respond to the switch commands. Additionally, electrical issues, such as a blown fuse or a malfunctioning switch, can hinder the window's functionality. It's also important to consider the window switch itself, as a defect here can prevent the window from moving. Lastly, if the window has come off its track, it may be unable to move up or down properly. By understanding these common problems, you can better diagnose the issue, but for a comprehensive inspection and repair, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is recommended.

How urgent is it to repair the malfunctioning window in a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550?

When faced with a malfunctioning window in your 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550, addressing the repair should be a top priority due to several critical factors. First and foremost, safety is paramount; a window that is stuck open or closed can obstruct your visibility, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, an open window can expose your vehicle to the elements, leading to potential water damage or interior wear from extreme temperatures. Security is another pressing concern; a window that fails to close properly leaves your vehicle vulnerable to theft, making it essential to restore its functionality promptly. Furthermore, neglecting such repairs can adversely affect the resale value of your car, as prospective buyers are likely to be deterred by visible issues. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly to ensure the safety, security, and overall integrity of your vehicle, making timely repairs not just a matter of convenience, but a necessity.

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