Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes for Window Malfunctions in Your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and How to Fix Them

Find Repair Location
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 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 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 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 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 Power Window Issues in a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

When troubleshooting power window issues in your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, start with the simplest solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the electrical system, as a blown fuse or faulty relay can often be the culprit behind a non-functioning window. If the electrical components appear intact, move on to the window switch; testing it can reveal whether it is sending the correct signals to the window motor. If the switch is operational, check the window motor itself for any signs of failure. Should the motor be functional, the next step is to examine the window regulator, as a malfunction here can prevent the window from moving. Additionally, inspect the wiring connected to the power window system for any damage or disconnections. Lastly, consider the pinch protection feature, which may cause the window to reverse if it encounters resistance. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the power window issues in your vehicle. If these steps do not yield results, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic may be necessary.

What to Check When Your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Window Won't Go Up or Down?

When faced with a window that won't go up or down in your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. Start by examining the electrical system, as issues with fuses or relays are frequent culprits behind window malfunctions. If the electrical components check out, the next step is to assess the window motor; a faulty motor can lead to intermittent operation or complete failure. Additionally, the window regulator plays a crucial role in the window's movement, and any damage to this component can prevent the window from functioning properly. If you've recently disconnected or replaced the vehicle's battery, reprogramming the auto windows may be necessary to restore their functionality. For a quick fix, you might try manually assisting the window by applying pressure while pressing the button, which can sometimes coax a stubborn window into action. If these troubleshooting steps don't resolve the issue, consider replacing the power window motor, window regulator, or power window switch, as these repairs are often manageable for DIY enthusiasts. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the window issue in your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport.

Why is it Urgent to Fix a Non-Operating Window in a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

Fixing a non-operating window in your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent necessity that impacts your safety and the vehicle's integrity. A malfunctioning window can obstruct your visibility, making it difficult to navigate safely, especially in emergency situations where quick access to windows is crucial. Additionally, a window that cannot close properly compromises the security of your vehicle, increasing the risk of theft or unauthorized access. Beyond safety and security, a non-operating window exposes the interior to harsh weather conditions, leading to discomfort for passengers and potential damage to upholstery and electronics. Moreover, neglecting this issue can result in further complications, such as electrical failures or damage to the window mechanism itself, which could escalate repair costs significantly. Therefore, addressing a non-operating window promptly is essential to ensure your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport remains safe, secure, and fully operational.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Window Issues: Causes & Repairs