1995 Nissan Altima Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 1995 Nissan Altima 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 1995 Nissan Altima 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 1995 Nissan Altima 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 steps should I take to diagnose the window issue in my 1995 Nissan Altima?

To effectively diagnose the window issue in your 1995 Nissan Altima, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuse associated with the window system, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. If the fuse is intact, proceed to test the window switch to ensure it is functioning correctly; a faulty switch can often be the culprit behind non-operational windows. Next, inspect the wiring connected to the window motor for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt power flow. If the wiring appears intact, use a multimeter to test the window motor for power; if there’s no power, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, examine the window regulator, which is crucial for the window's movement, as a malfunction here can prevent proper operation. Finally, check for any obstructions in the window track that could hinder movement. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify the root cause of the window issue and determine the necessary repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the windows to stop functioning in a 1995 Nissan Altima?

When the windows of a 1995 Nissan Altima stop functioning, several common problems may be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty window regulator, which can hinder the window's ability to move up or down. Additionally, a defective window motor can leave the window stuck in one position, rendering it inoperable. Another frequent issue is a broken window switch, which can prevent the driver from controlling the window's movement. It's also essential to check for a blown fuse in the vehicle's electrical system, as this can disrupt power to the windows entirely. In some cases, the window may have come off its track, causing it to move unevenly or not at all. Lastly, electrical issues, such as damaged wiring or poor connections, can also lead to window malfunctions. By understanding these common problems, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve window issues in their Nissan Altima.

How urgent is it to fix the non-operational window in my 1995 Nissan Altima?

When dealing with a non-operational window in your 1995 Nissan Altima, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. A malfunctioning window can significantly compromise your safety by obstructing visibility, which is essential for safe driving. Additionally, if you reside in an area prone to severe weather, leaving a window open can lead to water damage or freezing conditions inside your vehicle, resulting in costly repairs. Security is another pressing concern; an unsecured window can make your car an easy target for theft, increasing the risk of losing valuable belongings. Furthermore, the discomfort of an inoperable window, especially during hot summer days, can detract from your driving experience. Therefore, addressing the issue promptly not only enhances your safety and security but also ensures a more comfortable ride, making it imperative to fix the window as soon as possible.

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1995 Nissan Altima Window Issues: Causes & Repair Costs