Nissan D21 Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your Nissan D21 Window Mechanism and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 Nissan D21 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 Nissan D21 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 Malfunction in a Nissan D21

When troubleshooting window malfunctions in your Nissan D21, start by examining the electrical system, as issues with fuses or relays are often the simplest and most common culprits. If the electrical components appear intact, the next step is to assess the window motor; a malfunctioning motor can lead to intermittent operation or complete failure of the window to move. Pay attention to any unusual noises, such as grinding or squeaking, which may indicate problems with the window regulator. If the window is slow to move or not responding at all, these symptoms can guide your diagnosis. Should these initial checks not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to delve deeper into the system or consult a professional for a thorough diagnostic evaluation. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the root cause of window malfunctions, ensuring your Nissan D21 remains in optimal condition.

What to Check When Your Nissan D21 Window Won't Go Up or Down?

When troubleshooting a Nissan D21 window that won't go up or down, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. Start by examining the electrical system, including the fuse and relay, as these components are often the culprits behind window malfunctions. If the window operates in one direction but not the other, the window switch may be faulty and should be tested for functionality. Additionally, inspect the window and door for any signs of misalignment or damage that could hinder movement. A simple yet effective method is to give the door panel a firm smack; if the window motor responds, this may indicate an issue with the motor or wiring. Utilizing a diagnostic flowchart can also streamline the troubleshooting process, helping you identify specific issues like jammed or misaligned windows. For newer models, resetting the power window modules can resolve automatic function problems. Regular maintenance is crucial, as addressing minor issues early can prevent more significant problems down the line, ensuring your windows operate smoothly and your vehicle remains safe and comfortable.

Why is it Urgent to Fix a Non-Functional Window in a Nissan D21?

Fixing a non-functional window in your Nissan D21 is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent necessity that impacts your safety and security. A window that fails to operate can severely limit your visibility, making it difficult to navigate safely on the road. Additionally, an improperly closing window leaves your vehicle vulnerable to theft and environmental damage, exposing the interior to rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. This not only compromises the comfort of passengers but can also lead to costly repairs down the line, as neglecting the issue may result in electrical malfunctions or damage to the window mechanism itself. By addressing this problem promptly, you ensure a safer driving experience, protect your vehicle from potential threats, and maintain the overall functionality and comfort of your Nissan D21.

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Nissan D21 Window Won't Go Up Down: Common Issues & Repairs