2012 Nissan Maxima Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2012 Nissan Maxima and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2012 Nissan Maxima 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 2012 Nissan Maxima 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 when a 2012 Nissan Maxima window won't go up or down?

When faced with a window that won't move in your 2012 Nissan Maxima, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by testing the window switch, as a malfunctioning switch is often the simplest issue to resolve. If the switch appears to be working, proceed to inspect the fuses associated with the power windows; a blown fuse can easily disrupt functionality. Should both the switch and fuses check out, the next step is to examine the window motor, which is crucial for the window's movement. If the motor is unresponsive, it may require replacement. Additionally, assess the window regulator, as wear or damage to this component can hinder window operation. Finally, inspect the wiring connected to both the motor and switch for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can also lead to window malfunctions. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the issue, ensuring your window operates smoothly once again.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2012 Nissan Maxima to not go up or down?

When dealing with a window that won't go up or down in a 2012 Nissan Maxima, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty window regulator, which is responsible for the movement of the window; if it fails, the window may become inoperable. Another frequent issue is a broken window motor, which can prevent the window from moving entirely or cause it to get stuck. Additionally, electrical problems such as a blown fuse or a malfunctioning switch can disrupt the window's operation, making it unresponsive to commands. The window switch itself may also be faulty, failing to send the necessary signals to the motor. In some cases, the window can come off its track, leading to erratic movement or complete immobility. Lastly, misalignment of the window glass can hinder its ability to move smoothly. Understanding these potential issues can help you diagnose the problem more effectively, whether you choose to tackle the repair yourself or seek professional assistance.

How urgent is it to fix the non-operational window in a 2012 Nissan Maxima?

When faced with a non-operational window in a 2012 Nissan Maxima, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. A malfunctioning window not only compromises the safety of passengers by limiting escape routes in emergencies but also affects visibility, which is essential for safe driving. Additionally, an open or partially closed window can expose the vehicle to theft, as it allows easy access to the interior, putting personal belongings at risk. Weather conditions further exacerbate the issue; rain or snow can infiltrate the cabin, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the upholstery and electronics. Moreover, neglecting this problem can result in more severe mechanical failures, as the underlying issues may worsen over time, leading to costly repairs. Therefore, addressing a non-operational window promptly is vital to ensure the vehicle remains safe, secure, and fully functional.

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2012 Nissan Maxima Window Issues: Causes & Repair Costs