Scion TC Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your Scion tC 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 Scion tC 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 Scion tC 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 Issues in a Scion tC

When troubleshooting window issues in your Scion tC, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before delving into more complex problems. Start by checking the interior fuses, as a blown fuse is often the most straightforward issue to resolve. If the fuses are intact, proceed to reset the windows, which can sometimes clear minor glitches. Next, examine the window switch for any signs of malfunction, as a faulty switch can prevent proper operation. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, investigate the window motor and wiring for potential faults. By following this methodical process, you can effectively identify the root cause of the window malfunction and implement the necessary repairs, ensuring a smoother and more efficient troubleshooting experience.

What to Check When Your Scion tC Window Won't Go Up or Down?

When your Scion tC window won't go up or down, it's crucial to identify the underlying issues that may be causing the malfunction. Start by inspecting the electrical system, particularly the fuse and relay, as these components are often the first to fail and can disrupt window operation. If the electrical system checks out, the next step is to evaluate the window motor; a defective motor can completely halt window movement. Additionally, the window regulator plays a vital role in the window's ability to move, so ensure it is functioning properly, as a broken regulator can lead to significant problems. Don't overlook potential wiring issues that could interfere with the power supply to the window system, and finally, test the window switch to confirm it is operational, as a faulty switch can also prevent the window from working. By systematically assessing these components, you can effectively diagnose the issue and take the necessary steps to restore your window's functionality.

How to Fix a Stuck Window in a Scion tC?

When dealing with a stuck window in your Scion tC, it’s crucial to act swiftly to prevent further damage and ensure your safety. A malfunctioning window can compromise your vehicle's security, making it an easy target for theft, and can also lead to water damage if left unresolved, especially during inclement weather. Additionally, a stuck window may indicate underlying electrical or mechanical issues that could worsen over time, leading to more costly repairs. By checking the electrical system, inspecting the window motor and regulator, and ensuring the window lock is disengaged, you can effectively troubleshoot the problem. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider resetting the window system, as this can often restore functionality. Addressing a stuck window promptly not only enhances your driving experience but also protects your vehicle from potential hazards.

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