2014 Subaru Forester Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2014 Subaru Forester's Power Windows and Effective Fixes

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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 2014 Subaru Forester 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 malfunction or not operate at all.
  • 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 2014 Subaru Forester 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.

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.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window in my 2014 Subaru Forester?

Addressing a malfunctioning window in your 2014 Subaru Forester is not just a matter of convenience; it is a pressing safety concern that should not be overlooked. A window that fails to operate properly can obstruct your visibility, making it difficult to navigate safely on the road. Additionally, an open or improperly sealed window can expose your vehicle to the elements, leading to water damage or interior wear from rain or snow. This not only compromises your comfort but can also escalate into more significant repair costs if left unaddressed. Furthermore, a window that cannot close securely poses a serious security risk, making your vehicle an easy target for theft or vandalism. By prioritizing the repair of your window, you not only enhance your driving experience but also protect your investment and ensure your safety on the road. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly and seek repairs to avoid further complications and maintain the integrity of your vehicle.

What are the steps to diagnose a window that won't operate in a 2014 Subaru Forester?

When diagnosing a window that won't operate in a 2014 Subaru Forester, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex issues. Start by checking the electrical system, as problems like blown fuses or faulty relays are common culprits. Locate the fuse box, typically found near the driver's left knee and under the hood, and inspect the relevant fuses and relays for any signs of damage. Next, examine the window switch, which is crucial for signaling the window to move; a malfunctioning switch can easily prevent operation. If the switch appears to be functioning correctly, turn your attention to the window motor, as a failure here can also lead to issues. Additionally, inspect the window regulator, as a broken or binding regulator can hinder smooth operation. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a professional technician who can provide a thorough diagnosis and ensure that the problem is accurately identified and repaired. This methodical approach not only saves time but also helps in pinpointing the exact cause of the malfunction, making it easier to implement the necessary repairs.

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