2012 Subaru Impreza Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2012 Subaru Impreza's Power Windows and Effective Fixes

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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 Subaru Impreza 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 2012 Subaru Impreza 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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the window issue in my 2012 Subaru Impreza?

To effectively diagnose the window issue in your 2012 Subaru Impreza, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler fixes before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by identifying common symptoms, such as whether the window is stuck in the up or down position, which can provide immediate clues about the problem. Next, check the electrical components, including fuses, relays, and the power window switch, as these are often the culprits behind window malfunctions. If the electrical system appears intact, inspect the mechanical components, focusing on the window regulator and motor, as well as ensuring the glass is properly aligned within the track. Additionally, look for any blockages in the window track that could impede movement. If all else fails, consider performing a reset procedure by rolling the window down and then back up, which can sometimes resolve minor glitches. If the issue persists after these steps, it may be time to consult a professional technician for a more thorough diagnosis and repair. This methodical approach not only helps in identifying the problem but also saves time and resources by addressing the simplest solutions first.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning window in my 2012 Subaru Impreza?

When dealing with a malfunctioning window in your 2012 Subaru Impreza, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for both safety and vehicle integrity. If you find that all power windows have ceased to function simultaneously and there is no sound when you attempt to operate them, this could indicate a significant electrical issue that warrants immediate attention. Similarly, if the window is stuck in an open position, it not only compromises your security but also exposes your vehicle to potential weather damage and theft. Mechanical problems, such as dirt or debris obstructing the window mechanism, may seem less urgent but can lead to more severe issues if left unaddressed, such as the complete failure of the window system. Therefore, it is essential to assess the specific symptoms of your window malfunction and prioritize repairs based on their impact on your safety and the overall functionality of your vehicle. Taking timely action can prevent further complications and ensure that your Subaru Impreza remains safe and operational.

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