1995 Subaru Legacy Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 1995 Subaru Legacy 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 1995 Subaru Legacy 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 1995 Subaru Legacy 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 are the steps to diagnose a non-functioning window in a 1995 Subaru Legacy?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in your 1995 Subaru Legacy, start by inspecting the window switch for any signs of wear or debris that could impede its functionality. A multimeter can be a valuable tool here, allowing you to test the switch for continuity and determine if it’s the source of the problem. Next, check the electrical system, specifically the fuses and relays, as these are common culprits in window malfunctions. If the switch and electrical components are functioning correctly, turn your attention to the window motor. A faulty motor can prevent the window from moving, so testing it for power and functionality is essential. Finally, examine the window regulator, which is responsible for guiding the window’s movement. If the regulator is damaged or stuck, it may cause the window to become inoperable. By following this systematic approach, you can efficiently identify the issue and take the necessary steps to restore your window’s functionality.

How urgent is it to address the malfunctioning window in my 1995 Subaru Legacy?

Addressing a malfunctioning window in your 1995 Subaru Legacy is not just a matter of convenience; it is crucial for your safety and the overall integrity of your vehicle. A malfunctioning window can significantly compromise your car's security, making it an easy target for theft or unauthorized access. Additionally, if you encounter inclement weather, a broken window can expose your vehicle's interior to rain or snow, leading to potential damage to upholstery and electronic components. This exposure can result in costly repairs down the line. Furthermore, visibility is paramount while driving, and a malfunctioning window can obstruct your view, creating a dangerous situation on the road. By delaying repairs, you risk exacerbating the problem, which could lead to further damage to the window mechanism, such as the regulator or motor, ultimately increasing repair costs. Therefore, it is advisable to prioritize fixing the window promptly to ensure your safety, maintain your vehicle's security, and prevent additional complications.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 1995 Subaru Legacy to stop working?

When troubleshooting window issues in a 1995 Subaru Legacy, it's essential to consider several common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is power window failure, often linked to electrical problems within the vehicle's complex wiring system. A blown fuse or damaged wiring can disrupt the power supply to the windows, rendering them inoperable. Additionally, a malfunctioning window regulator can prevent the window from moving, as this mechanical component is responsible for the window's up-and-down motion. If the window is stuck, it may also indicate a faulty window motor, which is crucial for the window's operation. Lastly, issues with the window guide can lead to the window sticking or not functioning smoothly. By understanding these potential issues, DIYers can effectively diagnose the problem and take the necessary steps to restore window functionality in their Subaru Legacy.

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1995 Subaru Legacy Window Issues: Causes & Repairs