1996 Subaru Legacy Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 1996 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 1996 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 1996 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 window that won't operate in a 1996 Subaru Legacy?

When diagnosing a window that won't operate in a 1996 Subaru Legacy, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the window switch on the driver's side, as a malfunctioning switch can often be the culprit. If the driver's switch fails to operate the passenger window while the passenger switch works, this indicates a potential issue with the driver's switch itself. Next, listen for the window motor; if you hear it whirring when you press the switch but the window remains stationary, the problem may lie with the motor or the window regulator. Inspecting the window regulator is crucial, as a faulty regulator can prevent the window from moving even if the motor is functioning. Additionally, examine the wiring for any signs of damage or disconnection, as electrical issues can also impede window operation. If all these components appear to be in working order, conducting an electrical diagnosis can help identify any hidden problems. Finally, test the window using both the driver's and passenger's switches to confirm whether the issue is isolated to one control or affects both. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and resolve the issue with your Subaru Legacy's window.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 1996 Subaru Legacy to stop working?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning window in a 1996 Subaru Legacy, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a broken window regulator, which is responsible for the mechanical movement of the window. If this component fails, the window may become stuck in place. Additionally, electrical problems are frequently encountered; issues such as blown fuses or damaged wiring can disrupt the power supply to the window system, rendering it inoperable. Another potential issue is a faulty window motor, which is crucial for the window's movement. If the motor is defective, it will prevent the window from functioning correctly. Furthermore, the window switch itself may be malfunctioning, which can hinder the operation of the window. Lastly, problems with the window guide can also lead to difficulties, as a damaged guide may cause the window to stick or move unevenly. By understanding these common issues, DIYers can better diagnose the problem and take the necessary steps to restore their window's functionality.

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1996 Subaru Legacy Window Issues: Causes & Repair Costs