2004 Subaru Legacy Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2004 Subaru Legacy 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 2004 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 2004 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 steps should I take to diagnose the window issue in my 2004 Subaru Legacy?

When diagnosing a window issue in your 2004 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 fuse and relay associated with the window's electrical system, as a blown fuse is often the most straightforward fix. If the fuse is intact, inspect the window motor for any signs of malfunction, as a faulty motor can lead to intermittent operation or complete failure. Next, examine the window regulator, which is crucial for the window's movement; a broken regulator can prevent the window from functioning altogether. Additionally, test the window switch to ensure it is operational, as a defective switch can also hinder window movement. Don't forget to check for any obstructions in the window track that might impede its operation. If all these components appear to be in working order, inspect the wiring for any damage or disconnections. Finally, if you're still experiencing issues, consider cleaning the circuit board, as this can sometimes resolve electrical problems without the need for replacement parts. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the window issue in your Subaru Legacy.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning window in a 2004 Subaru Legacy?

Addressing the issue of a non-functioning window in your 2004 Subaru Legacy is not just a matter of convenience; it is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. Neglecting this problem can lead to significant safety risks, such as impaired visibility while driving, which can increase the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, a window that won't close properly can leave your vehicle vulnerable to theft or unwanted pests, compromising your security. Beyond safety, the inconvenience of a malfunctioning window can disrupt daily activities, making simple tasks like using a drive-thru or toll booth frustrating. Moreover, delaying repairs can exacerbate the underlying electrical issues, potentially leading to more extensive and costly damage to the power window system. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of your Subaru's window to ensure a safe, secure, and hassle-free driving experience.

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2004 Subaru Legacy Window Issues: Causes & Repair Costs