2016 Subaru Legacy Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Common Causes of Window Malfunctions in Your 2016 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 2016 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 2016 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 2016 Subaru Legacy?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in your 2016 Subaru Legacy, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex issues. Begin by inspecting the window switch for any visible signs of wear or debris that could impede its functionality. If the switch appears intact, utilize a multimeter to test its electrical output, ensuring it is working correctly. Next, check the power window fuse located in the fuse box under the dashboard on the driver's side; a blown fuse can often be the culprit behind window malfunctions. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider performing a window reset, which can rectify problems related to sluggish motors or mechanical glitches. Should the window still remain unresponsive, you may need to remove the door panel to access the window regulator motor, which is responsible for the window's movement. Throughout this process, consulting your owner's manual can provide valuable insights and specific instructions tailored to your vehicle. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the underlying cause of the window issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2016 Subaru Legacy to stop working?

When dealing with a non-functioning window in your 2016 Subaru Legacy, it's essential to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the first areas to investigate is the electrical system, as issues like a blown fuse or a faulty relay can disrupt the window's operation. If the electrical components are functioning correctly, the next step is to examine the window motor, which is responsible for the movement of the window. A malfunctioning motor can cause the window to operate intermittently or not at all. Additionally, the window regulator, which facilitates the mechanical movement of the window, could be broken or jammed, leading to similar issues. By systematically checking these components, you can identify the root cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to repair it, making your DIY troubleshooting more efficient and effective.

How urgent is it to fix the malfunctioning window on a 2016 Subaru Legacy that won't go up or down?

When faced with a malfunctioning window on your 2016 Subaru Legacy, the urgency of the repair cannot be overstated. A window that won't go up or down not only disrupts your daily routine but also poses significant safety and security risks. For instance, an open window can make your vehicle vulnerable to theft or unwanted entry, while a malfunctioning window motor may lead to further complications, such as damage to the window regulator or electrical system. Additionally, if the issue arises after a battery jump, it may require a simple reset of the window switches, which can be an easy DIY fix if addressed promptly. Ignoring these symptoms can escalate the problem, potentially leading to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and resolve the issue as soon as possible, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and functional while also providing you with peace of mind during your travels.

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