2016 Volvo S60 Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2016 Volvo S60 Windows and Effective Repair Solutions

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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 2016 Volvo S60 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 fail or operate intermittently.
  • 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 Volvo S60 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.

If the door window motor fails, the window may not open or close, or it may operate intermittently. Traditionally, problems with power windows were caused by faulty switches or electrical wiring - especially the wires running between the door and the vehicle body that are subjected to repeated flexing. In these cases, the window might operate intermittently when the door is opened and closed. While this may still be the case on newer cars, it is increasingly common to find window motor problems that originate with a control module. Still, the switches and wiring should be checked thoroughly before replacing a window motor.

If one of the windows in a vehicle will not open or close properly, a failing door window regulator might be the cause. A window that is moving intermittently, or one that gets stuck on the way up or down, could also indicate a broken regulator. Other symptoms might include a clicking, chattering, or grinding noise when the window moves. In some cases a severely damaged window regulator could cause the window to drop inside the door.

When a switch can not make contact and close the circuit, the window cannot be raised and lowered. If the switch on the driver's door will not raise or lower the window in question, but the switch on the corresponding door works just fine, this is a good indication that there is a switch failure. This works the other way around, as well. If the switch on the door does not cause the window to function, but the driver's switch does, that is an indication of a passenger door window switch failure.

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 Volvo S60?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in your 2016 Volvo S60, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by observing the window's behavior; if it moves sluggishly, this may indicate a problem with the window motor or debris obstructing the tracks. Next, consider performing a window reset, as this can often resolve issues related to the auto up/down functions. If the window still does not operate correctly, inspect the fuse associated with the window system in the fuse box to ensure it is intact and functioning. Finally, if these initial steps do not yield results, using an OBD2 scanner can help identify any fault codes related to the window system, providing further insight into the issue. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently pinpoint the cause of the malfunction and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the window in a 2016 Volvo S60 to stop functioning?

When troubleshooting window issues in a 2016 Volvo S60, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise. One prevalent issue is poor installation, which can lead to leaks and drafts, compromising the window's integrity and functionality. Additionally, a defective Central Electronic Module (CEM) can significantly impact window operations, particularly under extreme weather conditions or when driving on uneven surfaces. This module is crucial for the coordination of various electronic components, and any malfunction can result in erratic window behavior. Furthermore, the power window system relies on multiple interconnected components, and even minor faults in these parts can disrupt the entire mechanism. By identifying these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address window malfunctions in their Volvo S60, ensuring a smoother and more effective repair process.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning window in a 2016 Volvo S60?

When considering the urgency of repairing a non-functioning window in your 2016 Volvo S60, it's crucial to recognize the potential implications of neglecting the issue. A window that is stuck either open or closed can significantly compromise your comfort and safety while driving. Moreover, if the problem stems from a faulty window regulator or motor, delaying repairs may exacerbate the situation, leading to more extensive damage and increased repair costs down the line. Additionally, a malfunctioning window could indicate deeper electrical or mechanical issues that might affect other systems in your vehicle, posing further risks. If the window fails to seal properly, it not only exposes your car to the elements but also increases the likelihood of theft, especially in adverse weather conditions. Furthermore, a non-functioning window can detract from the overall aesthetics and functionality of your Volvo S60, potentially impacting its resale value. Therefore, addressing the issue promptly is advisable to maintain the safety, comfort, and integrity of your vehicle.

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2016 Volvo S60 Window Issues: Causes & Repair Costs