How to Get a Car Window Back on Track

by Nichole Liandi

The principles of the window door track are pretty much the same for all cars: the glass moves up or down by the actuation of a scissors-style lift that's operated by the crank handle or motor, and the glass is held in the correct position as it moves by rubber-lined tracks on either end of the pane of glass. A loose track, or loose rubber lining, may allow the window to pop out of the track, where it gets stuck.

Step 1

Identify the problem. If your window is stuck in one position (often all the way down) and will not move, and if the crank handle or window motor are still operating, the window is probably off the track.

Step 2

Remove the door panel. Examine the panel for screws and bolts, and remove them first. Then take off the door crank handle, if necessary.

Step 3

Pop the door panel off by inserting the panel tool behind the edges of the door panel and popping it off. Unplug any wiring, and place the door panel to the side. You now have access to the interior of the door and the glass panel.

Step 4

Drop the lift for the door glass all the way down so you have the maximum amount of room to work with the glass. Check the position of the glass in relation to the tracks, and move the glass to replace it in the tracks. Check for breaks, pinches or other obstructions in the track and its rubber lining.

Move the glass so that it is resting on the lift, and test the operation several times. Check for any binding points or loose attachments of the tracks. When you're satisfied all is well, replace the door panel, going in reverse order to the disassembly procedure.

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