Window regulators allow car windows to be raised and lowered. They were originally manual, but now most are automated. Power windows are now standard and rear window regulators are common. Wear and tear can cause problems, and replacing a regulator can be expensive.
Window regulators are components that allow the window glass of a vehicle to be lowered and raised at will. In some cases, the governor is manual, requiring a person to operate the governor movement with a hand crank. More commonly today, a window regulator is an automated device that is activated by pressing a toggle switch or button found on the car door armrest closest to the window.
With most vehicles, an automated window regulation system is set up so that the driver can control the movement of all the windows in the car or truck. This effectively allows drivers to adjust the front and rear seat windows without using the controls located on each of the vehicle’s passenger windows. Most makes and models continue to have individual controls located near each window, allowing passengers to open or close the nearest window without asking the driver to handle the task.
Before the mid-20th century, a window regulator was usually powered by a crank. The cranks were conveniently located along the door panel, making it easy for anyone sitting near the window to simply grab the crank and turn it clockwise or counterclockwise to open and close the window. As the crank was turned, a plate that supported the glass window would lower or raise the window to the desired position. The crank construction made it possible to position the window so that it was fully closed or open, or open to a level that was to the liking of the passenger or driver.
By the 1960s, the power window regulator was receiving widespread attention. Instead of operating the mechanism with a crank, this new innovation made it possible to open and close car windows by flipping a switch or pressing a button on a control console. Originally, this feature was offered as an add-on or luxury item on many makes and models. However, by the late 1970s, the inclusion of power windows was considered a standard feature by most vehicle manufacturers.
Over time, the rear window regulator came into common use. Along with windows located near the driver and passenger seating area, the ability to raise and lower the rear window of an SUV, minivan, or pickup truck became desirable to consumers. This option was also considered a factory extra at one time, but is now generally included as a basic feature on vehicles sold today.
As with any type of mechanical component, a window regulator maintains wear after years of repeated use. The origin of the problem with a power window regulator is usually based on the small motor that controls the movement of the window. When the engine starts to wear out, the governor may not respond as efficiently to the push of a button. Often replacing the motor will restore full functionality.
However, there are situations where the problem with the governor is more complex than just a worn motor. When this is the case, it may be necessary to replace the entire regulator. Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, replacing a power window regulator can be quite expensive.
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