Vehicle-window and mirror problems are not all the same. A window that will not move can involve a mechanism or electrical component. Broken rear glass usually calls for vehicle-specific replacement. A damaged side mirror may involve only the reflective glass or the complete assembly.
Power-window problems begin with the symptom
A power window can stop moving, become slow, sit crooked in the frame, drop inside the door or make a grinding or clicking sound. The symptom tells you there is a problem, but it does not always identify the failed part.
Possible areas involved can include the window regulator, motor, switch, wiring, glass alignment and related hardware. The actual cause needs to be assessed on the vehicle.
Avoid forcing a jammed window
Repeatedly pressing the switch when the glass is stuck, tilted or making an unusual sound may not resolve the problem. Call Tony’s and explain which window is affected and what happens when the switch is used.
See Power Window Repair or read Why Won’t My Power Window Go Up?
Rear glass damage needs vehicle-specific attention
Rear windows are often made differently from windshields. Depending on the vehicle, rear glass may include defrosting elements, antenna connections, mouldings or other integrated features.
When rear glass is shattered, limit contact with loose pieces and protect the vehicle from weather where practical. A temporary covering is not a permanent repair. Tony’s needs the vehicle year, make and model to identify the appropriate glass.
See Rear Window Replacement or read What to Do After Rear Glass Shatters.
Broken side glass creates a different situation
Side windows can be damaged by an impact, break-in or mechanical problem. Broken glass can expose the interior to weather and affect security. If the glass is loose or shattered, avoid unnecessary handling and keep people away from sharp pieces.
The door and window mechanism may also need attention when the glass has dropped, moved out of alignment or stopped operating correctly.
Side-view mirror damage can involve more than glass
A mirror problem may be limited to the reflective glass. It may also involve the housing, adjustment mechanism, heating, folding, indicators, a camera or other fitted equipment.
The correct part needs to match the vehicle and the equipment already installed. Tell Tony’s whether the driver or passenger side is affected, whether the housing is damaged and which functions still work.
See Side View Mirror Service or read Can Just the Side Mirror Glass Be Replaced?
What to have ready when you call
- Vehicle year, make and model
- Which door, window or mirror is affected
- What happened before the problem started
- Whether the glass is cracked, shattered, crooked or missing
- Whether the switch, heating, folding or adjustment still works
- Whether the vehicle is exposed to weather
You do not need to identify the failed component. The goal of the call is to describe the situation clearly enough for Tony’s to explain the next step.
Questions drivers often ask
Why will my power window not go up?
Several mechanical or electrical causes are possible. The vehicle needs to be assessed before the failed part can be confirmed.
Can rear glass be repaired like a windshield chip?
Rear glass is constructed differently on many vehicles. Replacement is often the applicable service, but Tony’s needs to confirm the glass and damage.
Can only the side-mirror glass be replaced?
Sometimes. The answer depends on the vehicle and the condition of the housing and fitted equipment.
Can Tony’s diagnose the problem over the phone?
The phone conversation helps narrow the situation. A final diagnosis may require inspection.