cdngrl

So, my window decided it didn't want to work anymore on the driver's side. So I read how to remove the door panel, which I did, but now I can't get the door panel back on. I was able to get the 2 screws in but it's definitely not aligned properly at all. Any advice?? Thnx

djs2571

I don't think there's any trick to ligning things up - as long as the door handle comes through ok. Just get all the push pin snap things ligned up and you're good to go.
What model year / trim level?

cdngrl

I got the screws in, but I can't snap it in place. It's def not aligned properly bc I can't open and close the door properly. For some reason it won't snap in. It's def not flush with the window either. It's a 2007 Mazda 3 Hatchback.

djs2571

the top of the panel needs to sit over the top edge near the window first. That should line it all up so the rest of it falls down into place. And the screws are the last thing to put in, only after the door panel is properly in place otherwise.
If you have the small tweeter speakers in the doors, they have to come off (the plastic triangle) to get the door panel in properly / easily.

cdngrl

Thanks! I finally got it back on. First time I tried to do it, the window was up and I couldn't put it down because it wasn't working. It started working again and I was able to get it on easily with the window down. I still need to figure out why my window doesn't want to work sometimes...

djs2571

When windows stick at full open or full closed only, it's usually the motor brushes that have burned a little spot on the motor commutator (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commutator_(electric) if you care to look)
That is repairable if you pull the motor apart, its the kind of thing i'd do, but you have to have some good mechanical abilities.

If it stops working no matter the window position it's probably the switch. Those like to burn the contacts too (I added seperate controllers on my windows so I don't run into that issue down the road). But that's also fixable by pulling the switch apart and cleaning it.

If it's all the windows that are doing it, it could be the lockout switch, or some fuse / ground connection. The door has a wiring harness, and while it's quite soon for some of the wires to be breaking - that is something you see on older vehicles.

Good luck with the window - let me know if you need further assistance. From your name i'll guess you're in canada - probably not a way to help in person.

cdngrl

Well the window just didn't roll down when it was up. The switch was clicking and when I took of the panel and pressed the button the motor was clicking too. So I guess it's a motor problem?? I might just go ahead and buy a new motor. $50 sounds a lot better than the hunderds of dollars the dealership wanted to charge me.

BTW, I live in Illinois. I'm a CDN expat

djs2571

Illinois is still far away - welcome to the states

If the motor is clicking it is probably a mechanical bind instead of an electrical problem. I've only had the window regulator partway out, but it looks fairly simple, not sure where something would bind up.

Do take the window out when messing with the motor, it's an easy 2 bolts that are accessable through door panel cutouts when the window is most of the way down. You may check ebay for a used window regulator, or a junkyard if you can find one... that way you can break someone elses car to get everything apart

cdngrl

Why do I need to take the window out? That sounds difficult... Also whats the difference between the motor and the window regulator? Thanks for all your help btw

cdngrl

I looked it up and I understand the difference btwn the regulator and the motor...but if the motor was just clicking wouldn't that probably be the problem?

jrhayes3

no sounds like the regulator is binding. you might be able to get the regulator with motor and that would be best but i dont know if the come togather. your best bet would be to call a mazda dealer to see if they come together and it would be better to buy oem parts anyways.

cdngrl

Ok, sounds like I have my work cut out for me.

Thanks for all the help!