Power Window Failed - Fixed Easily

[71GMC_3/4T]

My passenger side power window wouldn't go down today when I tried it. I don't remember the last time I used it, but it's been within a month. This is in my 2003 K2500HD CCSB.

It would click, but not move.

The seat heater worked, as did the power lock. The courtesy light worked and so did the power mirror.

 

So, I pulled the door panel off and checked to see if I was putting power to the motor. I was. It's the two outside (brown and blue) heavy wires in the front most connector. The black and orange are the +12V. When I clicked the switch, I got + or - 10V across the brown and blue wires, so I guessed the relay was fair, although I'd expect a full 12V. Maybe a series resistor to keep you from burning up the motor or relay?

 

Anyway, it had power, so while I had the switch in the down position, I whacked the motor with my hand. It worked! I've seen this before where brushes get stuck or build up crud under them. For some reason, this truck seems to have gremlins like that, and I don't know why.

 

When the window went down, it did make somewhat of a racket, so I sprayed the tracks with some lube and put it all back together. I'm not sure how long it will work, but at least it works for now.

 

By the way, that door panel is a mofo to get off if you haven't done it before! It is actually very easy after you get the two screws out and lift up on the whole panel. I was also trying to pry off the manual lock slider, but I finally figured out the whole bezel and all comes off! The switch "block" or whatever you want to call it can't be removed until you have the door panel off. There is a screw at the front from underneath.

 

Anyhow, since this seems to be a fairly common problem, I thought I'd post it for others in case theirs is as simple as this one. I always figured the driver's door would be the first to go.

 

I hope this helps someone!