Quote:
Originally Posted by Ricky Bobby
I'm more interested in what window regulator parts you have available, does this mean you can repair your existing window regulator if it fails using your parts only?
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Most window problems are caused by one of the 2 (in front windows) plastic regulator clips breaking. The cable is the pushing the window glass only on one side, which leads to binding and causes the window to slow down, stop or reverse when going up. When the 2nd clip breaks, the entire window may drop down.
The clips are made from POM: wiki explains as follows: Polyoxymethylene (POM), also known as acetal, polyacetal and polyformaldehyde, is an engineering thermoplastic used in precision parts requiring high stiffness, low friction and excellent dimensional stability. As with many other synthetic polymers, it is produced by different chemical firms with slightly different formulas and sold variously by such names as Delrin, Celcon, Ramtal, Duracon and Hostaform.
The clips break not from wear or excessive force, but rather form 'aging' and becoming brittle. The failure (5-10 years typically) is very common across all OEMs. Some clip designs are more prone to breakage then others. And even very large clips (Audi A4 B6 rear, Passat rear) fail at similar rate.
The OEM do not offer replacement parts (as with most modules on the car; you can't buy just the window motor either, but need to buy the entire module with electronics). The typical cost range of a regulator is $200-$400. Add labor for installation, changing a defective regulator can run anywhere from $400-$800.
When faced with this situation a few years ago, I refused and started my search (in Europe) for someone who is making the 'clips' that I needed. In the process, I also realized that LOTS of others are faced with the same problem (and also came across - in some cases fairly obscure - 'ghetto fix' solutions).
Based on my experience (ca. 10,000 or thereabouts of my clips are installed in cars today), I would guess that 90% of all failures are clips. In some cases, the failure of the clip leads to the cable loosing its tension (by jumping off the guide rollers) and getting kinked. In some cases, the cable itself corrodes or becomes 'frazzled' and not winding up properly anymore in the spiral groove of the drive pulley.
I hope this helps to shed some light into the DIY "RegulatorFix".
The short answer to your question therefore is: yes, in most cases, the clips DO fix your window regulator problem.