Window Motor and Regulator - Rear

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear window motor and regulator assembly on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew cab or double cab.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear window regulator with motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Door panel retaining clips × 1 — Replace as needed
• Water barrier sheet adhesive × 1 — If original is damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
3. Open rear door fully and support with door prop or have assistant hold if needed
4. Roll window fully up if still operational; if not, plan to manually support glass during removal

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove door panel trim components
   Remove the door pull/armrest cover by prying gently with trim tool. Remove two 7mm screws behind the cover. If equipped, carefully pry out the power window/lock switch assembly and disconnect the electrical connector by pressing the release tab.
2. 2

   Remove door panel fasteners
   Remove all Torx T30 screws around the perimeter of the door panel (typically 2 in door pull area, 1 near door latch, and 1-2 along bottom edge). Locate and remove any 7mm screws at bottom of panel if present.
3. 3

   Detach and remove door panel
   Lift door panel upward approximately 1 inch to disengage from window sill, then pull panel away from door frame. Use trim tools to release any remaining retaining clips. Disconnect any remaining electrical connectors for speakers or courtesy lights. Set panel aside in safe location.
4. 4

   Remove water barrier
   Carefully peel back the plastic water barrier sheet starting from one corner. Work slowly to avoid tearing the adhesive. If barrier tears, plan to replace with new adhesive. Only remove enough of the barrier to access the window regulator and motor assembly.
5. 5

   Support window glass
   Raise window to approximately 4-6 inches from fully closed position. Secure glass in this position using masking tape by taping from top edge of glass to door frame, or have assistant hold glass. This prevents glass from falling when regulator is disconnected.
6. 6

   Disconnect window motor electrical connector
   Locate the window motor electrical connector inside the door cavity. Press the connector release tab and pull connector straight off motor terminals. Move wiring harness aside to provide clearance for regulator removal.
7. 7

   Detach window glass from regulator
   Locate the two 10mm bolts or nuts securing the window glass channel to the regulator lift arms. These are typically accessed through service holes in the door frame. Remove both fasteners and carefully disconnect glass from regulator arms. Ensure glass is securely taped or supported.
8. 8

   Remove regulator mounting bolts
   Locate and remove all regulator mounting bolts. Typically there are 3-4 bolts: two or three 10mm bolts securing the regulator track to the door frame, and mounting bolts for the motor assembly. Note the position and orientation of the regulator for installation reference.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Remove regulator assembly from door
   Carefully maneuver the regulator and motor assembly out through the largest service opening in the door frame. The regulator may need to be tilted, rotated, or partially collapsed to fit through the opening. Work slowly to avoid damaging the door frame or inner components.
10. 10

    Install new regulator assembly
    Position the new window regulator and motor assembly into the door cavity, maneuvering it through the service opening. Align the regulator mounting holes with the door frame mounting points. Verify the regulator is oriented correctly by comparing to the old unit and your reference notes.
11. 11

    Install regulator mounting bolts
    Install all regulator mounting bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Once all bolts are started, torque the mounting bolts to specification. Ensure the regulator sits flush against the door frame and operates smoothly by hand.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect window glass to regulator
    Remove tape supporting the window glass. Lower glass carefully and align the glass channel with the regulator lift arm attachment points. Install the two 10mm bolts or nuts and tighten securely. Ensure glass is level and moves smoothly in the channels.
13. 13

    Reconnect electrical and test operation
    Connect the electrical connector to the window motor, ensuring it clicks into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Before reinstalling door panel, test window operation through full up and down travel multiple times to verify smooth operation and proper alignment.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Reinstall water barrier and door panel
    Press the water barrier sheet back into place, ensuring good adhesion around all edges. Replace barrier if damaged. Reconnect all door panel electrical connectors. Align door panel with retaining clips and window sill, press firmly to engage clips, then reinstall all T30 screws and 7mm screws. Reinstall switch assembly and trim covers.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with audible clicks
2. Verify water barrier is properly sealed to prevent moisture intrusion into door cavity
3. Replace any broken door panel clips to ensure secure panel attachment
4. Test all door functions including window operation, locks, and speakers before completing job

Verification

• Operate window through complete up and down cycle at least 5 times, verifying smooth operation with no binding or unusual noises
• Verify window seats properly at full up position with good seal against weatherstripping
• Check that window auto-up and auto-down features function correctly if equipped
• Inspect door panel for proper fitment with no gaps or loose clips
• Verify all door panel switches and controls operate normally

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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