Power Window Regulator - Rear

This procedure removes and replaces the rear window regulator assembly on a 2005 Dodge Viper, requiring door panel disassembly and regulator bolt removal.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear window regulator assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Door panel trim clips (if damaged) × 1 — Mopar part numbers vary by clip location

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
2. Lower the rear window to approximately halfway position to access regulator mounting bolts through door access holes.
3. Gather all tools and the replacement regulator assembly before beginning disassembly.
4. Protect painted surfaces around the door with painter's tape if desired.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Door Panel Lower Trim Fasteners
   Using a T30 Torx driver, remove the Torx screws securing the lower portion of the door panel. There are typically 2-3 screws along the bottom edge and lower side of the panel. Note their locations for reinstallation.
2. 2

   Remove Door Handle Escutcheon
   Locate the interior door handle trim bezel. Use a trim panel tool to carefully pry the escutcheon away from the door panel, starting at the rear edge. Release the retaining clips and remove the bezel to expose the handle mounting area.
3. 3

   Remove Door Panel Upper Fasteners
   Using a T30 Torx driver, remove the Torx screws at the upper portion of the door panel near the mirror base and armrest area. Check behind any small trim covers or caps that may conceal additional fasteners.
4. 4

   Release Door Panel Clips and Remove Panel
   Insert a trim panel removal tool between the door panel and inner door structure, starting at the bottom rear corner. Work around the perimeter to release the retaining clips. Lift the panel upward to disengage it from the window sill, then pull it away from the door. Disconnect any electrical connectors for window switches or courtesy lights as the panel clears the door.
5. 5

   Peel Back Vapor Barrier (If Present)
   If a plastic vapor barrier or moisture shield is present over the door cavity, carefully peel it back from the top and sides to expose the window regulator assembly. Avoid tearing the barrier; use care around adhesive areas.
6. 6

   Support Window Glass
   Raise or lower the window to a position where the glass is stable and can be secured. Use painter's tape to secure the glass to the door frame or insert wooden blocks between the glass and door sill to prevent the glass from dropping when the regulator is disconnected. Ensure the glass is firmly supported.
7. 7

   Disconnect Window Motor Electrical Connector
   Locate the window motor electrical connector attached to the regulator motor. Press the locking tab and disconnect the connector. Tuck the wiring harness aside to prevent interference during regulator removal.
8. 8

   Detach Regulator from Window Glass
   Through the access holes in the inner door structure, locate the 2 bolts securing the regulator lift plate to the bottom channel of the window glass. Using a 10mm socket, remove these bolts. Carefully separate the regulator mechanism from the glass. The glass should remain supported by the tape or blocks installed in step 6.
9. 9

   Remove Regulator Mounting Bolts
   Locate the regulator assembly mounting bolts securing the regulator track and motor to the inner door structure. Using a T40 Torx driver or 10mm socket as appropriate, remove the 4 mounting bolts. Note the location and orientation of each bolt, as lengths may vary.
10. 10

    Extract Regulator Assembly
    Carefully maneuver the regulator assembly through the access opening in the inner door structure. The regulator may need to be tilted or rotated to clear the door frame. Remove the old regulator from the door and set aside.
11. 11

    Install New Regulator Assembly
    Position the new regulator assembly near the door opening. Carefully insert the regulator through the access hole, maneuvering it into position with the mounting holes aligned to the inner door structure. Ensure the regulator track is properly oriented to mate with the window glass lift plate.
12. 12

    Install Regulator Mounting Bolts
    Install the 4 regulator mounting bolts through the regulator base plate and into the inner door structure. Hand-tighten all bolts first, then torque to the appropriate specification using a T40 Torx driver or 10mm socket. Ensure the regulator is seated flush against the door structure.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Attach Regulator to Window Glass
    Align the regulator lift plate with the bottom channel of the window glass. Insert the 2 mounting bolts through the lift plate and into the glass channel. Using a 10mm socket, torque the bolts to secure the regulator to the glass.
14. 14

    Connect Window Motor Electrical Connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the window motor. Press firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Ensure the connection is secure and the wiring is routed away from moving regulator components.
15. 15

    Test Window Operation
    Remove the tape or blocks supporting the window glass. Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine does not need to run). Test the window operation using the door switch. Cycle the window fully up and down multiple times to verify smooth operation, proper alignment, and that the window seals correctly at the top. Listen for unusual noises or binding.
16. 16

    Reinstall Vapor Barrier and Door Panel
    If the vapor barrier was peeled back, press it firmly back into place around the perimeter, ensuring all adhesive areas are sealed. Reconnect any electrical connectors for switches or lights. Position the door panel over the door, engaging the top edge over the window sill first, then press the panel firmly against the door to seat all retaining clips.
17. 17

    Reinstall Door Panel Fasteners
    Install all Torx screws removed in steps 1 and 3 using a T30 Torx driver. Do not overtighten plastic-mounted screws. Reinstall the door handle escutcheon by aligning the clips and pressing firmly until it snaps into place.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all door panel clips are fully seated before driving; loose panels can rattle or detach.
2. Verify the window operates smoothly through its full range before returning the vehicle to service.
3. If any door panel clips were broken during removal, replace them before reinstalling the panel to ensure a secure fit.

Verification

• Cycle the rear window up and down at least five times, confirming smooth operation without binding, unusual noise, or hesitation.
• Check that the window seals properly at the top of its travel and sits flush with the door frame.
• Verify the door panel is securely attached with no loose clips or gaps.
• Confirm all door panel switches and features (if equipped) function correctly.

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