Power Window Motor - Rear

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear power window motor on a 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with the 2.5L I4 engine, including door panel removal and electrical disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear power window motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Door panel retaining clips (if broken) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for system discharge
3. Roll the rear window to approximately halfway position if motor is still functional
4. Gather all tools and new window motor assembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove door panel screws and covers
   Remove the door pull handle cover by gently prying it out with a trim tool. Remove the Phillips screws securing the door pull handle (typically 2 screws). Remove the screw cover on the door grab handle area and remove the screws underneath. If equipped, remove the tweeter speaker grille by prying gently.
2. 2

   Disconnect door switches
   Using a trim tool, carefully pry up the power window/lock switch assembly from the armrest. Disconnect the electrical connector by pressing the release tab and pulling straight up. Set the switch assembly aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove door panel
   Starting at the bottom rear corner, use door panel removal tools to disengage the retaining clips around the perimeter of the door panel. Work your way around the panel, applying even pressure to release each clip. Once all clips are released, lift the door panel upward to disengage it from the window sill, then pull it away from the door. Disconnect any remaining electrical connectors on the back of the panel.
4. 4

   Remove vapor barrier access
   Carefully peel back the lower portion of the plastic vapor barrier sheet to access the window motor mounting area. Only remove enough to access the motor - do not remove the entire barrier. Be careful not to tear the barrier as it provides water protection.
5. 5

   Support window glass
   Raise the window to the full up position. Use painter's tape or masking tape to secure the window glass to the door frame, preventing it from falling when the motor is disconnected. Place tape across the top of the glass and onto the door frame in at least two locations.
6. 6

   Disconnect window motor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the window motor. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight off the motor. If the connector is difficult to access, use an electrical connector pick to release the tab.
7. 7

   Disconnect window regulator from motor
   Locate the connection point between the window regulator mechanism and the motor drive gear. There may be a small retaining clip or bolt securing this connection. Remove the retainer and carefully separate the regulator arm from the motor drive.
8. 8

   Remove window motor mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the mounting bolts securing the window motor to the door frame. There are typically 3 bolts. Support the motor with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Carefully extract the motor through the access hole in the door frame.
9. 9

   Install new window motor
   Position the new window motor in the door frame, aligning the mounting holes. Thread in the mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Torque the mounting bolts to specification in a star pattern to ensure even pressure distribution.
10. 10

    Reconnect regulator and electrical
    Reconnect the window regulator arm to the motor drive gear and install the retaining clip or bolt. Connect the electrical connector to the motor, ensuring it clicks into place securely. Verify the connection is fully seated.
11. 11

    Test window operation
    Temporarily reconnect the negative battery terminal. Remove the tape securing the window glass. Test the window operation by cycling it up and down several times to ensure smooth operation and proper motor function. Listen for unusual noises. Once verified, disconnect the battery again for final reassembly.
12. 12

    Reinstall vapor barrier and door panel
    Press the vapor barrier back into position, ensuring all adhesive areas are properly sealed. Reconnect any electrical connectors to the back of the door panel. Position the door panel on the window sill and slide it downward to engage. Press firmly around the perimeter to seat all retaining clips. Reinstall the door pull handle and grab handle screws. Reconnect the window/lock switch assembly and press it into place.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all door panel clips are properly seated before applying pressure
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully engaged and locked
3. Check that the vapor barrier is properly sealed to prevent water intrusion
4. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft)

Verification

• Cycle the rear window up and down at least 5 times to verify smooth operation
• Test the window auto-up and auto-down features if equipped
• Listen for any abnormal grinding, clicking, or binding noises during operation
• Verify the window seats properly at the top and bottom positions
• Check that the door panel is secure with no rattles or loose clips
• Confirm all door switches and handles operate normally

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