This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear window motor and regulator assembly on a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, including proper electrical disconnection and reassembly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear window regulator assembly with motor × 1 — Mopar 68059546AB or equivalent
• Door panel clips (assorted) × 1 — Replace any damaged clips
• Vapor barrier tape (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Roll rear window to full up position using power window switch
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
4. Prepare clean workspace for storing interior trim panels and hardware

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Loosen and remove the negative battery terminal using a 10mm socket. Move cable away from battery post and secure to prevent accidental reconnection.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove rear door trim panel
   Remove the T30 Torx screws from the door panel (typically 2-3 screws located in armrest and pull handle areas). Use trim panel removal tools to carefully release the perimeter clips by prying outward at clip locations. Lift panel upward to disengage from door frame and set aside on protected surface.
3. 3

   Disconnect door electrical connectors
   Locate the electrical connector for the window motor behind the door panel. Press the release tab and disconnect the connector. If applicable, disconnect any additional connectors for door locks or speakers. Mark connectors with tape if necessary for reassembly reference.
4. 4

   Peel back vapor barrier
   Carefully peel back the plastic vapor barrier sheet to access the window regulator assembly. Work slowly to avoid tearing the barrier. If adhesive is damaged, prepare new vapor barrier tape for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Secure window glass
   Verify window glass is in full up position. Use masking tape across the top of the door frame and window glass to hold glass in the up position and prevent it from falling during regulator removal.
6. 6

   Disconnect window from regulator
   Locate the two bolts securing the window glass to the regulator lift mechanism through the access holes in the door frame. Use a 10mm socket to remove these bolts. Carefully disconnect the glass from the regulator while supporting the glass weight.
7. 7

   Remove regulator mounting bolts
   Locate all regulator mounting bolts (typically 4-6 bolts) securing the regulator assembly to the door frame. Use a 10mm socket to remove these mounting bolts. Support the regulator assembly as you remove the final bolts to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Remove regulator assembly
   Carefully maneuver the window regulator and motor assembly out through the large access hole in the door frame. Guide the assembly to avoid catching on door structure or window glass. The assembly may need to be tilted and rotated to clear the opening.
9. 9

   Install new regulator assembly
   Guide the new regulator and motor assembly into the door through the access hole. Position the assembly so all mounting bolt holes align with the door frame mounting points. Thread in all mounting bolts finger-tight before torquing.
   ⚠Ensure regulator cables are not pinched or kinked during installation
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Torque regulator mounting bolts
    Using a torque wrench, tighten all regulator mounting bolts to 39.0 Nm (29.0 lb-ft) in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure distribution.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect window glass to regulator
    Align the window glass mounting brackets with the regulator lift mechanism through the access holes. Install the two 10mm bolts and tighten securely but do not overtorque. Remove the masking tape holding the glass in the up position.
12. 12

    Test window operation before reassembly
    Temporarily reconnect the negative battery terminal and window motor electrical connector. Test window operation through full up and down travel to ensure smooth movement and proper alignment. Listen for unusual noises. Disconnect battery again before continuing.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reinstall vapor barrier and door panel
    Reposition the vapor barrier ensuring proper adhesion around the perimeter. Apply new tape if original adhesive is insufficient. Reconnect all electrical connectors. Align the door panel onto the door frame, engaging the top edge first, then press firmly around the perimeter to seat all clips. Install and torque T30 screws to secure the panel.
14. 14

    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to 8.0 Nm (6.0 lb-ft). Ensure connection is clean and secure.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with audible clicks
2. Verify all door panel clips are properly engaged before operating window
3. Check that vapor barrier is completely sealed to prevent water intrusion

Verification

• Test window operation through full range of motion multiple times to verify smooth operation
• Listen for unusual grinding or clicking noises during window operation
• Verify window seals properly at top of frame when fully closed
• Check that auto-up and auto-down functions work properly if equipped
• Inspect door panel fit and ensure all trim pieces are secure

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