This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the front power window motor on a 2015 Kia Forte, including door panel removal and electrical disconnect.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front power window motor (driver or passenger side) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Door panel clips (replacement set) × 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 electrical system discharge
3. Lower window to approximately mid-height position before disconnecting battery
4. Gather all tools and new parts before beginning
5. Protect exterior door surfaces with masking tape if desired

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove door panel fasteners
   Remove the Phillips screw located inside the door pull handle. Remove the Phillips screw behind the interior door handle trim (pry off small cover cap first). Remove any additional screws along the bottom edge of the door panel.
2. 2

   Disconnect door panel electrical connectors
   Carefully pry out the power window switch assembly from the armrest using a panel tool. Disconnect the electrical connector by pressing the release tab. If equipped, disconnect any additional connectors for power mirrors or door locks.
3. 3

   Remove door panel
   Insert panel removal tools around the perimeter of the door panel and carefully disengage the retaining clips. Lift the door panel upward to release it from the window sill, then pull it away from the door. Set the panel aside in a safe location with the clips facing up.
   ⚠Work slowly around the perimeter to avoid breaking clips. Apply even pressure when lifting.
4. 4

   Remove moisture barrier
   Carefully peel back the plastic moisture barrier from the door frame. Only remove enough of the barrier to access the window motor area, typically the lower half. Avoid tearing the barrier as it must be reused for proper door sealing.
5. 5

   Support window glass
   Temporarily reconnect the battery and raise the window to the full-up position using the power window switch. Disconnect the battery again. Secure the window glass in the raised position using masking tape from the glass to the door frame, or insert blocks between the glass and door frame to prevent dropping.
   ⚠Glass must be fully supported before proceeding. Unsupported glass may fall and shatter when the regulator is disconnected.
6. 6

   Disconnect window motor electrical connector
   Locate the power window motor electrical connector inside the door. Press the release tab and disconnect the connector from the motor. Note the connector routing for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove window motor mounting bolts
   Locate the three mounting bolts securing the window motor to the regulator assembly. These are typically 10mm bolts. Remove all mounting bolts while supporting the motor. The motor may be integrated with the regulator on some assemblies; if so, you may need to remove additional regulator mounting bolts from the door frame.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Remove window motor
   Carefully extract the window motor from inside the door through the access opening. Maneuver the motor around any obstructions. If the motor is integrated with the regulator, the entire assembly will need to be removed as one unit.
9. 9

   Install new window motor
   Position the new window motor into the door and align it with the mounting holes on the regulator or door frame. Ensure all electrical connector routing is clear of moving parts and sharp edges. Install the mounting bolts finger-tight, then torque to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating.
   ℹ️Verify the motor gear properly meshes with the regulator mechanism before final tightening.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical and test
    Connect the window motor electrical connector ensuring it clicks into place. Temporarily reconnect the battery negative terminal. Test window operation through full up and down cycles to verify proper motor function and smooth operation. Disconnect battery again before continuing.
    ⚠Remove any tape or blocks supporting the window before testing. Keep hands clear of window path during testing.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall moisture barrier
    Carefully reposition the moisture barrier against the door frame, ensuring complete coverage and adhesion around all edges. Press firmly to restore the seal. Replace barrier if adhesive is compromised.
12. 12

    Reinstall door panel
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the window switch and any other components. Position the door panel, engaging the top edge over the window sill first, then press firmly around the perimeter to seat all retaining clips. Install all screws and tighten to specification. Reinstall any trim covers.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification
2. Perform window auto-up/auto-down relearn procedure if equipped: fully lower window, then fully raise and hold switch up for 2 seconds
3. Verify all door panel screws and trim pieces are securely installed
4. Test all door functions including locks, mirrors, and window operation

Verification

• Operate window through multiple full cycles to confirm smooth operation without binding or unusual noise
• Verify window reaches full-up position and seals properly against weatherstripping
• Check that window auto-reverse function operates correctly if equipped
• Inspect door panel for proper fitment with no gaps or loose clips
• Verify no rattles or abnormal sounds from door panel during window operation

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