This procedure covers removal and replacement of the rear power window motor on a 2015 Kia Forte sedan, including door panel removal and window regulator access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

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

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 3 minutes
3. Roll rear window to approximately 3/4 up position for easiest access
4. Prepare a clean work area to place door panel components

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove door panel fasteners
   Remove the screw cover cap from the door pull handle area. Remove the Phillips screw beneath it. Remove any additional screws from the bottom edge of the door panel (typically 2-3 screws). If equipped, carefully pry out the power window switch bezel using a panel tool, then disconnect the electrical connector.
2. 2

   Release door panel clips
   Starting at the bottom rear corner, use a panel removal tool to gently release the retaining clips around the perimeter of the door panel. Work your way around the panel, being careful not to break the clips. There are typically 8-10 clips securing the panel. Once all clips are released, lift the panel upward to disengage it from the door frame, then pull away from door.
3. 3

   Remove water barrier
   Carefully peel back the plastic water barrier sheet to access the window regulator and motor assembly. Only remove enough to access the motor mounting area. Keep the barrier intact for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Support window glass
   Secure the window glass in the up position using masking tape extending from the glass to the outer door frame. This prevents the window from dropping when the regulator is disconnected. Use at least 2 pieces of tape for adequate support.
5. 5

   Disconnect motor electrical connector
   Locate the power window motor electrical connector inside the door cavity. Press the locking tab and disconnect the connector from the motor. Ensure the connector is routed clear of the work area.
6. 6

   Remove motor mounting bolts
   Locate the three mounting bolts securing the window motor to the regulator assembly. Using a 10mm socket, remove all three bolts. Support the motor as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove old motor
   Carefully separate the motor from the regulator assembly. Note the orientation of the motor gear engagement with the regulator mechanism. Remove the motor through the access hole in the door frame.
8. 8

   Install new motor
   Position the new motor into the door cavity and align it with the regulator assembly mounting points. Ensure the motor gear properly engages with the regulator mechanism in the same orientation as the original. Start all three mounting bolts by hand before tightening.
9. 9

   Torque motor mounting bolts
   Using a torque wrench, tighten the three motor mounting bolts to 26 Nm (19 lb-ft) in a star pattern to ensure even seating of the motor against the regulator.
   Torque spec

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

    Reconnect electrical and test
    Reconnect the motor electrical connector. Temporarily reconnect the battery negative terminal to 6 Nm (4 lb-ft). Test window operation through full up and down travel before final reassembly. Verify smooth operation with no binding or unusual noises. Disconnect battery again for final reassembly.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Remove masking tape from window glass
2. Reposition water barrier sheet, ensuring complete adhesion around all edges to maintain water seal
3. Reconnect door panel electrical connectors if disconnected
4. Align door panel with door frame and engage top edge first, then press firmly around perimeter to seat all retaining clips
5. Reinstall all door panel screws and replace trim caps
6. Reconnect battery negative terminal and torque to 6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
7. Perform final window operation test and auto-up/down learning procedure if equipped

Verification

• Test window operation through full range of motion multiple times
• Verify window operates smoothly without hesitation, binding, or unusual noise
• Check that auto-up and auto-down features work properly if equipped
• Confirm door panel is securely fastened with no gaps or loose clips
• Verify all door panel switches and controls function correctly

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