Power Window Regulator - Rear

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

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear window regulator assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Door panel retaining clips (if damaged) × 1 — OEM replacement clips
• Vapor barrier adhesive (if damaged) × 1 — OEM vapor barrier tape

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake
2. Lower the rear window to approximately mid-travel position for easier access to regulator mounting bolts
3. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait 3 minutes before proceeding
4. Gather all tools and new regulator assembly before starting
5. Protect the door exterior with a soft cloth or towel to prevent scratches

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove door panel fasteners
   Remove the Phillips screw from inside the interior door pull handle. Use a plastic trim tool to carefully pry out the small cover behind the door latch handle, then remove the screw behind it. Remove any additional screws located at the bottom edge of the door panel.
2. 2

   Disconnect door panel electrical connectors
   Use a plastic trim tool to unclip the door panel retaining clips along the perimeter. Start at the bottom rear corner and work around the edges. Once clips are released, lift the panel upward to disengage from the window sill. Disconnect the power window switch connector and any other electrical connectors, then remove the door panel completely.
3. 3

   Remove vapor barrier
   Carefully peel back the plastic vapor barrier to expose the window regulator assembly. If you need to remove it completely, work slowly to avoid tearing. The barrier may be reused if not damaged, or replace with new adhesive tape if torn.
4. 4

   Support and disconnect window glass
   Use masking tape to secure the window glass in the full-up position against the door frame, or have an assistant hold it. Locate the two bolts securing the window glass to the regulator mounting bracket inside the door. Remove these bolts and carefully separate the glass from the regulator. Ensure the glass remains supported.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Disconnect regulator motor connector
   Locate the electrical connector for the window regulator motor. Press the release tab and disconnect the connector. Ensure the wiring is free and will not interfere with regulator removal.
6. 6

   Remove regulator mounting bolts
   Locate all regulator assembly mounting bolts (typically 4-6 bolts securing the regulator track and motor to the door frame). Remove these bolts using a 10mm socket. Note the position and length of each bolt as they may vary.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove regulator assembly
   Carefully maneuver the regulator assembly out through the large access hole in the door frame. You may need to angle and rotate the assembly to clear the door structure. Take care not to damage the door frame or remaining components.
8. 8

   Install new regulator assembly
   Position the new regulator assembly through the door access hole, orienting it to match the original position. Align the mounting bolt holes with the door frame. Start all mounting bolts by hand before tightening to ensure proper alignment.
9. 9

   Secure regulator to door frame
   Torque all regulator mounting bolts to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating. Verify the regulator moves freely and is not binding against the door structure.
   Torque spec

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

    Reconnect window glass
    Reconnect the motor electrical connector. Remove the tape or support holding the window glass. Lower the glass carefully into position and align the glass bracket with the regulator mounting points. Install the glass mounting bolts and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall vapor barrier
    Reposition the vapor barrier over the door frame, ensuring it is properly sealed around all edges. Replace adhesive tape if necessary to ensure a complete moisture seal.
12. 12

    Reinstall door panel
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the door panel switches. Position the door panel onto the door, engaging the top edge into the window sill first, then pressing firmly around all edges to seat the retaining clips. Reinstall all screws, replacing any trim covers removed earlier.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery cable and torque the battery terminal bolt to specification
2. Perform window auto-up/down initialization if equipped: fully lower the window, then hold the switch up for 2-3 seconds after the window reaches full-up position
3. Inspect door panel alignment and ensure all clips are fully engaged

Verification

• Test window operation in both up and down directions through full travel
• Verify window moves smoothly without binding, unusual noise, or slow operation
• Check that auto-up and auto-down functions work correctly (if equipped)
• Verify window seals properly at the top position with no gaps
• Confirm all door panel switches and functions operate normally
• Inspect door panel for proper fit with no rattles or loose areas

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