electrical
Power Window Motor - Rear
for 2021 Toyota RAV4 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.6 h
Tools
7
Steps
12
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear power window motor on a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with the 2.5L I4 gas engine.
Warnings
⚠Disconnecting the battery will erase radio presets and may require window initialization after repair
⚠Support the window glass before removing the motor to prevent it from falling or becoming misaligned
ℹ️Work carefully around interior trim to avoid breaking clips or scratching surfaces
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Phillips screwdriverEssential
Trim removal tool setEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Wire terminal removal tool
Electrical contact cleaner
Masking tape
Parts
- Rear power window motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Plastic trim clips (if damaged) × 5 — 90467-09139 or equivalent
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 90 seconds for airbag system to discharge
- Roll the affected rear window to approximately mid-position before disconnecting battery for easier access
- Gather all tools and replacement parts
Procedure
- 1Remove door trim panelUsing trim removal tools, carefully pry out the screw cover caps from the door pull handle and armrest area. Remove the Phillips screws underneath (typically 2-3 screws). Disconnect the power window switch connector by pressing the tab and pulling. Use trim tools to release the perimeter clips securing the door panel, working from bottom to top. Lift the panel upward to disengage it from the window sill and remove from door.
- 2Remove water barrierCarefully peel back the plastic water barrier sheet from the door frame. Start at one corner and work slowly to avoid tearing. The barrier is typically held with adhesive. If reusing, keep adhesive intact as much as possible. Fold barrier out of the way and secure with masking tape if needed.
- 3Support window glassRaise the window glass to the fully up position manually if possible. Secure the glass in the up position using masking tape from the glass to the door frame exterior, or insert wooden blocks between the glass and door frame to prevent the window from dropping when the motor is disconnected.
- 4Disconnect motor electrical connectorLocate the power window motor electrical connector inside the door cavity. Press the locking tab and disconnect the connector from the motor. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
- 5Remove window regulator motor mounting boltsLocate the three motor mounting bolts securing the motor to the window regulator assembly. These are typically 10mm bolts. Remove all mounting bolts while supporting the motor with one hand.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 6Separate motor from regulatorCarefully pull the motor away from the regulator gear assembly. The motor shaft engages with the regulator gear, so you may need to rotate slightly while pulling to disengage. Remove the motor through the door access hole.
- 7Inspect regulator assemblyWith motor removed, inspect the regulator gear teeth for wear, damage, or debris. Check regulator tracks and cables for proper condition. Clean any debris from the regulator mechanism. If regulator shows damage, it should be replaced along with the motor.
- 8Install new window motorPosition the new motor to the regulator assembly, aligning the motor shaft with the regulator gear. Ensure proper engagement before inserting mounting bolts. Install the three motor mounting bolts finger-tight, then torque to specification in a crossing pattern.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 9Reconnect electrical connectorConnect the electrical connector to the new motor, ensuring it clicks securely into place. Verify the connector is fully seated.
- 10Test window operationReconnect the negative battery terminal temporarily. Remove window support tape or blocks. Test window operation using the master switch to verify motor function in both up and down directions. Check for smooth operation and unusual noises. If operation is correct, disconnect battery again for reassembly.
- 11Reinstall water barrierReposition the water barrier sheet against the door frame, pressing firmly around all edges to ensure proper seal. If adhesive is compromised, apply new butyl tape or automotive weatherstrip adhesive to maintain water seal.
- 12Reinstall door trim panelReconnect the power window switch connector. Position the door panel and engage the top edge onto the window sill. Press firmly around the perimeter to engage all trim clips. Reinstall the Phillips screws in the door pull and armrest areas. Install screw cover caps.
Reassembly
- Reconnect negative battery terminal and torque to specification
- Initialize power windows using the auto up/down procedure: fully lower window, then hold switch up for 2 seconds after window closes completely
- Verify all door panel clips are fully seated and panel is secure
- Test all switches and verify window operates smoothly in both directions
Verification
- Operate window through full travel in both directions multiple times to verify smooth operation
- Check for unusual noises during operation
- Test auto-up and auto-down functions if equipped
- Verify window seals properly at top position
- Confirm no air leaks or rattles from door panel
- Check that all door panel fasteners and trim pieces are secure