How Much Does It Cost to Replace Car Power Windows?

For most cars in the U.S., replacing a failed power window (typically the regulator and motor) costs about $200–$600 at an independent shop and $350–$800 at a dealership; luxury models and complex doors can run $600–$1,200. Replacing a window switch usually totals $80–$350, while replacing a side window glass is commonly $200–$600. Prices vary by vehicle, parts choice (OEM vs. aftermarket), and local labor rates.

What “Power Window Replacement” Usually Means

When people say “replace a power window,” they often mean installing a new regulator-and-motor assembly—the mechanism that moves the glass. Other related repairs include replacing the window switch, the glass itself (if it’s cracked or shattered), or fixing wiring and door control modules. Each of these has different parts and labor costs, so your estimate depends on what actually failed.

Typical Price Ranges in 2025

Regulator and Motor Assembly

Expect parts to cost $75–$400 for most vehicles (aftermarket to OEM). Labor usually takes 1.0–2.5 hours, billed at about $90–$160/hour at independent shops and $150–$215/hour at dealerships in many U.S. markets. That puts the typical installed price around $200–$800. High-end brands, frameless doors, or tightly packaged rear doors can push totals to $600–$1,200.

Switch or Master Control

Individual window switches often run $25–$200 for parts. Labor is 0.3–1.0 hour in most cases. Typical all-in cost: $80–$350. Master switch panels on the driver’s door are usually at the higher end of that range.

Side Window Glass (Door Glass)

A new side window glass generally costs $100–$300 for the part, plus 1–2 hours of labor for installation and cleanup of broken glass, for a total of $200–$600. Factory tint banding or acoustic/solar glass can add cost. Unlike windshields, side glass rarely requires ADAS calibration.

Door Module or Wiring Repair

Some failures trace to a door control module or broken wiring in the door jamb. Modules can cost $150–$600, plus programming and 0.5–1.5 hours of labor. Wiring repairs vary widely but typically fall in the $100–$300 labor range if no major harness replacement is needed.

Diagnosis and Programming

Diagnostic fees are commonly $0–$150 (often waived if you proceed with the repair). Certain vehicles require window “initialization” or indexing after repair; that’s typically 0.2–0.5 hours. Ask if this is included.

What Drives the Price Up or Down

Several factors influence your final bill. The following list highlights the most common drivers of cost and why they matter.

• Parts choice: OEM parts usually cost more but can fit and last better; quality aftermarket parts can save 20–40%.
• Vehicle class: Luxury brands and some trucks/vans often have more complex mechanisms and higher labor times.
• Door position: Rear doors and frameless doors can be trickier than front framed doors.
• Labor rate: Independent shops ($90–$160/hr) vs. dealerships ($150–$215/hr) in many metro areas.
• Mobile vs. shop: Mobile glass or regulator service may add a convenience fee or minimum callout charge.
• Warranty coverage: Dealer-installed OEM parts may carry longer warranties; some aftermarket brands offer limited lifetime on regulators.
• Market and location: Coastal and urban areas often have higher rates; rural markets can be lower.
• Extras and incidentals: Door clips, vapor barriers, weatherstrips, glass cleanup, retinting, and rusted fastener removal can add time and parts.

Understanding these variables helps explain why two quotes for the “same” job can differ significantly. Clarify each item to make an apples-to-apples comparison.

Real-World Estimates by Vehicle Segment

These examples reflect common totals in 2024–2025 for a single door, regulator-and-motor replacement, assuming no unusual complications.

• Economy/compact cars: $200–$450 at independents, $300–$600 at dealers.
• Midsize cars/compact SUVs: $300–$650 at independents, $400–$750 at dealers.
• Luxury and premium models: $600–$1,200, sometimes higher for complex doors or scarce parts.
• Heavy-duty trucks/vans: $350–$800 depending on access and parts availability.

Your actual price depends on your VIN-specific parts, labor time, and shop rate. Always request a written estimate with part numbers.

When Replacement Is Cheaper Than Repair—and Vice Versa

On many vehicles, replacing the entire regulator-and-motor assembly is faster and more reliable than attempting to repair broken cables or plastic guides. However, if only the motor is faulty and the regulator is sound, a motor-only swap can save money. Conversely, a failing switch or a broken wire can mimic regulator issues—proper diagnosis avoids unnecessary parts.

How to Save Without Cutting Corners

A few practical steps can reduce cost while maintaining quality and safety. Consider the following approaches before you schedule the repair.

1. Get 2–3 quotes and ask each shop to itemize parts, labor hours, and fees.
2. Discuss OEM vs. reputable aftermarket regulators (e.g., versions with metal pulleys or reinforced cables).
3. Ask for flat-rate labor where applicable and confirm whether initialization is included.
4. Bundle multiple door repairs in one visit to save on diagnostic or callout fees.
5. Check for recalls, extended warranties, or technical service bulletins for your VIN.
6. Approve replacement of broken door clips and weather films to prevent rattles and leaks later.
7. If glass is broken, verify cleanup is included and ask about retinting costs up front.
8. Consider mobile service for convenience, but compare total cost and warranty terms with in-shop quotes.

These steps help you balance price, reliability, and warranty protection—often shaving 10–30% off the first quote you receive.

What to Ask Your Shop

Clear questions can prevent surprises and ensure you get what you’re paying for.

• Which brand and part number will you install? OEM or aftermarket?
• What are the labor hours and hourly rate?
• Is diagnosis, initialization/programming, and glass cleanup included?
• What are the parts and labor warranty terms?
• Will you replace door panel clips and reseal the vapor barrier?
• Are there any additional fees (shop supplies, disposal, mobile service)?
• Can I see the old parts after replacement?

Documented answers protect you if issues arise later and make it easier to compare competing estimates.

The Bottom Line

Most power window repairs—especially regulator-and-motor replacements—land between $200 and $800, depending on your vehicle, parts choice, and labor rate. Switches are usually far cheaper; glass sits in the middle. Get a detailed, itemized estimate and weigh OEM against high-quality aftermarket parts for the best value.

Summary

Expect $200–$600 at independent shops and $350–$800 at dealers for a typical regulator-and-motor replacement, with luxury models $600–$1,200. Switches commonly total $80–$350; side window glass $200–$600. Prices hinge on parts type, labor rate, door complexity, and add-ons like clips and cleanup. Itemized quotes and smart part selection provide the best blend of cost and reliability.

How do I know if it’s my window motor or a switch?

If your window won’t close completely, it doesn’t move as quickly as it used to, the window doesn’t move at all, or there are strange noises or smells when you press a power window switch, the power window motor has likely failed.

Can a mechanic fix an electric window?

Yes, mechanics are able to fix power windows. It is a very common repair and can be done both by mobile mechanics as well as in a workshop.

How expensive is it to replace an electric window in a car?

The cost of an electric window repair can vary depending on your car make and model, how many windows need repairing, and what the exact problem is. The average cost of repairing a electric car window is around £86.00 when booked through FixMyCar. Take a look at the average costs below for a range of popular car makes.

Are car windows expensive to replace?

The average cost ranges from $200 to $500, but it can go up to $1,000 for luxury vehicles or those with ADAS systems. For exotic cars and unique models, the pricing can be much higher yet. Replacing a side window tends to be more affordable, typically ranging from $100 to $350.