Power Windows Slow - Check Run Channel Friction

SOURCE:
Honda Service News October 2004

TITLE:
Slow Power Windows? Check Run Channel Friction

APPLIES TO:
2001-05 Civic

SERVICE TIP:
Got a 2001-05 Civic in your shop with one or more power windows moving a tad on the slow side? The likely culprit is run channel friction. Power window motors and regulators rarely cause this problem; they simply raise and lower the glass like a jack. To check if the run channel is the problem, do this:

1. Refer to the Body section of the 200105 Civic S/M, and remove the two bolts that hold the glass to the regulator. (On ISIS, enter the keyword DOOR GLASS, and select ...Door Glass and Regulator Replacement..., from the list.)

2. Check the run channel friction by raising and lowering the glass by hand.

- If the glass does not raise and lower smoothly, go to step 3.

- If the glass raises and lowers smoothly, compare the run channel friction to the run channel friction in a known-good vehicle. If the run channel friction is the same, then look for other possible causes.

3. Use hot, soapy water to clean the run channels, then retest.

- If the glass now moves smoothly, reinstall the glass to the regulator.

- If the glass doesn't move smoothly, go to step 4.

4. Use silicone or graphite to lubricate the run channels, then retest. Make sure you don't use oil-based lubricants; they attract dirt and grime.

- If the glass now moves smoothly, reinstall the glass to the regulator.

- If the glass still doesn't move smoothly, then replace the run channels, not the motor and regulator.

5. Repeat steps 1 thru 4 for any other power windows that move slowly.