If your Mercedes Sprinter Van window rolls up only halfway, rolls up or down extremely slowly, or won’t move at all, then the window regulator is most likely the issue. The window regulator is an assembly that is mounted in the door panel to control the movement of the glass either up or down. It uses an electric motor to operate gears or cables that enable it to open and close the window effectively.
Modern Mercedes Sprinter Vans have cable-type regulators that are lighter and more efficient than scissor-type regulators that were used in older models, and these cables can easily get damaged over time. When the window regulator is faulty, it exposes you to rain, theft, and other discomforts.
Why Does a Mercedes Sprinter Van Window Regulator Fail?
- Worn Parts: Your van’s window regulators have cables, pulleys, and plastic guides which are bound to wear out with time. These parts may wear out after a few years of use and as a result, the window may operate abnormally or may not operate at all.
- Broken Window Motor: If the window regulator is not functioning properly, then it is likely that the window motor is damaged. The motor and regulator are responsible for opening and closing the window, and when the motor burns out or its power reduces, the whole system may be affected.
- Electrical Problems: The window controls in most newer Mercedes Sprinter Vans are operated electronically. Sometimes the window regulator can be rendered nonfunctional due to a faulty fuse, damaged wires, or a faulty switch.
- Damaged Tracks or Guides: The window moves up and down on a track, and that track can become bent or get jammed with dirt and grime. When this happens, the regulator has to work harder, which results in early failure of the device.
- Broken Regulator Cable: Some of the window regulators operate by pulling a cable that is connected to the window. If this cable is damaged or worn out, the window may become immovable or produce a squealing sound when moved.
What to Do When Your Window Regulator Fails
- Check the Window Switch and Fuse: Before concluding that the regulator is faulty, try using a different window switch (for instance, the master switch on the driver’s door) to determine if the issue is with the switch. If none of the switches work, check the fuse box—a fuse that has blown may be denying power from getting to the regulator.
- Check the Motor: Turn on the window regulator switch and look for any sound of whirring or clicking noise. If you hear the motor running but the window does not move, then the regulator of the window is most likely damaged. If there is no sound at all, then the motor itself may be what is wrong.
- Manual Operation of the Window: If the window is jammed at the down position, you should pull it up while pressing the switch. If it moves with some help, the regulator may be weak or have some other issues.
- Do Not Force the Window Up or Down: When a window is jammed, any attempts to operate it could lead to worsening of the damage to the regulator, the motor, or the glass. If the window will not slide with ease, it is recommended to leave it as it is until it can be fixed.
- Fix or Replace the Regulator: A regulator cannot repair itself, so it’s always best to attend to it as soon as possible. To replace the window regulator, the door trim needs to be disassembled, the old mechanism disconnected, and a new one installed. Although it is possible for some handy individuals to carry out the repair themselves, most Mercedes Sprinter Van owners will prefer to get a technician to do it to avoid damaging any delicate electrical parts.
Visit Us When You Need Your Mercedes Sprinter Window Repaired
Sprinter Gurus specializes in the repair and maintenance of the Mercedes Sprinter Vans, including servicing window regulators. Whether your window is jammed, difficult to open, or producing strange sounds, our professionals will identify the problem and make the necessary repair. Our shop is based in Norcross, GA, and we provide services to Sprinter Van owners in Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas. We ensure that your window operates as it should by using high quality parts and expertise. If you need your Mercedes Sprinter Van to be repaired, then you should schedule an appointment with us for it to be fixed.