Moderate⏱ 45 min - 2 h7 steps·Original on iFixit ↗

2003 Acura TL Window Regulator Replacement

This guide demonstrates how to replace a broken window regulator in a 1999-2003 Acura TL. If your window regulator can no longer roll up, it may be a sign that it's time for a replacement. While it may be hard to find information about a car over twenty years old, this guide can help fill in those gaps.

Steps in this version may be different from disassembling the driver's side door, as the driver's side door involves additional steps. Alternatively, I have provided notes during the steps to help distinguish the differences and try to assist regardless.

Caution: This repair may be difficult without another set of hands. If possible, get someone to help you to avoid any accidents or injury.

Tools (6)

Phillips #00 Screwdriver buy ↗
Painter's Tape(opt.) buy ↗
Wooden Stick buy ↗
Scissors(opt.) buy ↗
Socket Wrench buy ↗
Car Interior Trim Removal Tool Kit buy ↗

Parts (1)

window regulator buy ↗

Step-by-step instructions

Use a Phillips #00 screwdriver to remove the screw covers and screws behind the door handle and on the center doorframe.
Set them aside for reassembly.
If you're working on reassembling specifically the front driver's side door, you may have to remove the handle by shifting it right, then detaching it by unplugging the memory board located on the back. Other passenger doors won't have this additional step.

Using a trim removal tool, begin separating the door cover from the door. While separating, carefully undo the clips attaching the door to its frame.
The clips are very fragile. Ensure the clips don't get damaged during separation.

Carefully unplug the speaker and window control cable connectors from the door. Press down on each connector to release it from its socket.
The driver's side door, which has a memory board, may have additional wires to disconnect.

Carefully pull off the weather seal so you have access to the internal part of the door.
Try to avoid tearing it as you will need to use it once you are done with the repair.

If your window motor is already broken, you may have trouble keeping your window pane from falling if you are working by yourself.
Place a solid wood stick or other material in the door cavity below the window to prop the pane up.
The stick is to ensure the pane is properly secured when removing the window pane, but it may not be necessary if you're working on this project with someone else. Additionally, if you don't have a stick or an extra set of hands, try using durable tape to secure the glass to the top of the frame.

Use a socket wrench to unscrew the bolts attaching the window regulator to the doorframe.
You may need to tear the weather seal back more to have better access to the bolts.

Push the bolts out from inside the doorframe.
Remove the window regulator.
Replace the old window regulator with the new one, rescrewing bolts and reassembling the doorframe.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

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