Questions and Answers

Volkswagen Jetta Power Window Q. Hi Vincent! I'm seeking some guidance regarding the repair of my 1999 Volkswagen Jetta power window assembly. As many Jetta owners have experienced, my driver's-side window fell right in the door this morning. I have already taken the door panel off and found a few problems.

The two white plastic tabs (I don't know what they are actually called) that lift the window are broken, the cables that attach the motor to the these tabs are frayed and kinked, and the plastic spool that the cables are supposed to coil on to at the motor is stripped (the cable ends have pulled right through the plastic).

I have been told by the dealer that the entire motor/regulator needs to be replaced because VW does not sell the parts individually. Can this be true? I don't understand why I would have to pay for a new motor if it's not the cause of the problem. The motor sounds fine when I lift and depress the window switch and the plastic gear that turns the other plastic spool is not damaged.

It seems a little absurd to have to pay $470.00 (which is what they quoted me for parts alone) to obtain a couple of plastic tabs, cables, and a plastic spool. Also, when I was trying to remove the internal door panel (the one beneath the panel of the car's interior), I came across two little black pencil eraser looking things that attach to something deeper in the door. It was the only obstacle preventing me from removing the panel completely.

They had no wrench head fittings or grooves on them. They are soft plastic, cylindrical, and are damaged easily if twisted or pulled with tools. Any idea how to remove these? Also, is it foolish for me to try and repair this myself? I'm pretty good with the concepts of physics and I'm sure I could have reassembled all the parts had they not been broken. Any insight, advice, or instructions would really help.

Thanks!
Steve

A. I don't know Steve, according to my information the power window motor and power window regulator are available separately.

Left Front Window Motor	1H0959801A	$293.60
Left Window Regulator	1J4837461D	$150.00

I don't know what those black things you mentioned are. Possibly locators for the motor or regulator.

This is a pretty simple and straightforward job and I don't think you're the least bit foolish for trying to do it yourself.

By the way, the dealer has a tool kit that allows them to repair the window regulator instead of replacing it. But I always felt better with replacing it because it is cheaper.