How To Install Replace Rear Power Window Regulator 1999-05 VW Volkswagen Jetta
Difficulty: Advanced · About 100 min · Volkswagen Jetta
Replace the rear door window regulator carrier panel on a 1999–2005 Volkswagen Jetta, transferring the speaker and clips while preserving the wiring, lock rods, cables, and window glass alignment.
Tools you will need
- Flat Blade Screwdriver
- Rivet Gun & Rivets
- T20 Driver
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- T30 Driver
- Drill
- Needle nose pliers
- 5/16 Inch Drill Bit
Parts and supplies
- Rear window regulator carrier panel
- Blind rivets
- Door panel clips
Steps
Remove the door trim panel
Pry off the door pull cover and remove its screws and the lower Torx fasteners. Release the door panel clips and lift the panel from the sill. Disconnect the wiring and unhook the handle cable without pulling on the harness.
Disconnect the regulator carrier
Unplug the window motor and speaker, release the lock and handle rods, and remove the motor fasteners. Access the window clamp through its service opening, lower the glass enough to release the clamp, then raise and support the glass securely.
Remove the carrier panel
Remove the carrier fasteners and release its retaining tabs. Pull the wiring through the hinge boot and carrier openings carefully, noting each routing point, then draw the panel partially out to free the handle and lock rods.
Transfer components to the new panel
Drill out the speaker rivets while keeping the bit clear of the speaker body and wiring. Transfer the speaker, clips, seals, and harness retainers to the replacement carrier, then secure the speaker with correctly sized rivets.
Install the replacement carrier
Feed the wiring and rods through the matching openings and route the harness through the door hinge boot. Reconnect the door-side plugs, seat the boot, clip the wiring into its retainers, and position the carrier before tightening its fasteners.
Reconnect the glass and motor
Lower the glass into the carrier clamp and secure it with the original retaining pieces. Reinstall the motor and connect the motor, speaker, lock rod, and handle cable. Check that the glass is held securely before operating the switch.
Reinstall the door panel
Reconnect the door panel wiring and handle cable, then hang the panel on the sill and press its clips into place. Reinstall the lower fasteners and door pull screws and cover. Test the window, lock, speaker, and handle before closing the door.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.