How to Replace a Window Regulator on 2001 Jetta

The window regulators in the Volkswagen Jetta are hard to replace because they are permanently built into the plastic inner door carrier. The regulator can't be separated from the carrier and replaced by itself. If any individual components like the manual window winder or power window motor are the problem, they can be replaced. If you must replace the regulator, you'll need to replace the entire plastic carrier; consult your mechanic first.

Instructions

Disconnect the Jetta's negative battery cable.

Pry the switch bezel out with a small screwdriver if you're working on the driver's side door and it has power windows. If you're working on any door with manual windows, slide the window crank's spacer away from the knob end of the handle to remove it.

Disconnect the pull handle grip on a driver's door or pry off the door pull cover on a passenger door. Remove the screws behind the part you just removed along with the screws at the bottom edge of the door trim panel.

Disengage the door panel from its clips by prying it off along the edges with a trim stick. Lift the door sharply upward and disconnect the inner lock rod from the door handle and all electrical connectors.

Remove the power window motor by removing the fasteners at the front end of the carrier. You don't need to remove the carrier in this case.

Mount the replacement motor in place at the carrier's front end and install the mounting bolts.

Reconnect the door trim panel.

Loosen the window glass track bolts through the holes near the top of the carrier; you need to remove the rubber plugs in the carrier and use a socket wrench with an extension. Release the glass by separating the clamps.

Tape down the glass to keep it in its current position and lower the regulator all the way down. Tilt the glass' rear end upward and out of the door to remove it.

Unscrew the 10 bolts holding the plastic carrier in place on the door and lift it up and toward the door's inner edge. Disconnect the electrical connector for the door lock solenoid at the rear of the carrier.

Disconnect the window winder from the carrier by removing the fasteners that are accessible from the back.

Connect the replacement window winder to the carrier or the current winder to the replacement carrier.

Fasten the carrier back in place on the door, then raise the regulator until the bolts for the glass are accessible through the carrier holes near the top.

Lower the window glass into the door, starting with the front end, tilt it into position until the clamps fit a round it and tighten the bolts.

Connect the door's inner trim panel.