How to Replace the Window Regulator in a 2000 Pontiac Bonneville

A malfunctioning window regulator in your Pontiac Bonneville can be a danger more that a nuisance, as it can crack or outright break the window glass if you don't replace it promptly. While older models of the Bonneville have the regulator riveted in place, the 2000 model uses bolts, making removal and replacement slightly easier. You still need to remove the door's inner trim panel in order to access the regulator, as is the case with any vehicle.

Instructions

Removal

    1

    Disconnect the car's negative battery cable if the car is equipped with power windows. Make sure the window glass is completely rolled up before doing this or proceeding with a manual window model.

    2

    Disconnect the window crank from the door inner panel if the car has manual windows: Press on the panel to expose the handle's clip and disconnect the clip with a small, hooked tool.

    3

    Pry out all control panels, reflectors and smaller trim panels from the inner trim panel using a flat trim stick. Disconnect the electrical connectors for any devices you pry up like the power window controls.

    4

    Unscrew and remove the door's handle cover using a screwdriver, then pry along the edge of the panel with a flat screwdriver or large trim stick. Remove the panel and then peel off the plastic watershield behind it.

    5

    Tape the window glass to the door's window frame.

    6

    Loosen the bolts connecting the regulator to the glass by making about three to four turns with your wrench, then lower the regulator about 3/4 of the way down to separate it from the glass.

    7

    Disconnect the window motor's electrical connector if needed, then remove the regulator's bolts with your wrench and remove the regulator.

Installation

    8

    Install the new regulator into the window with its bolts. Connect the motor connector if needed, slide the regulator up to the glass and bolt the glass to the regulator.

    9

    Press the watershield back into place, reconnect the trim panel using its clips and reconnect the door handle cover with its screws. Reconnect the electrical connectors and the small trim panels.

    10

    Reinstall the window crank to the car if needed using its clip.

    11

    Remove the tape from the glass.

    12

    Reconnect the battery cable.