The power windows on a 2004 Dodge RAM SLT are a electromechanical device, and like all similar devices, will sooner or later fail. This is due to the normal wear and tear on the components, along with being exposed to moisture condensation on cold days. There are some diagnostic procedures an auto electrician or an advanced do-it-yourselfer can do to identify the problem, and correct any issues that the power windows have.
Blown Power Window Fuse
This is the first place to start, and the easiest thing to do. Power surges sometimes blow a power window fuse, and this should be checked. If blown, it has to be replaced, since this is the point that electricity stops flowing from the battery to the door switch to the power window motor.
Corroded Plug Connectors
The plug connectors sometimes corrode out, due to moisture condensation. The way to test this is to use a test probe or voltmeter, and energize the window switch. If electricity is present before the connector, but not present after the connector, then the connector is corroded out. The solution is to clean the internal pins and sockets of both the male and the female sides of the connector. Cleaner contact spray, readily available at many electronic shops, will be of great use to do this job.
Bad Motor
The motor that drives the power window up and down is an electric motor, and like all electric motors, sooner or later will fail. The way to test this is by using the test light or voltmeter on the motor leads. When the door switch is activated, there should be power at the motor leads. If there is, but the motor is not turning, then the motor is bad, and should be replaced
Bad Door Switch
This is another component that sometimes fail. The way to test this is that there should be power going into the switch, but none coming out. When the switch is activated, there should be power coming out. If none comes out, then the switch is bad and should be replaced.
Chafed or Broken Wire
This is the hardest problem of all to trace down. With your voltmeter or test light, trace down the electricity, starting at the fuse box, until it stops flowing. Where it stops, that's were the internal break is. Also, check for chafing. A wire rubbing against a sharp edge will eventually wear through, and that bad section should be replaced.
Dry Slides
The power window slides and gear drive mechanism could be devoid of grease, leading to binding and slow movement. The way to correct this is to use some spray on grease or heavy lubricant, to lubricate all the slides, drives, and contact surfaces.
