Window regulator failures

[E Kap]

I have a 1999 996 with about 84,000 miles. Just had my drivers side rear window regulator fixed today by an independent company. Cost of the unit $600+. Total cost with labor $1016.00 Ouch!

Just wondering, how common is a failed regulator? Is it likely my other windows will go soon, or do most regulators last for decades?

Eric

[ericinboca]

It is a common failure for 9x6 cars. I am replacing my second one in my '03 996 today. Regulator is about $200; a rebuilt motor is about $200, but it is usually just the regulator that goes. It looks like an intimidating job, but once you understand it, it is pretty easy.

[x5rap]

In May-2011, I had the passenger-side window regulator replaced in my 1999 996 coupe at an independent mechanic for a total of $700. Then came the whistle. It took several trips back to my mechanic. We tried adjusting the door latch to snug-up the door's ft and then after using a high pressure air nozzle, he pin-pointed where the whistle emanated from. With the regulator's attachments points loosened and with the smallest nudge forward, the window finally sealed properly and the whistle stopped.

The whistle happened only in the evenings and at speeds over 60...yes, only in the evening, not in the mornings. I have no idea on why that was, but the adjustments upon installation are critical. Even still, the window now rolls down only 95% of the way, not fully down like it does on the driver's side. It's important to check that before leaving the mechanic's shop to make sure the regulator is adjusted properly.

[Dennis C]

I've had both of my window regulators replaced. My dealer did the first one and I did the second one. It's a pretty easy DIY.

[belleriver]

I changed mine out at around 80,000km (50,000 miles) driver side only.

[1schoir]

....." Even still, the window now rolls down only 95% of the way, not fully down like it does on the driver's side....."

The window regulator part is the same for the 996 and the 986, but there is one difference in the installation which may be causing your window to not go down all the way.

There are two slots for a "bump stop" at the very bottom of the forward leg of the window regulator. The slot that is supposed to be used depends on whether the regulator is being installed in a 996 or a Boxster. Installing it in the wrong one could be the cause of your window now rolling down only 95%.

Here is a photo showing the two slot locations (click on the photo to enlarge). The red circle is the one where the bump stop should be for Boxsters, the green circle is the one for 996's. The bump stop in this photo has not yet been installed. It's sitting just to the right of the Boxster slot, where it it supposed to be installed with the rivet that is awaiting it in the slot.

Regards, Maurice.

Edited October 20, 2011 by 1schoir