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Audi: How to Replace Power Window Motor

As it turns out, you don't have to deal with a damaged window motor any more. Use this article to easily replace a broken window motor in your Audi.

By Neftali Medina - March 29, 2016

This article applies to the Audi A3, A4 B7/B8, A6 C5/C6, Q5, and Q7.

In terms of annoying problems that don't involve being stranded, a damaged window motor takes the cake. No one enjoys opening the door at a drive through or toll both, especially in the rain. The window motor is responsible for sending the power required to the regulator to either raise or lower a window. Over time, the motor's teeth or internals can wear down. When it does wear down, the window will struggle to raise and you will often hear a whirling noise coming from the actual motor. Don't wait for the motor to completely fail; use the following procedure to replace the motor yourself.

Audi How to Replace Window Motor infographic

Materials Needed

  • Phillips screwdriver
  • T20 Torx driver
  • Trim removal tool
  • Replacement power window motor

Step 1 – Remove the door panel

Removing the door panel is completely reliant on the type of model Audi you have. However, you will generally have one to three bolts at the bottom, one bolt behind the handle, and several at the top – usually located behind a trim piece. Use your screwdriver to remove all of the bolts, then use the trim removal tool and slide it around the panel. This will help pop off the clips holding the panel in place. Lift the panel up, then disconnect the window switch, speaker, and power mirror harness.

Figure 1. Locate and remove all of the door panel mounting bolts.

Step 2 – Remove the window motor

The window motor will be mounted towards the top center of the door assembly. There are three T25 Torx bolts holding the motor in place. Loosen the bolts and remove them. Then, remove the window motor from the door.

Figure 2. Remove the red circled window motor mounting bolts.

Step 3 – Install the new window motor

Mount the new window motor onto the door panel.

  • Tighten the T25 Torx bolts.

If you want to quickly test the window motor, connect the switch panel to it, turn the car on accessory mode and press up and down on the power window button. If it works, then proceed to reassemble the door panel.

  • Connect the power mirror and speaker.
  • Position the door panel and mount it in place.
  • Tight all of the door panel mounting bolts.
Figure 3. Mount the door panel with its trim pieces.

Step 4 – Complete the window relearn procedure (optional)

If your window lost its auto-down function, then you'll also have to complete the following procedure.

  • Completely lower your window.
  • Completely raise your window and hold the button up for approximately five seconds.
Figure 4. Complete the window relearn procedure.

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