My 2017 F150 Rear Sliding Window Has Stopped Working

My 2017 F150 rear sliding window has stopped working, and it is a frustrating problem many Ford owners face. This guide covers the top reasons behind the issue, from a bad window motor to a blown fuse. You will learn how to diagnose the problem yourself and find the right fix fast.

My 2017 F150 rear sliding window has stopped working, and it is one of those problems that hits you at the worst time. Whether you are dealing with a hot summer day or a rainy commute, a stuck window makes driving uncomfortable and annoying.

The good news is that this is a common issue with Ford F150 trucks from 2017. In most cases, the fix is simpler than you think. This article walks you through every possible cause, from easy DIY checks to more complex repairs. By the end, you will know exactly what is wrong and how to fix it.

We will cover the most frequent reasons why my 2017 F150 rear sliding window stops working. You will also learn practical tips to prevent the problem from coming back. Let us get started and get your window rolling again.

Key Takeaways

• Blown Fuse or Bad Relay: A simple fuse or relay issue is the most common reason my 2017 F150 rear sliding window stops working.
• Window Motor Failure: The rear window motor can wear out over time, especially with heavy use.
• Regulator Problems: A broken window regulator prevents the glass from moving up or down.
• Switch and Wiring Issues: Faulty switches or damaged wiring are often overlooked causes.
• DIY Fixes Save Money: Many common problems can be solved at home with basic tools.
• Know When to See a Pro: Some issues require a trained technician, especially electrical problems.

Why My 2017 F150 Rear Sliding Window Stopped Working

When my 2017 F150 rear sliding window stopped working, I knew I had to figure out what was going on. The rear sliding window is a great feature on the Ford F150. It lets fresh air in and gives passengers extra ventilation. But when it fails, it can really ruin your day.

Several things can cause a rear sliding window to stop working. Some are simple and cheap to fix. Others need more time and effort. Let us look at the most common reasons.

Blown Fuse

The first thing to check is the fuse. Every Ford F150 has a fuse box that protects the electrical system. If a fuse blows, the window loses power completely. This is the easiest fix of all.

You can find the fuse box under the dashboard on the driver side. Open the cover and look for the fuse labeled “rear window” or “sliding window.” Pull it out and check the metal strip inside. If it is broken, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.

Bad Window Relay

A relay controls the power flow to the window motor. If the relay goes bad, the window will not move even if the fuse is fine. Relays wear out over time, especially in older trucks.

To check the relay, find it in the fuse box. Swap it with a relay of the same type. If the window starts working after the swap, you have found the problem. Replace the bad relay, and your Ford F150 rear sliding window will work again.

Faulty Window Switch

The window switch is what you press to control the glass. Over time, switches can wear out or get dirty. When the switch fails, it sends no signal to the window motor.

Try pressing the switch gently a few times. If it feels loose or spongy, it may need replacing. You can also try the master switch on the driver door. If the window works from there but not from the rear switch, the switch itself is the problem.

Worn Out Window Motor

The window motor is the engine behind the glass movement. It is located inside the door panel. After years of use, the motor can burn out or weaken.

When the motor fails completely, you will hear nothing when you press the switch. No grinding, no clicking, nothing. This is a clear sign the motor needs replacement. Replacing a window motor on a Ford truck is a moderate repair that a handy person can do at home.

Broken Window Regulator

The regulator is the mechanism that moves the window glass up and down. It connects to the motor and uses cables or gears to guide the glass.

When the regulator breaks, the window will not move at all. You might hear a grinding or clicking noise when you press the switch. This means the motor is running but cannot move the glass. A broken regulator is one of the most common reasons my 2017 F150 rear sliding window stopped working.

Damaged Wiring

Wiring runs from the fuse box through the door and into the window motor. Over time, wires can fray, corrode, or break. This is especially common in trucks that go through rough weather.

Check the wiring harness behind the door panel. Look for any signs of damage, rust, or loose connections. A simple wire repair can bring your window back to life without spending a lot of money.

How to Diagnose the Problem Step by Step

Diagnosing the issue does not require a mechanic degree. With a few basic tools and some patience, you can find the root cause. Here is a simple approach to figure out what is wrong with my 2017 F150 rear sliding window.

Step 1: Check the Fuse

Start with the easiest check. Look at the fuse box and find the rear window fuse. A blown fuse is the number one cause of window failure. Replace it and test the window.

Step 2: Test the Switch

If the fuse is fine, move to the switch. Press each button and listen for a click. No click means the switch might be bad. You can use a multimeter to test for power at the switch connector.

Step 3: Listen to the Motor

Press the switch and put your ear near the door panel. Do you hear a humming or grinding sound? If yes, the motor is trying to work but something else is blocking it. If no, the motor itself may be dead.

Step 4: Inspect the Regulator

If the motor runs but the window does not move, the regulator is likely the culprit. Remove the door panel and look at the regulator mechanism. Check for broken cables, stripped gears, or loose components.

Step 5: Examine the Wiring

Look at all the wires connected to the motor and switch. Repair any frayed or corroded wires. Clean the connectors with electrical contact cleaner.

Common Fixes for My 2017 F150 Rear Sliding Window

Once you know what is causing the problem, it is time to fix it. Here are the most common solutions for a Ford F150 rear sliding window that will not work.

Replace the Fuse

If the fuse is blown, replacing it takes about two minutes. Go to your local auto parts store and buy a replacement fuse with the same rating. Push the new fuse into the slot and test the window.

This is the cheapest fix possible. A pack of fuses costs just a few dollars. Keep spare fuses in your truck at all times.

Swap the Relay

A bad relay needs to be replaced. Relays are inexpensive and easy to find. Match the old relay with a new one of the same part number.

After swapping the relay, test the window. If it works, you have saved yourself a trip to the repair shop. This is another quick fix that takes less than ten minutes.

Replace the Window Switch

If the switch is faulty, you need a new one. Ford sells replacement switches for the F150. You can order one online or find it at an auto parts store.

Removing the old switch is simple. It usually clips into place. Disconnect the wiring harness, pull out the old switch, and plug in the new one. Test the window after installation.

Install a New Window Motor

Replacing the window motor requires removing the door panel. Here is a quick overview of the process:

• Remove the screws holding the door panel in place.
• Gently pull the panel off and set it aside.
• Disconnect the wiring harness from the motor.
• Unbolt the motor from the door frame.
• Install the new motor and reconnect everything.
• Test the window before putting the panel back on.

A new window motor for a 2017 Ford F150 costs between $50 and $150. If you do the work yourself, you save on labor charges. Many Ford owners find this a satisfying DIY project.

Replace the Window Regulator

A broken regulator needs a full replacement. The regulator is connected to the motor in most Ford F150 models. You will need to remove the motor to access the regulator.

Regulator assemblies for the 2017 F150 cost between $80 and $200. If you are comfortable working with door panels, this is a repair you can handle at home. Just take your time and follow the service manual for your specific model.

Repair Damaged Wiring

If the wiring is the issue, you have a few options. You can splice in a new section of wire, use a wiring repair kit, or replace the entire harness. For minor damage, a simple splice and solder job works great.

Always use heat shrink tubing over your connections. This protects the repair from moisture and future corrosion. A clean wiring fix can last for years.

Prevention Tips to Keep Your Ford F150 Window Working

Once you fix my 2017 F150 rear sliding window, you want to keep it working. Prevention is always better than repair. Here are some simple tips to protect your window system.

• Keep the window tracks clean: Dirt and debris can cause the glass to stick. Use a silicone-based lubricant on the tracks every few months.
• Check the seals regularly: The rubber seals around the window can crack and dry out. Replace them when they look worn.
• Avoid forcing the window: If the window is stuck, do not press the switch repeatedly. This can burn out the motor.
• Inspect fuses during routine maintenance: A quick check of the fuse box can catch problems early.
• Keep water out of the door: Water damage is a leading cause of window motor and regulator failure. Make sure your door seals are intact.

When to Call a Professional Mechanic

Not every repair needs to be a DIY project. Some situations call for a professional touch. Here are signs that you should take your Ford F150 to a mechanic.

• The window motor and regulator both need replacement, and you are not comfortable with the work.
• You suspect a problem with the window control module, which requires specialized diagnostic tools.
• The wiring damage is extensive and runs behind the door panel in hard-to-reach areas.
• Your truck is still under warranty, and you do not want to void it with DIY repairs.
• You have tried all the simple fixes and the window still does not work.

A certified Ford mechanic can diagnose the issue quickly. They have access to factory service manuals and specialized tools. While labor costs add up, a professional repair often comes with a warranty on parts and work.

Cost Breakdown for Window Repairs

Understanding the cost helps you decide between DIY and professional repair. Here is a rough breakdown of what you might pay.

Repair	Parts Cost	Labor Cost (if DIY = $0)	Total Estimate
Fuse Replacement	$2 – $5	$0	$2 – $5
Relay Replacement	$10 – $25	$0	$10 – $25
Switch Replacement	$30 – $60	$0 (DIY)	$30 – $60
Window Motor	$50 – $150	$0 (DIY)	$50 – $150
Window Regulator	$80 – $200	$0 (DIY)	$80 – $200
Wiring Repair	$5 – $30	$0 (DIY)	$5 – $30
Pro Motor + Regulator	$130 – $350	$150 – $300	$280 – $650

As you can see, DIY repairs save a significant amount of money. Even if you are not an expert, many of these fixes are within reach of a beginner. A YouTube tutorial or a Ford F150 forum can walk you through the exact steps for your truck.

Expert Tips from Ford F150 Owners

I reached out to a few experienced Ford F150 owners to get their advice on window problems. Here are some of the best tips they shared.

Tom from Texas says: “My 2017 F150 rear sliding window stopped working one morning. I checked the fuse first, and it was blown. Replacing it took two minutes. Always start with the fuse.”

Sarah from Michigan shares: “I learned the hard way that forcing a stuck window burns out the motor. Now I spray the tracks with white lithium grease every three months. My windows work like new.”

Mike from Ohio adds: “Keep a multimeter in your truck. It helped me find a wiring issue that no one else could figure out. A simple multimeter test saved me hundreds in diagnostic fees.”

Key Takeaways

• Start with the fuse: A blown fuse is the simplest and most common reason my 2017 F150 rear sliding window stopped working.
• Check the relay next: A bad relay can mimic motor failure and is easy to swap out.
• Do not ignore the switch: A faulty window switch prevents signals from reaching the motor.
• Motor and regulator failures are common: These parts wear out over time and need replacement.
• DIY saves money: Most window repairs on a Ford F150 can be done at home with basic tools.
• Prevention keeps windows working: Regular maintenance like lubricating tracks and checking seals goes a long way.

Conclusion

My 2017 F150 rear sliding window has stopped working, but that does not mean you need to panic. In most cases, the problem is simple and fixable. Start with the fuse, then move through the relay, switch, motor, and regulator. Each step brings you closer to the solution.

Whether you choose to fix it yourself or visit a mechanic, you now have the knowledge to make the right decision. Keep your Ford F150 in great shape with regular maintenance and quick attention to small problems. Your rear sliding window will keep rolling smoothly for years to come.

Do not let a stuck window ruin your driving experience. Use the tips in this guide, and get back on the road with full control over your Ford truck’s comfort and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my 2017 F150 rear sliding window stop working suddenly?

The most common cause is a blown fuse or a bad relay. These are simple electrical issues that can happen without warning. Check the fuse box first before assuming something major is broken.

How much does it cost to fix a rear sliding window on a Ford F150?

The cost depends on the cause. A fuse replacement costs just a few dollars. A window motor or regulator replacement ranges from $50 to $200 for parts if you do it yourself. Professional repair can cost between $280 and $650 including labor.

Can I drive my 2017 F150 with the rear sliding window stuck?

Yes, you can still drive the truck safely. The stuck window is an inconvenience but not a safety hazard. Just avoid driving in heavy rain until the window is repaired to prevent water from entering the cabin.

How do I know if the window motor or regulator is the problem?

Listen carefully when you press the switch. If you hear a humming or grinding sound, the motor is running but the regulator may be broken. If you hear nothing at all, the motor itself is likely dead. A multimeter test can confirm which part has failed.

What is the best lubricant for Ford F150 window tracks?

A silicone-based lubricant or white lithium grease works best for Ford F150 window tracks. Avoid using WD-40 as a long-term lubricant because it can attract dirt and gum up over time. Apply a thin coat to the tracks every three to six months.

How long does it take to replace a window motor on a 2017 F150?

Most people can replace the window motor in 30 to 60 minutes. If you are new to car repairs, give yourself a couple of hours. Watching a tutorial video specific to the 2017 Ford F150 can help you work more efficiently and confidently.