Dodge Ram 2002-2008: How to Replace Your Power Window Actuator
The major cause of a power window failure in your Ram is a faulty power window actuator. This article will go over exactly what you need to replace your power window actuator and avoid any potential problems in the future.
This article applies to the Dodge Ram (2002-2008).
The power window actuator is responsible for regulating the action of the window motor and, ultimately, the window itself. If this simple part ends up failing, your power window system will not work. Consider troubleshooting other common sources of power window issues including power window switch failure or a blown fuse. Once you narrow it down to a faulty power window actuator, then you can refer to the steps below to get your windows rolling again! It's also never a bad idea to replace these power window actuators if you feel your windows stuttering or slow window movement. You don't want to be the guy that ends up embarrassed because it seems like you can't operate your power windows!
Materials Needed
- T40 Torx driver
- Phillips and flat head screwdrivers
- 10mm socket with ratchet and extension
Step 1 – Remove door handle and screws around door panel
Lift the door handle and you will find a T40 Torx screw. Remove this screw to remove the door handle as shown in Figure 1. Remove the four Phillips head screws around the door panel as shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4.
Figure 1. T40 Torx screw location. 
Figure 2. Screw one location.
Figure 3. The location of screw two. 
Figure 4. Location of screw three (screw four is on the bottom as well).
Pro Tip
Keep your hardware in labeled bags to avoid lost hardware and unnecessary headaches.
Step 2 – Pop out window switch panel
Use a thin flat head screwdriver to carefully pop out the window switch panel. There are a series of clips that are easy to break around the perimeter of the panel that need to be freed. The end product should look like Figure 5. Then, proceed to remove the two connectors on the bottom of the switch panel and set it aside.
Pro Tip
Slowly work your way around the switch panel to avoid breaking clips and the panel itself.
Step 3 – Get access to window actuator
Pop the door panel off slowly by pulling up and towards you. The panel clips should pop off easily, but if they don't then recheck the above steps. Next, peel away the plastic door film while being mindful of not tearing it. This should give you access to the window actuator.
Pro Tip
Accidentally broke a clip? Don't worry, your local auto parts store will usually have a good selection of panel clips for your Dodge Ram.
Step 4a – Remove window actuator assembly from door
There are two 10mm bolts that need to be removed in order to remove the window actuator assembly from the door as shown in Figures 7 and 8. Make sure to tape the window to the top of the door frame so that it does not fall into the door when the actuator is removed. This is shown in Figure 9.
Figure 7. First bolt that needs to be removed from actuator. 
Figure 8. Second bolt that needs to be removed from the actuator. 
Figure 9. Tape the top of the window to the door frame.
Step 4b – Remove window actuator assembly from door
Slide the window actuator assembly towards the right with your right hand and make sure to keep it held with your left hand since this will free the assembly from the door frame. Pull the window actuator out of the door frame as shown in Figure 10. Refer to the Related Video below for a live representation of this step. You are almost done!
Pro Tip
Take pictures of the assembly in its installed state to have an idea of where to align the window when the new actuator is installed.
Step 5 – Install new window actuator
Re-install the window actuator in the same way as removing it and make sure the notch on the left hand side locks into place. Re-install 10mm bolts and check for window alignment by connecting the window switch. Button everything up in the reverse order once you know it all works perfectly.
- Carefully replace the plastic shroud.
- Push the panel back into place.
- Re-insert the window switch panel.
- Replace the door handle and screws that go around the panel.
Congrats on installing a window actuator on your own!
Pro Tip
Test your window before re-installing the door panel and trim pieces.
Featured Video: How to Repair/Replace Front Power Window Regulator Dodge Ram 02-08
Related Discussion
- Dodge Ram Power Windows - Dodgeforum.com
