A Home Mechanic's Guide to the 1995-2001 Nissan Maxima Window Motor
Is your Maxima's window stuck, slow, or making noise? Here is what you need to know before buying a replacement motor.
- Failure is common; symptoms include slow movement, noise, or a completely stuck window.
- Always check the fuse and window switch first to rule out simpler problems.
- You can replace just the motor, but if the regulator is old or noisy, replacing the full assembly is a safer bet.
- Aftermarket brands like Dorman and Cardone offer a good balance of quality and price for this vehicle.
Is Your Maxima's Window Motor Failing?
When the window motor in a 1995-2001 (A32) Nissan Maxima starts to fail, the signs are usually hard to miss. These cars are old enough that parts like this are common wear items. You might hear strange noises or the window might just stop working altogether. Knowing the symptoms can help you figure out if the motor is the problem, or if it's something else like the switch or the regulator itself.
Common Failure Symptoms
- Slow Window Movement: If the window moves up and down much slower than it used to, the motor is likely getting weak and struggling to lift the glass.
- Window Stops Moving: The window might go up or down a few inches and then stop. You might have to press the button a few times to get it to move again.
- Clicking or Grinding Noises: Hearing a clicking from the switch without movement, or a grinding noise from inside the door when you press the button, often points to a problem. A grinding noise can mean the motor is running but the regulator is broken.
- Window Doesn't Move at All: If you press the switch and nothing happens—no noise, no movement—the motor may have completely burned out. However, this could also be a bad switch or a blown fuse, so it's important to check those simple things first.
- Window Falls Down: If the window falls down into the door and won't stay up, it's usually a sign that the window regulator cable has snapped, not necessarily that the motor has failed. In this case, you will likely need to replace the whole regulator and motor assembly.
Check the Switch First
Sometimes, the master window switch on the driver's door can fail and prevent one or more windows from working. Before you buy a new motor, try operating the window from its own switch on that door. If it works with the local switch but not the master switch, the problem is the master switch, not the motor.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Window Motor
For the 1995-2001 Maxima, you don't need to go to the dealer for a new window motor. Aftermarket parts are widely available and offer good value. The motor is often sold separately from the window regulator, but it is sometimes a good idea to replace them together, especially if the regulator is also old. Here’s a look at the common brands.
| Brand Tier | Brands | Typical Price | Our Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Better | Dorman | $80 - $155 | Dorman is a well-known brand that engineers its parts to match the original fit and performance. They are often considered a reliable replacement and a cost-effective alternative to dealer parts. |
| Good | Cardone (New) | $60 - $120 | Cardone offers both new and remanufactured parts. Their new parts are a solid, budget-friendly choice. They claim to redesign gears with stronger materials to prevent common failures. Some users report these motors are strong and fast. |
| Economy | Skyward / Unbranded | $46 - $75 | These are the most budget-friendly options. Quality can be a gamble, but for an older vehicle like the A32 Maxima, they can be a practical choice if cost is your main concern. Be aware that fit and longevity might not be as consistent as with more established brands. |
Pro Tip: Motor or Full Assembly?
The window motor on this Maxima can be unbolted from the regulator with three screws. If you are on a tight budget and your regulator's cables and tracks are in good shape, you can just replace the motor. However, if the regulator cable is frayed or the window was making grinding noises, it's best to buy a complete motor and regulator assembly to avoid doing the job twice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need any special tools for the replacement?
The job requires basic hand tools like a 10mm socket, a ratchet, a Phillips head screwdriver, and a trim panel removal tool to safely take off the door panel without breaking any clips. An impact driver can be helpful for removing the screws that hold the motor to the regulator, but it is not required.
Is the front motor the same as the rear motor?
No, the front and rear window motors are different parts and have different part numbers. Additionally, the left and right side motors are not interchangeable. You must order the motor that is specific to your vehicle's door location (e.g., Front Driver Side).
My window is stuck in the 'up' position. How can I replace the motor?
This makes the job harder because you need to lower the window to access the bolts that attach the glass to the regulator. Some mechanics work around this by unbolting the entire regulator assembly from the door first, then carefully maneuvering it to access the glass bolts. It is often helpful to have tape ready to hold the glass in place once it's unbolted.
Are there any recalls on the 1995-2001 Maxima window motors?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no safety recalls specifically for the window motors or regulators on the 1995-2001 Nissan Maxima. There were recalls for airbags and suspension components on some of these model years.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 80730-40U20 80730-40U21
The window motor for the 1995-2001 Nissan Maxima is a 12V DC electric motor. It attaches to the window regulator assembly with three bolts and connects to the vehicle's wiring via a single electrical connector. The motor drives the regulator through a splined shaft.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Nissan Maxima: