2001-2004 300M, Concorde, Intrepid & LHS Window Regulator Failure: Noises, Fixes, and Parts Guide

Symptoms of a Failing Window Regulator

A failing window regulator on your Chrysler 300M, Concorde, LHS, or Dodge Intrepid will usually give you clear warning signs. Because these vehicles all share the same Chrysler LH platform, the symptoms of failure are identical across all four models. The most common issue is the failure of the internal cables or plastic guide components, not the electric motor itself.

• Grinding, Clicking, or Popping Noises: This is often the first sign of trouble. When you operate the window, you may hear grinding or clicking sounds from inside the door. This is typically caused by a frayed cable or a broken plastic pulley inside the regulator assembly.
• Window Drops Into the Door: A loud pop followed by the window glass suddenly falling into the door means the regulator has completely failed. This usually happens because a cable has snapped or the brackets holding the glass have broken.
• Slow or Erratic Movement: If the window moves much slower than it used to, struggles to go up, or moves in a jerky, uneven motion, the regulator is likely binding. This puts extra strain on the motor and is a sign of impending failure.
• Crooked Window: A window that tilts to one side as it goes up or down is a classic symptom. This indicates that one of the lift points on the regulator track has broken, causing the glass to become misaligned.
• Motor Runs, But Window Doesn't Move: If you can hear the motor whirring inside the door when you press the switch, but the window stays put, the motor is working but is no longer connected to the glass. The regulator's drive mechanism is broken. If you hear no sound at all, the problem is more likely the switch, fuse, or the motor itself.

Buying a Used Window Regulator: What to Inspect

For these vehicles, a high-quality used OEM window regulator assembly is often a better value and can be more durable than a cheap, new aftermarket part. The original Mopar parts used thicker plastics and better-quality cables. However, since the common failure point is brittle plastic, a thorough inspection is critical before buying a used part.

Inspection Checklist:

• Check the Plastic Guides: This is the most important step. Look closely at all plastic components, especially the clips that attach to the window glass and the pulleys the cable runs on. Reject any regulator that has visible cracks, stress marks (white lines in the plastic), or feels brittle.
• Inspect the Cables: Check the full length of the steel cables. Look for any signs of fraying, kinks, or rust. A damaged cable will fail soon after installation.
• Verify the Motor (If Possible): If you have access to a 12V power source (like a car battery), you can briefly touch the two pins on the motor's electrical connector to test its function. The motor should spin smoothly in both directions when you reverse the polarity.
• Confirm Compatibility: Ensure the part is from a 2001-2004 300M, Concorde, Intrepid, or a 2001 LHS. Most importantly, verify the door location. A regulator for the rear passenger side will not fit any other door.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of mid-2026, there are no active recalls or specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for window regulator failure on the 2001-2004 Chrysler 300M, Concorde, LHS, or Dodge Intrepid. The failures experienced in these vehicles are generally due to the age and wear of the regulator's moving parts, particularly the plastic components which can become brittle over time.

Cost of Replacement

The cost to replace a window regulator assembly can vary significantly depending on the type of part you choose. For these models, the regulator and motor are almost always replaced as a single unit.

DIY Replacement Guide & Difficulty

Replacing the window regulator on a 2001-2004 Chrysler 300M, Concorde, LHS, or Intrepid is a manageable DIY project for someone with basic mechanical skills. The process is very similar for all four doors.

• Difficulty: 2/5 (Easy to Moderate)
• Estimated Time: 1.5 - 2 hours
• Tools Required: Phillips screwdriver, flat-blade screwdriver or trim removal tool, 10mm socket with ratchet and extension, strong tape (e.g., painter's or duct tape).

Step-by-Step Overview:

1. Remove the Door Panel: Start by removing several Phillips head screws located in the door pull handle, inside the door release handle, and along the bottom edge of the panel. Use a trim tool to carefully pry the panel away from the door to release the plastic clips.
2. Disconnect Switches and Cables: Unplug the electrical connectors for the window and lock switches. Disconnect the cable for the interior door handle.
3. Access the Regulator: Carefully peel back the plastic water shield to expose the inside of the door cavity.
4. Secure the Window: Use strong tape to hold the window glass in the fully 'up' position. Run the tape from one side of the glass, over the top of the door frame, to the other side. This prevents it from falling when you unbolt it.
5. Unbolt the Glass: Lower the regulator (if possible) until you can see the two 10mm bolts that clamp the regulator to the glass through the access holes. Loosen these bolts so the glass is free from the regulator.
6. Remove the Regulator Assembly: Disconnect the motor's electrical plug. Remove the 10mm bolts holding the regulator assembly to the door shell. Carefully collapse the assembly and remove it through the large access hole in the door.
7. Installation: Installation is the reverse of removal. Transfer the mounting bolts to the new regulator, guide it into the door, and loosely attach it. Connect the motor and window switch temporarily to move the new regulator into position to attach the glass. Tighten all bolts and reinstall the door panel.

Technical Specifications & Part Numbers

These part numbers are for the Rear Passenger (Right) Side Window Regulator and Motor Assembly. Part numbers often supersede over time; the latest number in the sequence is the most current replacement.

• OEM Part Numbers (Chrysler/Mopar): 4574100AK, 4574100AL, 4574100AN, 4574100AQ
• Common Aftermarket Part Number (Dorman): 741-559
• Vehicle Platforms: Chrysler LH Platform (2nd Generation)
• Fitment Years: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)