Electric Window Lifters

The operation of the window lifters in the Audi 80 is determined not only by the switches, but also by the window lifter control unit located in the auxiliary relay block.

PROCEDURE

With the engine running, the driver's window moves up or down to the stop after a short press of the switch. However, the window can be stopped by a short press of the switch in the upward direction. This comfort switching function is only available on vehicles built before October 1992.

With the engine off, or on later model vehicles, the driver's window moves only while the window switch is pressed. It does not matter whether the window goes up or down, or whether the door is open or closed.

The other windows in the vehicle move only when the switch is pressed. The rear door windows can be locked from the central switch in the driver's door armrest.

If the driver's door is opened and closed again with the engine off, the window lifter system is deactivated (anti-theft protection).

Faults
Window lifter motors are removed in the same way as mechanical lifters; see the description in the Body chapter. Motor repair is not provided.

PROCEDURE

If no window moves, check the fuse at the bottom of the auxiliary relay block (see Body Electrical System chapter). Since it is a self-resetting fuse, power should be restored after a short time.

If only one window lifter does not work, remove the corresponding switch and check it according to the diagram described in this chapter.

If the switch is good, remove the trim panel of the corresponding door.

Disconnect the wire terminals of the window lifter motor and use a test lamp to check whether voltage is supplied when the window lifter is switched on.

If no fault has been found so far, the window lifter motor is faulty.

If the motor is not receiving power, check the wiring and the control unit.

Poor operation of one of the windows may be caused by jamming in the guide.

Emergency Repair on the Road
Even if the window lifters on your vehicle have failed, this is still no reason to drive in wind and storm with the windows open.

PROCEDURE

If a switch is faulty, try closing the window using another switch.

If this is not possible (for example, if the driver's door is affected), disconnect the connector of another window or move the wires to another, working switch.

Using this working switch, you can close the window.

If the wire to the motor is broken, disconnect the connector, run a temporary wire from the positive battery terminal and a second wire from ground to the motor, and raise the window.

If the window regulator motor is faulty, you can remove the window glass from the regulator with the door trim panel removed. To do this, pry out the retaining clip on the back side of the window regulator that secures the glass to the regulator (use a mirror for this). Now slide the glass up and secure it in this position with adhesive tape or a wooden wedge.