Installing power windows typically costs $200 to $400 for every window on average. The final costs depend on the components’ quality and labor costs during installation. While it can be expensive, installing power windows is worth it because of its convenience and safety.
Read on to learn about the cost of installing power windows and the factors influencing the price of parts. I will also discuss whether buying used or aftermarket parts will help save you money and whether installing power windows is worth it.
How Much Does It Cost To Install Power Windows?
Installing power windows can cost anywhere from $200 to $400 per window on average. If you have a four-door car, you can expect to pay $800 to $1,600 for all four windows for the conversion.
The prices above are only a general estimate, so don’t be surprised if you get a higher quote from the auto shop. To better understand the cost of power windows, let’s look at the factors that influence the market price.
Individual Parts
It’s standard for newer cars to offer the convenience of power windows. If you have a manual car window that you want to convert, then you will need to buy several parts.
Expect to pay the following prices for these individual parts:
- Window regulator: $50 to $550
- Window motor: $40 to $300
- Switch: $10 to $100
Cost of Labor
You can expect to pay $50 to $120 per hour for labor, but this estimate can vary greatly depending on the mechanic’s rate. It can also depend on where you live, as rates in some cities will be more expensive.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Power Window Installation?
The factors that affect the cost of power window installations are the location of the mechanic’s shop, the quality of the power window kit, and the age of your car.
Location
Location is a significant influence on the price of installing power windows. It might be more expensive in some states or cities than in others. For example, Connecticut, Colorado, and California are the three states with the highest car repair costs.
Quality
The quality of a power window’s components also determines its selling price. Buying a high-performance kit from a reputable manufacturer might cost more, but if it gives you peace of mind, it might be worth it.
If you decide to buy brand-new components, you can expect the prices to be higher. Those who want to save money can consider second-hand parts instead, but the quality won’t match an unused OEM model.
However, while aftermarket power kits are affordable, their longevity and performance aren’t as good as their factory-installed counterparts’. In most cases, aftermarket kits will require a replacement within two to three years, making them expensive in the long run.
Age of Car
It can be more expensive to install power windows in old cars than in newer models. Many old models have brittle doors, making them fragile for mechanics to work on without risk of damage. Mechanics working on older cars must be more careful when disassembling the door panels to replace the window’s mechanisms.
It’s rare to find new cars with hand-crank windows since most of them come with powered electrical systems.
Are Power Windows Worth It?
Power windows are worth it because they are more convenient and user-friendly than manual crank windows. You can control a car’s power windows at the push of a button instead of manually winding the window up and down. They are beneficial for seniors and those with limited hand mobility.
A good thing about power windows is that you can control all your car’s windows from the driver’s seat. In addition, power windows allow you to install child locks for safety if you have kids riding in your vehicle.
How Much Can I Save Buying Used or Aftermarket Parts?
You can save 50-60% of a brand-new power window cost when you buy used or aftermarket parts instead. However, this will depend on factors such as the supplier’s selling price and quality considerations.
While buying used or aftermarket car parts can be cheaper, you must consider the reseller’s reputation and the warranty that comes with the products you purchase. Pick a used part with comprehensive warranty coverage for peace of mind.
How Much Does a Power Window Motor Cost?
A power window motor can cost anywhere from $40 to $300, depending on the brand and model. In addition, the price also varies based on whether it’s an OEM, aftermarket, or used component.
While it can be expensive, you should not skimp on a good power window motor. A good motor must be robust enough to withstand wear and tear, as it is responsible for lowering and raising the window.
What Is the Best Place To Install Power Windows?
The best place to install power windows is your local mechanic or a reputable auto shop. Getting a professional to do the job will make servicing your power windows more accessible and convenient if any issues arise. Avoid installing power windows at car dealerships, as they typically charge more.
Consider doing the job yourself if you want the lowest possible price for power windows. However, while it’s economical, you might risk damaging your car door if you don’t know how to install the window correctly.
Can You Install Power Windows Yourself?
You can install power windows yourself if you have the necessary skills and tools. Installing power windows by yourself will save on labor costs. However, it’s best to seek a professional if you aren’t knowledgeable about car parts, as you could risk damaging your car.
To install a power window yourself, here’s an overview of what you’ll need to do. Below are simplified steps to give you an idea of how to do it yourself without paying a pro to do the job.
- Start by gathering the materials you need. It’s easier to work when you have everything ready before you begin. Three of the most important materials are the motor, regulator, and switch.
- Disassemble the door panel. You must remove the panel to install the power window’s regulator and motor. Assessing the layout under the panel will also help you visualize how to arrange the parts.
- Install the new regulator. Depending on the regulator’s mount, you may need to drill new holes to rivet the mechanism to the door.
- Connect the motor, regulator, and switch to a power source. Route the wires from the car’s main circuit breaker panel to the motor, regulator, and switch. You will need some knowledge of wiring systems to do this, or you may need to consult a mechanic.
- Install the switch. For crank windows, this can be difficult because there is no prior provision for a switch on the door. However, you can search for a switch with a flat underside that won’t require cutting into the door’s panel.
- Reassemble the door panel and test if the power window is functioning. The new power window should work if you’ve wired the regulator correctly.
Conclusion
You can expect power windows to cost between $200 to $400 per window. The cost of installing a power window depends on many factors, such as:
- The brand and quality of the parts
- The location of the mechanic or supplier
- The age of your car
- Condition of the parts (i.e., OEM, used, aftermarket)
Individual parts can be cheap, especially if you buy used or aftermarket. Additionally, you can enjoy more savings if you do it yourself instead of paying a mechanic.
For more, check out How to Install a Power Outlet in Your Car (2 Ways to Do It).
Jim James is a published author and expert on the outdoors and survivalism. Through avid research and hands-on experience, he has gained expertise on a wide variety of topics. His time spent at college taught him to become really good at figuring out answers to common problems. Often through extensive trial and error, Jim has continued to learn and increase his knowledge of a vast array of topics related to firearms, hunting, fishing, medical topics, cooking, games/gaming, and other subjects too numerous to name.
Jim has been teaching people a wide variety of survivalism topics for over five years and has a lifetime of experience fishing, camping, general survivalism, and anything in nature. In fact, while growing up, he often spent more time on the water than on land! He has degrees in History, Anthropology, and Music from the University of Southern Mississippi. He extensively studied Southern History, nutrition, geopolitics, the Cold War, and nuclear policy strategies and safety as well as numerous other topics related to the content on survivalfreedom.com.