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Would Your Car Pass a Roadworthy Today?
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Would Your Car Pass a Roadworthy Today? Don't Forget Your Power Windows
When people think about preparing for a roadworthy inspection, they usually check the obvious things first — tyres, lights, brakes, seatbelts. But there's one item that's surprisingly easy to overlook.
Your power windows.
A faulty power window can be enough to prevent your vehicle from passing a roadworthy inspection, depending on your state or territory's requirements.
Why Do Power Windows Matter for a Roadworthy?
Power windows aren't just a convenience — they're considered part of your vehicle's safety equipment. If a window doesn't operate correctly, it can affect:
A window stuck partially open or closed can obstruct the driver's line of sight.
Inspectors expect windows to open in an emergency — especially if door handles fail.
All occupant windows are assessed, not just the driver's.
If your vehicle was originally fitted with electric windows, inspectors expect them to work as intended.
Four Warning Signs Your Window Motor Could Be Failing
Power window motors rarely stop working without giving some warning first. Learn more about whether you need a replacement motor.
🐢 The Window Is Getting Slower
If you've noticed the window taking longer to reach the top or bottom than it used to, don't ignore it. A slowing window is often one of the first signs the motor is beginning to wear.
🔊 Clicking or Grinding Noises
Clicking, grinding or repeated buzzing noises inside the door can indicate internal wear within the window motor or regulator assembly.
⬆️ The Window Stops Halfway
A window that pauses halfway, struggles to continue, or needs several presses of the switch usually isn't going to fix itself. This commonly points to a failing motor or increasing resistance.
✋ It Needs a Helping Hand
If you find yourself pulling the glass upward while holding the switch, the motor no longer has enough power to lift the window under normal load.
A Quick Check Before Your Inspection
Before heading in for a roadworthy inspection, take two minutes to check every electric window. Open and close each one completely. You're looking for:
Pre-Inspection Window Checklist
- Smooth, consistent operation with no hesitation
- Consistent speed — not slower than it used to be
- No unusual noises (clicking, grinding, buzzing)
- Full travel to the top and bottom of the door
- All windows tested — not just the driver's
Finding a problem at home is much easier than discovering it during an inspection.
Don't Wait Until It Stops Completely
Many drivers continue using a slow window because "it still works." Unfortunately, window motors often fail gradually before eventually stopping altogether.
A motor that fails with the window down can leave your interior exposed to rain.
A motor that seizes can damage the regulator, turning a simple fix into a bigger job.
Regular lubrication can extend the life of your window mechanism significantly.
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Need a Replacement Window Motor?
We specialise in replacement power window motors for hundreds of Australian vehicle models.
Passenger vehicles, 4WDs, utes and commercial vehicles — with same-day dispatch on orders before 1 PM AEST.