Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1996 Ford Explorer 2D Utility, AWDFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Window Sticking/Binding
- If window motor runs slowly, remove front door trim at suspect window. Actuate window in down position. Check window glass runs. If there is an obstruction in glass run, remove obstruction, clean and lubricate glass and retest system. If no obstruction is present, go to next step.
- To check window regulator operation, actuate window to up position and observe window regulator operation. If window regulator skips or binds, go to next step. If window regulator does not skip or bind, adjust regulator and guides and retest system.
- To check regulator and motor, remove motor. See POWER WINDOW MOTOR under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Carefully inspect motor and regulator gears. If there is damage to regulator gears, replace regulator and retest system. If there is no gear damage, replace window motor and retest system. See POWER WINDOW MOTOR under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.