Optionman1

issue with the driver side window on 2003 c4s not lowering slightly when either inside or outside handle is moved. i can easily work around the problem by using the power window button prior to exiting the car and then using the key in lock to raise it once outside. i've read posts describing the various sensors (i think 7) that control various aspects of the window/locks and was hoping it wouldn't be too expensive to correct.

quote from the Porsche dealer who has my car to replace the IMS bearing is $1200 for "window regulator replacement". i'm gonna pass on fixing it now but wanted to ask if this quote sounds reasonable.

thanks in advance for replies

sweet victory

I bought an OEM regulator for under $300 and replaced myself. Easy job that can be accomplished with basic hand tools.

If the window isn't dropping for the outside and inside handle, it's most likely the regulator. The exterior handle has its own micro switch, so it seems more likely the regulator is bad versus multiple micro switches going bad. This was true for my vehicle.

Optionman1

Thanks for the quick response, i'll look into doing it myself down the road. Much appreciated

Silver6

I had mine replaced at an Indy for $600

Splitting Atoms

One little nugget I discovered is that there are two set screws with plastic stoppers on the regulator mechanism that limit travel in the downward direction. I'm not sure if this particular regulator mechanism is OE in my 996 as it was installed by the previous owner. The upper stop is for the Boxster and the lower stop is for the 911. If you leave the upper stop in, the window will not go down completely and will be sticking up a couple of inches.

Porschetech3

If you are a real cheep a$$ like me, and are mechanically inclined, you can repair the regulator for near nothing. EPS makes a repair sleeve,or you can use a cable adjuster for a bicycle , to replace the broken plastic cable spacer to remove the slack in the cable regulator. There are threads and videos on this DIY regulator repair...

dporto

I paid $125 for a new regulator (btw - that's dealer cost for genuine Porsche...) and installed it myself. Easy job but slightly labor intensive (as are most jobs on these little gems).

Optionman1

thx, i'll take a look at the videos

DBJoe996

Opinion 1 - do not repair the regulator or you will be back in there in less than a year.
Opinion 2 - do not buy a cheap knockoff regulator or you will be back in there in less than a year.
Opinion 3 - from experience, buy an original Porsche window regulator and install. Mine lasted almost 20 years, so with a new one in place I expect another 20 years.

Porschetech3

I agree not to buy the cheap knock-off China regulator, but I repaired my OEM plastic sleeved regulator with metal bicycle adjuster sleeves over 10+ years ago. And when one of my other 996's or 986 fail, I'll spend 30min to save that $$ all day long..

bbboomer67

My passenger window was not dropping when opening the door. Neither door latch would operate the window drop and the dashboard key switch light was always on. I bought a replacement regulator, but through research I found that the door lock mechanism was the culprit. I bought a used one on eBay for pennies, and all was fine again. Your issue may not be the regulator...just a heads up!

Ahsai

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AzDropTop

My rear passenger regulator just crunched itself to death. They are 800 to 900 new. Crazy! It is the first part I have needed for the 996 where is was like "WTF" It is what it is. I guess a place on eBay rebuilds them for about half. I am going to suck it up on the first one and just do it right.

rolex11

I fashioned my own spacer for my passanger side window that was not dropping the half inch or so when the handle is first lifted. The cable stretches and has slack so as the motor turns to yank it down that half inch it only picks up the slack.

jdoc1949

My drivers side would not move when door handle activated, thought it was micro switch, pulled door apart and it was the window regulator, check passenger side and cables were stretched as well. Purchased OEM after reading all the bad reviews on aftermarket, did both in around 5 hrs on Saturday afternoon with a few beers, work like new and ready for next 16yrs