Windows Sometimes Doesn't Work
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Windows Sometimes Doesn't Work Hello! New to the LS1Tech forum. I recently purchased a 1999 Firebird Base and I have been having problems with the windows. Sometimes they will work just fine (albeit fairly slowly I believe) and sometimes they just won't work at all. They don't shutoff mid-way to be clear, it's mainly just a luck-of-the-draw situation when I start up the car on some days. They are power windows, I am unsure if it is wiring related, fuse related or power window motor related but I'd like to know what the culprit could be?
If it helps, sometimes the factory stereo power button doesn't work either, preventing me from turning on the radio. The only thing I have found to be somewhat consistent is if it's a really hot day neither the windows or radio power button will work.
If it helps, sometimes the factory stereo power button doesn't work either, preventing me from turning on the radio. The only thing I have found to be somewhat consistent is if it's a really hot day neither the windows or radio power button will work.
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From: Schiller Park, ILL Member: #317
Sounds like a typical BCM (Body Control Module) problem. There are solder joints on the circuit board that have hairline cracks and will need to be re-soldered, or the module replaced (I think new ones have been discontinued at this point?)
Here's a detailed link regarding the problem:
https://ls1tech.com/forums/general-m...blems-fix.html
Here's a detailed link regarding the problem:
https://ls1tech.com/forums/general-m...blems-fix.html
Welcome to the Firebird! These are both common problems. If you tour the FAQ in the Firebird section and General Maintenance section, you will find more to learn about.
The window issue sounds to me like it could also be bad motors. The window motors have a "thermal resistor" in them that cuts off the motor when it reaches the end of its travel. This part in the motor is notorious for going bad and will cause the motor to shut off prematurely. This problem gets progressively worse until the motor dies completely. If this is the issue, the fix is to change the motors. When you do, be sure to follow the shbox method/mod. There are many great reasons why. (Discussed at length in other threads.)
^ If the problems happen often when you are trying to operate/close the window vs. when you are turning on the car, I think that would indicate more of a window motor problem vs. a module problem.
The volume button on the stereo collects dirt and can't sense movement. Just pull the **** off the shaft and spray some MAF cleaner down the shaft and spin the volume control. That should clean things out. Electrical contact cleaner also works, but MAF cleaner is similar and should be safer for the plastic.
The window issue sounds to me like it could also be bad motors. The window motors have a "thermal resistor" in them that cuts off the motor when it reaches the end of its travel. This part in the motor is notorious for going bad and will cause the motor to shut off prematurely. This problem gets progressively worse until the motor dies completely. If this is the issue, the fix is to change the motors. When you do, be sure to follow the shbox method/mod. There are many great reasons why. (Discussed at length in other threads.)
^ If the problems happen often when you are trying to operate/close the window vs. when you are turning on the car, I think that would indicate more of a window motor problem vs. a module problem.
The volume button on the stereo collects dirt and can't sense movement. Just pull the **** off the shaft and spray some MAF cleaner down the shaft and spin the volume control. That should clean things out. Electrical contact cleaner also works, but MAF cleaner is similar and should be safer for the plastic.
Last edited by wssix99; Mar 5, 2025 at 10:12 AM.
