2004 Window Problems, trunk release

[usatodaygirl]

Let me start out by first saying that I absolutely adore my Toyota!

She has 101,000 miles and is really put through the ringer. I drive about 250 miles a day and the windows are constantly going up and down. I have an issue with the bracket that attaches the window to the arm. They are made of plastic and eventually wear out causing the windor to come out of the track. Has anyone had a problem with this? We have jimmy rigged the drivers side and now the passenger side is starting to go. Would love some input if anyone has any.

The cable for the trunk release has "broken" or "come off". Does anyone know where it runs and what I need to take off to get to it?

Thanks,

Laurie

[ToyotaDealer]

what you're having is window regulator troubles. they're not entirely uncommon in Toyota's and we usually do 1 or so a day on various models.

they're pretty expensive parts, at $311 per window, assuming yours are power windows. the reason for the cost is due to the power window motor. the regulator is only sold through toyota with the motor attached. therefore you're buying the regulator (about a $100 part) and a motor (about $200 part). it sounds like all you really need is the window regulator itsself.

[ToyotaDealer]

sorry, forgot about your cable question.

it obviously starts out down on the floor board, for the trunk release. runs under the floor carpet to the drivers side wheel arch.. up the arch.. into the pillar a small amount.. then over to the trunk (probably through the hollow beam that secures the trunk to the vehicle). and then over to the locking mechanism located behind the license plate.

[usatodaygirl]

If they are not uncommon, then why hasn't Toyota addressed the problem? This is my fifth toyota and it is the first time I have had this issue. The motors work fine so I guess we will just put a different washer and bolt on the passenger side also. Not stock parts, but they work and it's a hell of a lot cheaper. Know anything about the trunk release?

Thanks

[usatodaygirl]

I've been meaning to replace those back speakers, looks like I might be able to kill two birds with one stone. Thanks again!

[ToyotaDealer]

Originally Posted by usatodaygirl

If they are not uncommon, then why hasn't Toyota addressed the problem?

This is my fifth toyota and it is the first time I have had this issue.

you answered your own question. regulators are parts that wear out, just like the previous generation goes through antenna's, and the corolla/camry's go through door handles.

not every single window regulator will have a problem.. and when you consider there is 350,000 vehicles produced, x 4 window regulators..for a problem that MAYBE 1/16th of the owners will ever experience. there aren't enough failing to warrant a national recall, or TSB.. not to mention you have to take into account the amount of owners who abuse the parts, the amount of vehicles who have 150,000 miles and are just wearing out, or other adverse conditions.

i didn't say we replace 1 a day on brand new vehicles, or your vehicle. we replace them from everything like your situation to an '85 pickup truck.