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Porsche 993: How to Replace Power Window Actuator

If one or both of your Porsche 993's power windows aren't working, it's likely that the actuator motor needs to be replaced. This guide will show you how to change it yourself.

By Jared Hammond - April 16, 2015
Contributors: syoo8

This article applies to the Porsche 993 (1993-1998).

If your window isn't going up and down like it should, it's probably because the part that moves it isn't receiving power. The solution could be as simple as a bad wire connection or a blown fuse. But in the worst case, your actuator motor is malfunctioning. The part itself is inexpensive if you can find a working used one. The instructions below will show you how to put in a new actuator.

Materials Needed

  • Replacement window actuator
  • Ratchet w/ 10 mm socket + extension
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Allen wrench
  • Duct tape
  • Brake cleaner
  • Lithium grease

Step 1 – Raise the window and remove the door panel

Manually raise the window to its fullest height by pulling up on the glass. Tape it with duct tape on the top and sides so it won't slip and fall. Remove the screws around the door handle and bottom of the door panel. Once all the screws are removed, you should be able to pop off the door panel. Don't force it. If it doesn't give, there's probably another screw you missed.

Figure 1. Remove door panel.

Pro Tip

If you have door panel speakers installed, you'll have to remove those as well. Simply remove the screws from around the speaker and disconnect the speaker plug.

Step 2 – Remove the window regulator

The window regulator is held by four 10 mm bolts around the center of the door. Remove these and the regulator should come loose. You'll then need to slip the small plastic rollers off the guide rails. Disconnect the electrical plug going to the actuator. To remove the whole assembly you'll have to slide it out the large opening at the bottom of the door.

Figure 2. Slide the regulator out the bottom of the door.

Step 3 – Remove the window actuator

The actuator is attached to the regulator by three 10 mm bolts. Remove these to remove the actuator. Now would also be a good time to check the regulator for any signs of decay. Clean the assembly with some brake cleaner and apply a bit of lithium grease. This should help smooth the movement of the windows later on.

Figure 3. Actuator motor.

Step 4 – Install new window actuator

Attach the replacement actuator and bolt it to the regulator with the three 10 mm bolts. The rest of the installation is simply the reversal of the previous steps:

  • Insert regulator assembly into the car door.
  • Reconnect the electrical plug to the actuator.
  • Insert small plastic rollers into the guide rails.
  • Bolt the regulator to the door with four 10 mm bolts.

Remove the duct tape and allow the window to sit on the regulator. Test the power windows by raising and lowering the windows several times. It should go much faster now thanks to the grease. When you are satisfied, reattach the door panel and fasten it in place.

Figure 4. Enjoy your power windows.

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