Why Lubricate Your Car Window Tracks? When to Do It, Tips, and More

Lubricating your car window tracks is a crucial maintenance task that some overlook. Don’t make the same mistake.

The car window track guides the window when it moves up and down and keeps the window in the correct position as it moves. Manufacturers like Ford call the window track a “flocked run” because these channels are usually lined with a fuzzy or felt-like material known as “flocking” to reduce noise, friction, and wear on the glass.

Car window tracks need lubrication not only to ensure the windows move smoothly on them but also to prevent corrosion. Learn what signs to watch out for to know when to lubricate and how to do it the right way.

Why Is It Necessary to Lubricate Window Tracks?

Let’s dive deeper into the importance of window track lubrication. As mentioned, lubricating your car’s window tracks ensures smooth operation, prevents wear and tear, enhances safety, and increases weather resistance.

Ensures Smooth Operation

Like most car components, the window track accumulates dirt and grime over time, which affects the track’s performance and induces resistance when using the windows. This is because windows can get stuck if enough dirt and grime accumulate.

Even though the window run is lined with “flocking” you can use silicone lubricant to make the windows operate smoother. Dealership mechanics do this a lot.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating the window tracks goes a long way in ensuring smooth window operation. Cleanups get rid of the dirt, while the lubricant reduces the friction between the window and the track.

Even though the window run is lined with “flocking”, a fuzzy or felt-like material, you can use silicone lubricant to make the windows operate smoother. Dealership mechanics do this a lot.

– Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Prevents Window Wear

Friction between the track and window affects not only their efficient operation but also their lifespan. Applying lubrication removes unnecessary friction and acts as a layer of protection, essentially reducing window regulator wear.

Enhances Safety

Every second matters during emergencies. Being able to close or open the car window quickly is a must if you ever find yourself trapped in your car in such a way that you can’t exit through the doors. A properly lubricated window won’t have much resistance when opening, ensuring a faster escape.

Increases Weather Resistance

Window components like regulators and the strippings/seals can rust and corrode because they’re made of metal or have metal parts attached.

Adding lubrication to the window tracks gives these components a layer of protection against the elements. Regulators, in particular, are responsible for the window glass movement, and rust can interfere with their smooth operation.

Having the extra weather resistance prevents or minimizes the risk of corrosion, increasing the window’s lifespan.

Signs Your Car Window Track Needs Lubrication

Some signs your car’s window tracks need lubrication include sticking windows, unusual noises, uneven effort, increased resistance, and visible dirt.

Slow or Sticking Window

If your car window sticks or is slow to open or close, it’s time to apply lubricant.

Pro Tips are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.

Pro Tip: Silicone grease is best. Try to avoid using the spray, as it tends to attack the rubber backing of the flocked run.

Unusual Noises

Similarly, you might also hear squeaking, grinding, or other noises when you close or open the window because the cable and pulley style regulators have suffered damage from fighting the non-lubricated tracks.

Uneven Effort

Ideally, opening or closing your car window should only take one smooth movement. Unfortunately, a lack of lubrication can change that. The window might move unevenly or wobble when moving on Inadequately lubricated tracks due to increased friction.

Increased Resistance

If your car has roll-up windows, you might have trouble rolling them up after some time if there’s no lubricant to smoothen the way. This increases the effort needed to open or close the windows.

Visible Dirt and Debris

Lastly, visible dirt and debris indicate the need to clean and lubricate your window tracks. The accumulation of dirt could mean it’s been a while since you’ve added lubrication to the tracks.

How to Lubricate Car Window Tracks

To properly lubricate the window tracks, follow the steps below:

• Step 1: Roll the window down entirely to the track.
• Step 2: Use a brush to clean the tracks first. You can also use a soft cloth to remove residue from the tracks.
• Step 3: Apply silicone grease along the exposed track. Again, note that over time, silicone spray can cause the rubber to deteriorate.
• Step 4: Roll the window up and down to evenly spread the lubricant.
• Step 5: Use a window cleaner to remove excess lubricant on the window.

Lubricating Window Track Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Some window track lubrication tips to keep in mind include cleaning the tracks first, using the right lubricant for your needs, and following proper regular maintenance.

Always Clean the Tracks First

Lubricating dirty car window tracks would give you more problems down the line. The lubricant can compound the dirt and grime, increasing window resistance. So, be sure to lubricate the tracks only when they’re clean.

Find the Right Lubricant for You

There are different lubricants for window tracks, so picking the right one is crucial to ensure proper lubrication. Silicone sprays are a good choice if you’re in the market for a lubricant that’ll stick to the tracks in different weather conditions. Teflon and WD-40 are also good alternatives since they don’t attract dirt.

Apply Lubricant Properly

When you apply the lubricant, ensure the window is open before you spray it into the front and back window tracks. Doing so will evenly spread the lubricant while also lubricating the correct components.

Make Lubrication a Part of Your Maintenance Routine

Including window track lubrication in your upkeep checklist will ensure you won’t forget it. It also helps ensure that you won’t need to dedicate another day to this particular maintenance task.

Don’t Over-Apply Lubricant

Lastly, avoid adding too much lubricant to avoid buildups that can attract dirt and grime, which can lead to other issues like sticking. To get it right, apply a small amount first before testing out the smoothness of the window. You can stop adding lubrication once you can properly open and close it without resistance.