In fixing Ford power window switches, one striking feature is the extensive use of relays on the window master switch. The relays are called accessory delay relay (which also called safety relay), battery saver relay and the one touch relay.

On earlier Ford models of power window switches, they are always powered by accessory delay relay. The battery saver relay is used to prevent battery drain when the vehicle is shut down. The one touch relay is the equivalent of the express down and up button of GM power window switches for fast window movement. All these relays get its power from the fuse box and oftentimes grounded by generic electronic module (GEM) which is equivalent to GM’s body control module or BCM. Sometimes, the ground supply would come directly from the microprocessor chip in the instrument panel. With the basic Ford window switches like these, it was easier to troubleshoot by following the respective wiring diagram.

For 2006-2007 models of Ford power window switches, these relays are still present but with different locations. Unlike the older version where the relays are installed remotely or housed inside the fuse box itself, most are embedded inside the power window master switches on the driver side. This design is evident specially on the one touch relay which is common to the GM master express switches. On the same token, it has more functions to handle aside from running the 4 power window motors.

One feature that I also noticed here is the inclusion of the lock/unlock button in the window master switch. In this newer design, the power to the power window switch comes also from the fuse but always grounded by either the cluster microchip or GEM module. However, the new style has simpler operational functions when compared to GM vehicles. In Fords power window master switches, it is not required to reprogram when they are replaced. Most programming is done on the GEM module or the cluster itself is completely replaced. It is important to emphasize that before you can start fixing Ford power window switches to have the appropriate wiring diagram. This way, you can trace the correct wiring and power window components of your specific Ford vehicle.

The troubleshooting techniques shown in my previous blog still applies:

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Fixing Ford power window switches tips:

1.) Start your troubleshooting by retrieving the GEM or body control module codes using a code reader or scanner

2.) If you suspect the power supply to the window switch is open, you can use a jumper wire from the battery positive terminal. If the power window motor works, you can back probe the power supply wires at the door jamb, relays, GEM or instrument cluster and fuses.

3.) If you have intermittent power supply to the power window switch and the door jamb technique does not work, try tapping the fuse box by the engine compartment. If the loose connection is present, the problem will suddenly appear.

4.) When testing a faulty ground supply, probe the suspected terminal with LED end of the test light and put the clip on the battery positive. When you turn the key on and the test light works, it means that particular wire is really grounded. This is a practical way of using current load test on the wire instead of voltage drop test that I mentioned before. Even if the wire has 2-3 strands left, it can still register a voltage reading. However, the current reading however will tell you if it can carry a load like a motor winding.

To ensure success and savings in fixing Ford power window switches, get a service manual handy and an online mechanic to assist you. Remember, most garages charge $100 an hour to work on your Ford vehicles.

Thanks,

Richard

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