How do I replace Toyota 4Runner rear window motor 1991 Do I have to take the whole window out.?

Answer 1

No you don't have to remove the window. But it's easier if you move it out of the way.

If you can lower it enough to open the door. If you cant lower the door then you have to do all this sitting in the rear of the vehicle.

Remove the panel on the inside of the door and the metal support. Then pull back the plastic but be careful not to rip it so you can reuse it. Once all is off you will see the motor assembly on the right side of the door. Remove any connections from the motor. Now you need to get to the underside of the unit with an open end wrench. It is an 8mm bolt. There should be 3 bolts you need to take off. If you can this is when you need to move the window out of the way. So if the motor is stripped you should be able to wiggle the window out of the way. If not look for small hands to assist you. Remove one at a time and take it all the way out. Once you are down to the last one be careful If this is loosened and the window is up it can fall down and catch a finger. Or worse fall down inside and break. Loosen the last one and you should be able to move it enough to get the window to come down. Once down you can open the door and do the rest outside the car.

With the door down pull the window just far enough to get to the bolts and remove the motor. Then install a new motor with the window out. Then you may need to bypass the switch inside the door to lower the window. Watch the sides and ensure they are in the guides.

Lower the window and replace the parts you took off.

Note if you go to the auto wreckers for the motor you can use one from any of the windows, if you use drivers side window motor you will need to remove the gray little plug that reverses the polarity of the motor (it just pulls out), just compare it to the old motor and you'll see the plug I'm referring to.