REPEAT INOPERATIVE CONDITION OF POWER WINDOW SWITCH

MODELS/YEARS 1989 CUTLASS CALAIS MODELS

A condition may occur on a 1989 Cutlass Calais where a power window is inoperative. Upon inspection of the respective power window switch, it may be determined that the switch has failed. The switch may have a blown contact as indicated by loss of the audible click or a change in the feel of the switch as it is operated.

The above condition is usually caused by a short to ground in the affected window circuit. This is most likely to occur where the harness passes through the inner door panel in the drivers door (see Figure 1).

When any power window switch fails in the master switch assembly, it is recommended to remove the driver's door trim panel and inspect the wiring harness for cuts and/or abrasions at the door inner panel pass through area. If any cuts or abrasions are found, repair the wiring harness (before replacing the switch) as per "REPAIR PROCEDURES" in Section 8A, cell 5 of the 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais Service Manual.

After repairs have been made to the wiring harness, the edges of the "pass through" should be covered with split tubing (see Figure 2) or tape to protect the wiring harness from future cuts and abrasions.

If no cuts or abrasions are found on the wiring harness at the pass through in the driver's door, the complete circuit from the failed switch to the respective power window motor should be traced to find and repair the short.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.