Well as stated, I'm going to attempt replacing my driver's side window... 2012 Grand Sport convertible... I'm simply looking for any advice from anyone who has done something similar... I've looked at all the videos where guys replaced their window regulators and I have a good idea of what needs to be done to simply replace the window.

Not really looking for how to correct my current window... it has several deep vertical deep scratches (were there when I bought the car), and I have already bought a new side window and the outer window weatherstrip... I figure there must have been some small rocks or something that caused them, because the scratches are straight as an arrow, so not manually made... that's why I'm also going to replace the outer weatherstrip.

I assume that the window should be completely in the up position? And since I'm replacing the outer weatherstrip, I assume I can remove it or should I remove it, and replace it with the new one before removing the old window... just wondering if it's better that the weatherstrip be in place when removing or replacing the window... I've read in another post that you simply have to pull up on the weatherstrip to remove it... just curious if this is how it's done, and that it's not attached some other way...
First step will be to disconnect the battery... remove the door panel (I've seen online how it's done)... can I expect to break some of the door panel retainers or if I'm careful I should be ok?

Once the door panel is removed there are some coverings (taped on the door) that need to be removed where the brackets that hold the window are located... Then I should make a few sharpie marks on the current window just beside the bracket so that I can transfer these marks to the new window so that it's aligned in the same place. Then I can loosen the bolts on the brackets (I don't think I need to remove the bolts, as after loosening them I should be able to remove the window.
Then I should be able to insert the new window, and tighten the bolts on the brackets... not sure if there are any torque specs for these bolts... want to make sure I don't over tighten and break the window. Then put on the door panel...

If anyone can provide any input if this seems a good way to do it... or if I should be doing something else, I'd appreciate it...

 

I have had the window out to replace the regulator and if I recall correctly if you leave the window rolled all the way up you will not be able to get on the two bolts to remove the glass from regulator.You may need to replace the two rubbers on the regulator at the two bolt hole locations depending on their condition.Careful with bolt torque or you will end up having to buy new glass

 

The removal and installation of the glass is fairly simple. If you have read the instructions on how to remove the regulator, then you know basically what is involved. The only difference is that you will not have to remove the regulator, just loosen the glass holding brakets, and lift the glass up straight and out through the opening.
The only suggestion is to notice where the old glass is located on those holding brakets, so you can mark the new glass with the same approx measurements. This will make it so you only have a minor adjustment to do when the new glass is installed. I've attached the window service section (2007) but it is the same on the 2012.
Page 71-72 of the PDF is the start of the glass removal procedure, followed by the installation procedure on page 79. The section also shows how to make the final glass adjustment so it is tight fitting in the

 

Thanks 4SUMERZ for the PDF file... I'm sure it will come in handy... one question... am I correct in thinking that the window should be in the full UP position in order to loosen the holding bracket nut/bolt?

 

YW The window should be in the full up position to access the window clamp nuts.

 

Thanks again... hopefully it all goes well!!!

 

You got this!!!! Let us all know the results.

 

Hi 4SUMERZ... I was looking at the PDF in the "Removal Procedure" section and just curious on page 74-75 where it says to remove the water deflector, and the speaker assembly... I did not think this had to be removed (and maybe it doesn't)... and then on page 77 it mentions to reconnect window switch, position window in full-up position, then disconnect window switch... it's almost like they are suggesting the window be down first, then position up later...
I think those steps aren't necessary, but I guess I'll see when I get to it...
Just wondered if you have any insight...
Thanks again...

 

The instructions in the manuals sometimes go overboard, and this is the case.
1) You do not need to remove the speaker
2) I think you may have to remove the water deflector (rubber seal on inside door skin) to get access to the glass holding brackets.
3) You will have to disconnect the window switch to fully remove the inner door panel, and prevent any accidental window operation.
4) I'm fairly certain that you can do this with the window fully up.


Hopefully, things will go well.