Here's a breakdown of how to approach the problem:
1. Safety First:
* Disconnect the battery: This is crucial to prevent further damage or electric shock. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal first.
2. Identifying the Faulty Window:
* Isolate the problem: Is it all the windows, or just one? This will narrow down the search area.
3. Diagnosing the Short:
This is the hardest part and may require some electrical knowledge or professional help. Here are some approaches:
* Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the wiring harness for each window. Look for:
* Frayed wires: These are common causes of shorts.
* Burnt or melted wires: Indicates significant heat buildup from a short circuit.
* Wires touching metal: This is a direct short.
* Damaged connectors: Check for broken or corroded connectors at the window motors and switches.
* Continuity Test (Requires a multimeter): If you have a multimeter, you can test the continuity of the wires. This will help identify breaks or shorts in the wiring. Caution: Only do this with the battery disconnected.
* Checking the Window Motor: Sometimes, a faulty motor can cause a short. You might need to remove the door panel to access the motor and test its resistance (again, with a multimeter).
* Testing the Switch: A faulty window switch can also cause problems. You can try swapping switches (if you have multiple windows affected) to see if the problem follows the switch.
4. Temporarily Raising the Window (If Safe):
* If the short is minor and you've identified the specific faulty window (and are comfortable working with electricity): You *might* be able to carefully manually raise the window. This usually involves accessing the window regulator mechanism through the door panel. Consult a repair manual for your specific model for instructions. This is a temporary solution and should *only* be done if you're confident you won't make the situation worse.
5. Repairing the Short:
* Replace damaged wiring: This might involve splicing in new wire or replacing sections of the harness.
* Repair or replace connectors: Clean or replace corroded connectors.
* Replace the window motor or switch: If testing indicates a faulty component, replace it.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual for your 1999 Buick Regal is invaluable. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable working with car electrics, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improper repairs can cause further damage.
* Safety: Always disconnect the battery before working on any electrical components.
Simply trying to force the window up without addressing the short could lead to more serious damage, including fire. Focus on finding and fixing the root cause of the short circuit.
