1. Check the Fuses:
* Locate the fuse box: Your Tahoe likely has an under-hood fuse box and an interior fuse box (usually under the dash, sometimes in the glove box area). Consult your owner's manual for the exact locations and fuse diagrams.
* Identify the correct fuse: The manual will specify the fuse for the power windows. It might be a single fuse for all windows, or separate fuses for each window.
* Inspect the fuse: Look for a blown fuse (a broken filament inside the glass element). Replace any blown fuse with one of the same amperage rating. If the fuse blows immediately after replacement, you have a short circuit somewhere in the system – don't continue until you find and fix the short.
2. Check the Window Switch:
* Test the switch: Try the switch in various positions. If the switch is faulty, it won't send the correct electrical signal to the window motor.
* Test with another switch: If your Tahoe has multiple power windows, try using the driver's side master switch to operate the passenger window. If it works from the master switch but not the passenger switch, the passenger switch is the likely culprit.
* Check switch connections: With the switch removed, inspect the connections for corrosion, loose wiring, or broken wires. Clean the contacts if necessary.
3. Check the Window Motor and Regulator:
* Access the motor and regulator: This typically involves removing the interior door panel. There are numerous online tutorials showing how to do this for a 2001 Chevy Tahoe; be sure to find one specific to your model year. Take pictures as you disassemble to help with reassembly.
* Inspect the motor: Check for any obvious signs of damage, such as broken wires, burned components, or a seized motor. You might be able to test the motor directly with a multimeter (if you're comfortable with this), but this requires some electrical knowledge.
* Inspect the regulator: This is the mechanism that moves the window. Check for broken or bent parts, binding, or anything preventing smooth operation. Often, the cable on a regulator breaks or comes off.
4. Check the Wiring:
* Trace the wires: Carefully follow the wiring harness from the switch, through the door, and to the window motor. Look for any broken, frayed, or corroded wires. Pay close attention to areas where the wires bend and flex as the door opens and closes.
* Continuity test: Use a multimeter to check the continuity (electrical connection) of the wiring between the switch, and the motor. This requires some basic electrical knowledge.
5. Other Considerations:
* Child safety lock: Make sure the child safety lock isn't engaged. This sometimes prevents the window from operating from the passenger side.
* Window lock switch: Ensure the door's window lock switch isn't preventing operation.
* Grounding: A poor ground connection can sometimes cause electrical problems. Inspect the grounding points in the door for corrosion or loose connections.
Troubleshooting Flowchart:
1. Check Fuses: If blown, replace. If blows again immediately, you have a short circuit. Stop and find the short.
2. Check Passenger Switch: Test with driver's switch. If the driver's switch works, replace the passenger switch.
3. Check Window Motor and Regulator: Inspect for damage. Testing motor with multimeter is possible, but not necessary to simply identify a bad motor/regulator.
4. Check Wiring: Look for breaks, corrosion, or poor connections. Use multimeter if comfortable.
5. Check Safety Locks: Ensure child locks and door locks are not interfering.
If you're not comfortable with electrical work or disassembling car parts, it's best to take your Tahoe to a qualified mechanic. Attempting repairs beyond your skill level could potentially damage other components or even lead to injury.
