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Can playing music too loud cause a car’s windows to drop?

Answer: It can in certain Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs.

Car Stereo Install
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If you own a 2018-2021 Chevrolet Equinox or GMC Terrain, you may want to think twice before blasting your jams on high volume. Aside from disrupting everyone around you, it could cause your windows to lower of their own accord.

General Motors has released a technical service bulletin (TSB) alerting drivers that their vehicles could drop the windows as much as a quarter inch if their music is played too loud. This is because the vibrations caused by loud music may cause the power window motor to lose its memory function. The car may also alert drivers with an “Open Then Close Driver Window” message.

The issue is classified as a TSB and not a recall because it doesn’t pose any immediate safety risks (although it does sound like it could be quite annoying). Fortunately, the TSB does have instructions for technicians on how to fix it by installing foam between the motor and inner door panel to muffle the vibrations.