Window getting harder to roll up

Been doing a bunch of preventative maintenance on my aging 08 Tacoma. Manual Windows. Driverside gets used the most, and I'm noticing lately that there is considerably more resistance when trying to roll it down compared to the passenger side window.

What could cause this and how can I fix it before it gets worse or breaks.

Don't think this is related but about 4 years ago I did have a thick stationary card fall down inside the window from some idiot solicitor. Me, also an idiot rolled the window down thinking it would just fall off...nope it got sucked down inside the abyss.

 

That’s probably the problem.

 

Remove the door panel and lube the window regulator also clean the window tracks really well. To start. Sometimes when worn, window regulators won’t move well.

 

It's not nearly as difficult to remove the door panel and inspect as you'd think. Even if you end up having to replace the regulator, it isn't "that" difficult or expensive

 

Have a picture of said regulator so I know what I'm looking at? Also window tracks seem self explanatory but you are referring to the vertical slot on each side of the window that it follows when you roll it down? What would you suggest cleaning it with that won't break it down?

 

Yes the vertical tracks that have the rubber seal the glass slides in just make sure they’re clean you can also spay a little silicon in them. In the picture lube the points circled and inspect the gear make sure you see no bent teeth and with a brush you can put a light coat of grease. Also lube the center where it makes a x. This may not be the exact one in your truck but it’s a good reference as to what you’ll see.

 

If any of the nylon wheels are really worn or cracked, you’ll need to replace the regulator.