Broken Subaru window regulator autopsy and fix strategy

When I needed to replace a broken window regulator on a 2013 Subaru Forester, I was really annoyed that I could not find ANY information about what typically fails on these types of regulators. Was this something I could fix or did we just have to buy a whole new regulator? It seems in the auto parts industry these days people just simply replace parts without ever trying to see what failed on that particular part. I know time is money and with shops, replacing is quicker and likely cheaper, but for a home DIY'er, fixing stuff is possible. So, due to lack of information, we were forced to buy a new regulator: $211 from the Subaru dealer (or $100 for some dubious quality aftermarket part so we went OEM Subaru.) There are good tips here for if you have one of these fail, it may be a quick and easy fix to get it working again. Subaru Forester Windows Regulator Part number: 61041SC031