I purchased a 2008 Prius in July and have had no problems until recently. I found that if the temperature outside is less than 15 degrees, none of the windows will open. The windows act as if they are frozen shut. Once the temperature hits 16+ degrees the windows open just fine. Has anyone else had this problem?
You've got some moisture between the glass and the rubber gaskets around the windows. The moisture is freezing, preventing the windows from opening. My experience has been that when the cabin warms, the windows will work again.
I've had many vehicles with power windows do that in cold weather. At least the power unit will trip out. With hand crank windows, it's pretty easy to bust the winder if the glass is frozen to the gasket
Try a little silicone lubricant around the rubber seals once the windows will open. It will help keep moisture from building up on the seal surface. Tom