How To Diagnose Door Lock Actuator

You should see the voltage polarity toggle with each switch activation.

How to diagnose door lock actuator.

In the old days they remained a separate component mounted to the door shell. Door lock actuator problems use to be simple to diagnose and repair. Another symptom of a potential problem with the power door lock actuators are door locks that behave erratically. If the actuators have any sort of internal or wiring issue it may cause them to rapidly lock and unlock unexpectedly or cause them to function intermittently.

The symptoms will get worse. Usually a bad or failing power door lock actuator will produce a few symptoms that can notify the driver of an issue that should be serviced. If the unlock button fails to unlock the door you can rule out the remote and take a long look at the actuator. Unusual noises coming from inside the door.

Power door locks behave erratically. Car door lock actuators are designed to lock and unlock a door without the effort of pulling on a cable and rod. Unplug the door lock actuator electrical connector. Helpful guide on diagnosing power door lock problems with the passenger multiplex control unit and the door lock actuators.

In some cars the door lock actuator is positioned below the latch. On manual locks the locking function operates by pushing or pulling on the door lock. Door lock systems operate the actuator by toggling positive negative voltage to the actuator. A quick test can be performed from the driver s seat by using the electric lock button.

The concept of a door lock actuator works great until it doesn t. Pictured on the right is a typical door lock actuator they installed on automobiles 20 years ago. How a door lock actuator works. A door lock actuator is basically a reversible motor or a solenoid on some vehicles with gears that operate the door lock.

Then use your test light or digital meter to check for power and ground at the connector when you operate the lock unlock switch. Power door locks do not function. A metal rod then made its way to the door latch to operate the lock mechanism.