How To Diagnose Door Lock Actuator

The symptoms will get worse.

How to diagnose door lock actuator.

On manual locks the locking function operates by pushing or pulling on the door lock. If the unlock button fails to unlock the door you can rule out the remote and take a long look at the actuator. Door lock actuator problems use to be simple to diagnose and repair. Pictured on the right is a typical door lock actuator they installed on automobiles 20 years ago.

Power door locks behave erratically. Door lock systems operate the actuator by toggling positive negative voltage to the actuator. Power door locks do not function. In the old days they remained a separate component mounted to the door shell.

The concept of a door lock actuator works great until it doesn t. Car door lock actuators are designed to lock and unlock a door without the effort of pulling on a cable and rod. A rod connects the actuator to the latch and another rod connects the latch to the knob that sticks up out of the top of the door. 2004 honda odyssey ex passenger m.

A metal rod then made its way to the door latch to operate the lock mechanism. When the actuator fails or starts to fail you ll likely notice one or more symptoms that make your daily commute less pleasant. 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. A door lock actuator is basically a reversible motor or a solenoid on some vehicles with gears that operate the door lock.

How a door lock actuator works. Unusual noises coming from inside the door. A quick test can be performed from the driver s seat by using the electric lock button. Then use your test light or digital meter to check for power and ground at the connector when you operate the lock unlock switch.

In some cars the door lock actuator is positioned below the latch. You should see the voltage polarity toggle with each switch activation. Unplug the door lock actuator electrical connector.