CARspec had a common failure in the shop today – a failing door lock actuator.  The guest was concerned that the power door locks for the passenger front door didn’t work from the key fob or the switch, but the door was still lockable with the conventional key and interior latch.

The cause in this case was a failing door lock actuator, the motor and lever assembly that is the hub of the many door latches, switches, cables and position sensors that operate the door latch mechanism.  The technician removed the door panel and checked voltage to the actuator when using the fob – battery voltage was being applied to the actuator (this verifying the harness/upstream system was OK), but the actuator still would not operate.  The motor internal to the assembly was to blame.  Below is the old, failed unit next to the new actuator:

Lexus Door Lock Actuators

Lexus Door Lock Actuators

The failed motor is not available from Lexus as a serviceable part – the entire latch assembly is included.  The piece was replaced and the door locks, now working on all the door, were returned to service.

As Eden Prairie and Chanhassen’s independent Toyota and Lexus specialist, CARspec’s technicians are well versed the diagnostics and repair of Toyota and Lexus body mechanical and electrical systems.  If you’ve got door locks that don’t work, give us a call at (952)426-2798 today to set up an appointment today!