Weak door lock and window motors

[jberke]

Hi all,

Wanted to post this before I start taking things apart. When I use the driver's side door lock, most locks actuate, but one does it intermittently. Sometimes unlocks, sometimes doesn't. Also, there are two power windows that are very slow to raise. My initial thought is that these are both due to dirty switches and a good cleanup will work wonders. I'm hoping it isn't the actuators or motors, but I haven't ruled out replacing them. Am I on the right path or should I just replace these?

Thanks!

[ShagWagon]

Your on the right path.

Most problems are dirty corroded switches. Qtip and some marvel mystery oil or favorite corrosion cleaner and go to town. Lots of small pieces so get a box or something enclosed to do your work so you don't lose any small springs and pins.

Get some syl-glide to lube everything up for windows, channels and actuators. Check the window channels.

[letank]

for the window motors, check each ground, they are usually a bit dirty, rusted...

as for the switches, I am at a loss, I cleaned but I have a similar issue, driver's door switch does not unlock driver's door, but passenger switch unlocks driver's door...

[tgreese]

Electric locks have to have a motor (solenoid) that causes the action. I would also look at the condition of those motors, with an eye to cleaning and lubrication.

The best contact cleaner is Caig DeOxit. "Technician in a can."

[HowardT64]

I need to sit down with mine and clean them real good. Lube everything and such.

[jberke]

Thanks all, have a good project this weekend!

[KiwiWagoneer]

I was having similar issues with the door locks - did the drivers door lock today with a bit of WD40 on all the mechanical parts, instant improvement with very little effort, central locking now works as does the key. I'd recommend one of those panel remover tools though - had one this time and it is a much easer / safer way to wrench off the panels.

[ShagWagon]

They have a nylon prybar tool kit. Used mainly for interior pieces so you don't scratch them.

Probably the best $2.99 I ever spent at harbor freight 9 years ago.