Car Door Lock Actuator Repair/Replacement...$8 - Complete Instructions - Toyota, Lexus & Others

You will learn how to Repair/Replace Your Car Door Lock Actuator. Complete Instructions on how to do this project from start to finish. If you just want to replace the whole door latch with actuator (simple job) or you want to save money and take the door latch mechanism apart and just replace the motor that operates the door lock, this video will show you the process for either one.
It was a hassle for the owner not to be able to open the drivers side door with the remote and this repair was a blessing for them and restored the convenience and safety of having that option.
*If this video was a help to you give it a "thumbs up". If you have not already done so, please consider subscribing to this channel.
Disclaimer:
Although I have been following these procedures for many years; I assume no liability for any damage that may occur to any person or property as a result of the information provided in this video. I take necessary precautions (that I am aware of) when working on these projects but that in no way implies or creates any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any kind of particular result. Any injury, damage or loss of any kind to anyone or their property or anything related to information in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Helping U Online (this video).
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[@Chrisjonpage]

amazing, i was just quoted $600 for a lock actuator replacement, gonna give it a try myself thanks to you!

[@helpinguonline]

Depending on what model car you have... some of the complete actuators are not expensive and all you need to do is change out the complete module. In my case the complete module was expensive so it made sense to just change the little motor. You can do it...

[@2degucitas]

How'd it work out?

[@LimitedCapacity]

What!! Are you kidding me!

[@peacepoet1947]

​@@helpinguonlinenice work. Your memory for remembering how it goes back together is amazing that you had to wait for the part to arrive. I can't remember where I put my keys if I don't hang them on the hook.

[@marwanemanousi8023]

​@@helpinguonlineX😂

[@paimonnn]

thank you!! I’m a college student who wouldn’t have been able to afford to take my car in to get this fixed. My dad and I watched this video and we were able to get it in working order!

[@helpinguonline]

Way to go! And a sweet memory working together with your dad

[@dougxavier4445]

I was quoted 500/600 dollars just to have my dor opened( it was locked) and additionally the cost of whatever it you be for fixing the locking mechanism. I unlocked my door myself for zero dollars and I’m going to fix my locking mechanism myself. Thank you!

[@helpinguonline]

If you do not want to replace the motor you may want to consider just replacing the whole actuator mechanism. Some are very reasonably priced and that is not a very difficult project and you would still save hundreds of dollars

[@dougxavier4445]

@@helpinguonline that’s what I did. Thanks.

[@mohammedlabeeb]

I love it. the dealership told me it will be $853 for the parts and labor. All I need is to rewatch your video 100 times and do it lol.

[@helpinguonline]

Or If you are concerned about tearing it down that far find out what an actuator would cost for your make and model car and that’s a pretty simple job.

[@jorged0712]

realizing dealerships are always a ripoff is the first step to becoming a great diyer. next step is realizing you can do, with your own two hands, what others do with their own two hands and there's no need to pay anyone for something you can do

[@dobleclanger]

You can get a used actuator from a Toyota car wreckers (or online I guess). I got one to suit my '99 model from a wrecker for $20aud. Not fitted yet.

[@TheBrainiac777]

Great tutorial, followed it and fixed my door lock for $11!

[@helpinguonline]

Great to hear!

[@rickwilliam4001]

Just wanted to say thanks for this, whilst there are a fair few other related videos, yours showed it's possible to open it up without cutting it open and without having to worry all that much about springs and gears flying out everywhere. Having a walk through video certainly gives more confidence and takes the guess work out of where screws and lugs are located etc. My issue ended up being a bit of water somehow got in (the foam on the wires connected to the handle were wet) or the grease got dirty and the contacts on the sliding mechanism were obviously not touching. Cleaned them and bent them back into position and all working. Literally saved over $600 as Christopher Page also mentioned. Much appreciated.

[@rexkirkland3720]

I recently paid over $600 for this same repair on my Hyundai Sonata. I wish I had seen your video first.

[@JacyBee]

The actuator on my PT Cruiser is bad, thanks for giving me some confidence to try this.

[@dickmadison9619]

I managed to get the door open today. I think the handle had the rod in a bind. A lot of banging and prying with screwdrivers worked enough that it popped open. Now a happy camper :)

[@helpinguonline]

Nice work!

[@user-uh5ll9hv5e]

One of the best car DIY videos I've seen. Really straightforward, well filmed and engaging presentation. Top class stuff.

[@helpinguonline]

Wow, thanks!

[@joselondono4837]

That's how an instructional video should be! Thanks.

[@helpinguonline]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jairodomech7457]

oh man thats what my car is doing; i couldnt find the same car video but i think is the same situation. I will keep you posted. Thank You.

[@helpinguonline]

you can do it... and you may want to check out the price of the whole actuator. Some are reasonably priced and that makes the change / repair easy.

[@dalerose938]

Awesome how to video! I just had the same problem on my 2002 Camry. I made this repair in an afternoon for $10. Thanks for posting this information!

[@helpinguonline]

Way to go!…& glad to help

[@nancym122]

Great video thank you for explaining everything in details I will be trying this soon on my own.

[@dennismayer4936]

A picture says a thousand words... your video says much more. Good job! Thanks

[@helpinguonline]

Thank you too!... Glad to hear!

[@roydevis6790]

The best video, explanation everrrr thanks

[@helpinguonline]

Glad it helped!

[@nestorespinoza1602]

Great video. I replaced the whole assembly. But your instructions where superb. Thank you.

[@helpinguonline]

Way to go!

[@williamday7132]

Congratulations on a successful repair and a great video. Thank you!

[@helpinguonline]

Thanks

[@musicalokaoficial]

200 thousand Doritos later, I found out this video. And thank you for it. I have a 2013 Honda accord and this is my 3rd lock actuator is had been replaced. So next time I will do this and see if I can save some money. Thank you very much.

[@helpinguonline]

Glad I could help. If you don’t want to go into the actuator and change the motor… You may want to check pricing on the hole actuator… That would be easy to replace and sometimes they are reasonably priced. Wishing you the best!

[@Mattheus94]

Solid video. Saved me $700.00/door for my 2004 Infiniti FX35.

[@helpinguonline]

Glad to hear it

[@JermsDNA]

Excellent video. I shall try this on my CT200H

[@MarkTimms]

Nice video mate that's my job for Saturday thanks for the tips cheers

[@doctorbobdc]

Thanks a lot for this video. I had ordered what I thought was the correct actuator for my "95 Camry. As it turned out, it was totally not the correct one. This I discovered after receiving the part, which is the same time I dismantled the door. The parts website appeared correct, but sometimes there is a difference if the car was made in Japan vs the U.S. My Camry was made in Japan, and now I know to be more careful when ordering parts. Well, I thought to either cannibalize the new part and hope the motors are the same or take mine apart and see if I can fix something. After taking mine apart, I saw a bit of smoke arise from the motor when testing it. Also, the motor has a funny thing on its outside. It looks like a dime-sized disc slipped in between two contact plates. The disc has the number "5007" engraved on it and it appears dirty &/or oxidized. Without the disc in place, and the two contact plates touching, the motor works like a banshee. So, I figured that the disc is some sort of resistor, or other electrical component and may itself be the problem. Knowing that oxidation can affect electrical contacts, I cleaned the contact plates and the disc and put it back in. Violá. It's up and running. Now we'll see how long it lasts. NOTE: On this Japanese-made Camry, you may need to remove the latch assembly through the door handle opening. That's what I ended up doing.

[@helpinguonline]

You got a good camera if it’s built in Japan

[@brb1050]

You are a HERO!!! Going to do this on my car soon. $460 for new actuator on my 2018 RAV4. Nope! Going to replace the motor.

[@helpinguonline]

You might want to check the price on the complete actuator with the door lock and everything included for your car. Some of the RAV four actuators are quite an expensive and very simple to unbolt and bolt back in place

[@brb1050]

@@helpinguonline Napa reduces the price from $460 to $289 if bought online. They are trying to push purchases online over in store. I was willing to pay the $289 (x2, both front doors!). But I walked out because of the insane in store cost. I’ll check online. I loathe Amazon, so hopefully ebay or some other source will have a good quality actuator at lower cost.

[@queenbuger1118]

had the same issue, study the video now , plant to work on it next weekend.

[@naftalishiraeisenberg4944]

Great video i changed the lock myself and it works great! Thanx a lot!

[@helpinguonline]

Way to go!

[@tuckerray8988]

Great video! Thank you

[@tptrading_23]

love the " HE!! HE!! HE!!" at the end. you are awesome!

[@rodrocketoz3913]

Cleaver took all the mystery out of the equation cheers

[@4godandcountry663]

Great video. I have a Lexus LS 430 that I need to do both driver and passenger front doors. This video helps. Thx

[@helpinguonline]

No problem 👍... you can do it!

[@JBH123]

Nicely demonstrated and explained. Unfortunately, I have a Kia, and removing its actuator is MUUUUUCH more difficult. This is one area where Toyota's design is light-years ahead of Kia's - at least the older ones like mine (2007). Anyway, thanks for posting this. I'm sure it will help, and has helped, many Toyota and Lexus owners.

[@ConroyEnjoyer94]

Massively helpful. Cheers mate

[@deafdeadfishfloating]

My take is ALL Toyota's with electric locks; motor (shaft length) may vary.

[@davidm3210]

Great tutorial, thank you kind sir.

[@mendyp8]

Great video! just checking is there somewhere I can find out what motor do I need for a 2003 Toyota Corolla? I don’t want to take it apart before I get the replacement

[@loopan00]

Thank you.. managed to solve my problem watching this video.. mine its a Japanese manufactured car and the door system looked exactly the same. And I watched other video to fix my small dc motor too.. tooked me 2 days and no $$ spent!

[@helpinguonline]

Glad it helped

[@fujiobass]

Thank you for detailed excellent video. Appreciated.

[@helpinguonline]

You are welcome!

[@shizziebizz]

Thank you. I will try this on my prius

[@NILESHBAHIR]

Great Video. I have similar issue on my 2013 Kia Ex GDi Sedan. I have a hunch that it's an actuator as well. This video gives me confidence in disassembling the door panel ! Thank you.

[@helpinguonline]

Glad it helped

[@wisaac6502]

Great job only cost 5 bucks and some enthusiasm well done thanks for sharing

[@helpinguonline]

Thanks

[@alexandersn9084]

Thank you!! Great video very well explained it! I just fixed my 2006 Toyota Corolla. Not a cambry but its the same

[@helpinguonline]

Great to hear!

[@frankiejo6988]

Thank you so much. Your video is so detailed and helped me so much.

[@helpinguonline]

Glad it helped

[@F35lightII]

Great video, thanks for posting.

[@helpinguonline]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@Mauricio5689]

Gracias por tu vídeo

[@davidabela4505]

Thank you so much ... excellent video!!!

[@helpinguonline]

Thanks for your visit

[@patrickzadd5215]

Dude you are a legend thank you.

[@helpinguonline]

You're welcome!

[@hopbui7071]

Thanks a lot .You Pro ,You're helping very much.💓💓💓

[@helpinguonline]

Glad I could help

[@leerudd1294]

One of the most intuitive videos I've seen on how to get one of these locks apart. It's similar to my UK Verso 2010 model, and now gives me confidence in fully taking apart the locking mechanism, as it seems very hard to get new ones for right hand drive at reasonable prices, and for the price of a new motor, I'll definitely be giving this a go. I just don't have a safe place to leave my car, so just need to track down the correct motor before I take it apart. Thanks for the video. :D

[@leerudd1294]

Finally got some motors from China, and it made no change. Door still will only lock, but won't unlock all doors or the drivers door. So looks like it may be either an electrical fault in a wire somewhere, or something else is broken in the door locking system??

[@jaydog121]

Thank you so much, I was apprehensive, but I was able to complete this project today. And the feeling of it actually working was amazing! Thank you soooooo much. Motor on Amazon was $8.99. Car was a 2010 Lexus es 350

[@helpinguonline]

Great job!

[@BfreeBob]

Great tutorial!

[@helpinguonline]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@hapetaa]

Good explanation. thanks for posting.

[@helpinguonline]

Glad it was helpful!

[@adam1979NSmcc]

Such a great video

[@Rasinzz]

Do I need a 10mm or a 20mm flat shaft motor? Also are there any special tools I'll need for this or is it all pretty basic/common tools?

[@GB-vo8xc]

Thx

[@wangfeng175]

Wonderful！

[@mariosamoeil9287]

Great video 🙌

[@helpinguonline]

Thanks for the visit

[@lalo2641]

Thanks

[@tonymorales7152]

Great video, you are very good explaining the "how to" process. So good that I opened my wifes Honda CRZ actuator and successfully got it out. My problem know is it doesn't have any manufacturer name to find it. Could you provide the website where you purchased yours. Thank you in advance for your help. Saludos from Puerto Rico, Tony

[@outof_sarahtonin]

He said amazon

[@ricktimmons458]

thanks. on my to do list.

[@helpinguonline]

You can do it

[@youdagoob]

I had my new motor ready to install. Opened the actuator. I pried open the actuator on the motor side and it could've been an easy swap out. But then I found the plastic shaft of the gear spindle was actually broken. Gotta order the entire actuator now. ) : But this was a great tutorial. The entire actuator will be an easy swap now.

[@helpinguonline]

Sorry to hear the gear shaft was broken. Keep up the good work!

[@Gauxd1]

You could use epoxy paste to repair the gear.

[@jrobertocastillo]

Gracias amigo you help me a lot

[@helpinguonline]

glad I could help

[@nicholasbarbier3310]

wonderful video

[@helpinguonline]

Many thanks

[@beachwave2]

Great video thanks.

[@helpinguonline]

You bet

[@americanpatriot5836]

Great video

[@helpinguonline]

Thanks!

[@kenluu8031]

Awesome..! It's a great video. I wish you with all the best as well.

[@helpinguonline]

Thank you! You too!

[@SuperDEMIRIS]

Your video is very nice, could you please tell me the link of the moter you bought??, thank you very much

[@alovera1357]

Takk. It was useful

[@xmandough]

Saved me a lot of money.

[@helpinguonline]

Glad to hear!

[@JCsongwriter1]

Ooooohhhh thank you Lord lol! Good work

[@helpinguonline]

Thanks. I am thankful for all the "doors" He opens for me!

[@JCsongwriter1]

@@helpinguonline literally 😎🙏

[@relquo]

Nice

[@rossim1918]

Wow, thanks. One of my door lock just went out on my 02 sienna so this very helpful. Any chance getting the motor info and link to purchase?

[@helpinguonline]

I hesitate to give you the motor number because there are different motors that go into different actuators. Having said that here is a link for the one I ordered... BUT make sure you check to make sure it is the same for your van. www.amazon.com/Central-Actuator-FC-280PC-22125-Spindle-Locking/dp/B00BYD0QVK/ref=asc_df_B00BYD0QVK/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198072808542&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10626720873324796142&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9009968&hvtargid=pla-321309836635&psc=1 There are many places you can order this part... not just this link. Also, you might want to look into the cost of a whole replacement actuator for your Sienna. Your van might take an actuator that costs around $25. If that is the case and you want to save lots of time (it's very easy to change the actuator) you may want to consider that?. Either way you will save yourself lots of money. Dealerships charge around $600 to do one. Hope that helps and let us know how your project turns out

[@miguelho-peng2088]

Nice shoes bro and good job 👏

[@miguelho-peng2088]

This video helped me alot

[@helpinguonline]

Glad to hear that

[@melissaskitchen8832]

When my mechanic replaced my actuators, the key fob stopped working. When I try to reprogram it, the system rejects it. What’s worse is that when I use the actual key to open the door manually, the security alarm goes off until I put the key in the ignition. Any idea what might have happened? I have a 2000 Lexus RX 300

[@SASHA1536]

its a good video ..but make sure you place the end of the cable it's housings properly otherwise you will have clicking sounds but no locking ..end of the cables (door handle end) has to snap on its housings and stay secure (it was the case on my 2012 Camry)

[@adamp2574]

Just did mine today and you're correct. I didn't push the connector all the way back so it clicked but would not work.

[@mikepurewal5816]

Hi from Victoria BC Canada. Your step by step video was amazing. Thanks for the FREE Information that will save many people hundreds of dollars. I salute you! Now I have a project for the weekend. I've had this compact suv for almost 21 years now. Do you know were I can order the Actuator(s) for a 2001 Rav4?

[@helpinguonline]

I have seen many Rav4 complete actuators (not just the motor) quite reasonable. I purchased mine online through ebay and you can get them on Amazon. Changing the whole Actuator is a pretty quick and easy job. Make sure when you order one that you get the one for the specific door you are working on... ie drivers door or front passenger door...etc.

[@mikepurewal5816]

@@helpinguonline thanks for the reply, but on Amazon there were many different brands and they vary in price from about $20 to $140, I've heard some brands only last few days. I'm not sure which brand to go with. Any suggestions without braking the bank?

[@warriorplutotrent3827]

This would make the inside door lock freeze as well as the outside lock cylinder?

[@jordanlagutan8685]

You gotta love this man @ 15:46 🤣🤣

[@yingyangorca4124]

I just open them up. It says you can't but I do. Pull everything apart. And put back together. Arms tend to jump each other and can't pass back. The reassembly usually fixes. Just photos and retrace your steps.

[@redgreen610]

Has anyone done this with a 2005 echo/yaris hatchback. Would love to know if motor is d shaft 10 mm. Thanks. All 4 doors have gradually stopped working except the hatch lock.

[@johnoceanyang5522]

Good

[@ryansmerfy9307]

Can you show how to fix the latch problem? My rear left door could not lock the door!

[@claytons8263]

Will this also work on a 05 Ford Explorer?

[@dickmadison9619]

I would like to see how you disconnected and reattached the " rod" from the door handle in order to remove and reinstall the actuator.

[@summerrain3744]

Would this work for a 2008 pontiac g6?

[@mmyelsadawi]

Hi, i have lexus es250 model yr 2014. I can see many motors online Which one should i order? Pls assist

[@Horse_Cock_Express]

Thanks! Question: if I install a brand new actuator on my drivers door will I need to reprogram my key fob or will it work with the new part? 2010 Toyota Avalon

[@helpinguonline]

most cars have a receiver that picks up the signal from your key fob so your new actuator should work

[@ovidiudriga7787]

Thanks for the video. Please, the black silicone/glue was used again or you used new one for glueing the plastic transparent cover (water and dust protection)? If mine (silicone/glue) is very old and do not stick, what type can I use? Thsnk you.

[@helpinguonline]

I always just use what is already there and have never had a problem. If you are concerned about that I am sure your local auto parts store has something or you could use something as simple as double sided tape.

[@ovidiudriga7787]

Thank you. I will use high tempereture black silicone.

[@bupgmobile6662]

With my car if i put the key in and turn it only the drivers door opens and just sometimes the rest of the doors open like 15min later. So do i have to change the driversside actuator?

[@ebo7310]

Is this the same as a Mode door actuator.

[@victorvargas3428]

Can y’all help me i have a 1995 Nissan Sentra i bought a key fob the first step to program it is to lock the doors but both my driver side and passenger side doesn’t lock it only unlocks the doors please help thank you

[@riooliveira7417]

Do you have tutorial for Triton 2017 door latch replacement please!!??..thank you

[@helpinguonline]

I do not currently have a video of that vehicle for this.

[@markchidester6239]

What years does this apply to?

[@user-kr5ui8yy2w]

I have a 2008 Ford Escape, and my passenger side door occasionally doesn’t want to lock. For awhile It was just off and on; sometimes it would, and other times it wouldn’t. Now it altogether will not lock. The little prong on the outside of the door doesn’t go down when closing; it stays in one spot. I’ve checked the fuses? Could this be the actuator or something else? Please let me know! My car just got robbed because of this door!!!! Help!

[@Casanovafff]

Kick ass

[@CENTAUR559]

How do you find out which actuator motor works for your vehicle? I have a 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor. I've seen some have different tip shapes

[@helpinguonline]

I have a second vehicle so I wasn't in a hurry. I took it apart to see which motor it had and then ordered it to make sure I got the right one. You could probably do research online and find out which one your car has and order it.

[@Shafqatn81ya]

I have a problem, key error, and vehicle doors lock and open continuously during running car, pls advice

[@AmiylahChambers]

would I still be a able to do this even if i didn’t have a key fob ? my mom gave me her old car,she use to have a key fob but she left the windows open when it rained and messed up the locks in the doors. it was unlocking and locking by them selves so my dad took the fuse out so it wouldn’t do that. anyways when i checked to see if a fuse was in the car it’s one in there and it’s not blown but the car still won’t lock or unlock inside in the driver side panel. i wonder if i do this would it be able to fix the locks on all doors so i can get a key fob

[@helpinguonline]

It might.

[@dongnippano156]

Good video but I have a few friends who tried this on their Lexus RXs. The door unlocked when it should have locked so three doors locked and one unlocked. Or 1 door locked and three open. It’s hit of miss with these cheap Chinese motors as you don’t know which way the polarity is. I had 4 doors go out on my 2002 RX and just bought reconditioned OEM full units off eBay for $100 each and installed them myself. Lifetime guaranteed.

[@matthewcooper1973]

I have an 08 gx470 with rear gate locking issues, would this motor replacement be possible and would this be the same D shaft motor that is in the gate assembly. Great video btw!

[@helpinguonline]

I have not done one of those and I don't know what type of motor it takes. If you are not in a hurry you could remove the actuator (you will have to do that anyway) and pop the cover off and see what type of motor it uses. You mentioned that you are having rear gate locking issues... if it works intermittently or makes funny noises when it works you may have another issue with your actuator (ie. broken gear, shaft...etc.) Lots of plastic parts in there. That actuator appears to be around $150 so if it is the motor it would be worth just changing that for around $8. Let us know what you find out and how it works out for you.

[@matthewcooper1973]

Unfortunately, the rear gate actuator failed in the lock position with the gate closed so access to the actuator assembly is not available. Any ideas on how to access the locking mechanism? Other than breaking open the interior panel.

[@helpinguonline]

From what I understand the dealer will replace the lock/latch assembly by removing the rear door lower trim panel. I always look for the easiest way and think past what most would do. Is it possible you could do something like this? See video below. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4aoZ3aegtqNp68

[@matthewcooper1973]

The rear window doesn't retract like it does in the sequoia and 4runner so access to the cable isn't feasible. Removing the interior panels from inside the car seems to be the best option. The replacement actuator arrives tomorrow so I will let you know how it goes.

[@helpinguonline]

Look forward to hearing how it goes. Wishing you the best!

[@robjohnson1202]

I replaced my driver door actuator and everything works again, however, the key now does not lock/unlock the door itself (it did before I switched the actuators). Did you encounter this problem? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[@helpinguonline]

When you put your key in the door lock does it turn the lock? If it does turn the lock but your car door is not locking or unlocking it is probably because you forgot to hook up the downrod from the key lock to the actuator. If you are unable to turn the key lock then something must be jammed and or improperly hooked up.

[@robjohnson1202]

@@helpinguonline after looking at the old actuator, i noticed that there is a place, at the top, for the lock cylinder to fit into. Its a bit of a pain to get the handle rod inserted then try to guide the lock cylinder into place, all blind. After several attempts all is working as it should. Thanks for the reply.

[@Genesis-rj1tl]

Anyone know why my door locks and unlocks but my door won’t open from the outside but it opens from the inside