Door Sensor Replacement (aka Courtesy Lamp Switch) (3rd Gen Toyota 4Runner)

[@kenk3102]

...very nice video Tim....thanks for posting.....on both of my 4Runners, I have a hidden key tied to the frame with zip-ties in an area that is not obvious....if you lock yourself out only once, the effort will be worth it... 🙂

[@TimmyTheToolman]

Yeah, a hide-a-key is a smart idea.

[@guitar14]

I had this exact same issue on my 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser. I discovered the issue when I inadvertently locked myself out by opening and closing the door with the broken sensor. Another great video Tim. Thank you.

[@TimmyTheToolman]

Yep, I knew that scenario of getting locked out would eventually happen to me if I didn't replace the sensors. I'm glad you like the video and you're welcome.

[@Cmc-365]

Thanks for this. I'm hoping one day you guys do a full ac compressor video

[@TimmyTheToolman]

It will most likely happen one day.

[@Wolfgang51501986]

Great video Timmy! Hey man, you got an Amazon affiliate link for those mechanics pajamas?

[@TimmyTheToolman]

I'll see if I can find a link to my fleece mechanic pajamas.

[@DaxWagner73]

A few days ago I did this exact repair. My front passenger sensor plastic broke on my '99 SR5.

[@cal48koho]

Tim, I had a similar problem in my 3rd gen. This complexity was annoying so I disabled the security system and popped in the new switch.

[@TimmyTheToolman]

Did you re-enable the alarm system after replacing the switch?

[@AuskeFlapTrap]

I fixed mine by unplugging it. It was cheap and I don't have to worry about the light staying on

[@TimmyTheToolman]

That's definitely one way to solve the problem. The sensors aren't expensive, so I chose to replace them.

[@samh6761]

I'm comfortable using my drill with plastic, but only on the lowest torque setting.

[@TimmyTheToolman]

I'll only use the drill to remove but not to tighten. That plastic strips so easily.

[@samh6761]

@@TimmyTheToolman Ah I didn't realize the threads were plastic as well. I agree, in that case I wouldn't risk stripping the threads with a drill.

[@jackwalsh1468]

Timmy, I'm in the East Bay. I have 2016 4Runner with Total Chaos lower control arms. I believe the lower ball joints need replacement. Would you be open to checking out the entire front end.tp see if anything needs replacement. Perhaps my vehicle could be in future episodes of your videos. I sent you an email. Cheers, Mate.

[@TimmyTheToolman]

I've got too much on my plate right now so I'm taking on anything new for the time being. But, thanks for reaching out to us.

[@jackwalsh1468]

@@TimmyTheToolman No worries and thank you.

[@christophergoodwin6846]

Never enough timmy the toolman how to videos 💯. Thank you for your service Timmy 🫡.

[@TimmyTheToolman]

Thanks Chris!

[@zenjon7892]

Man, mine caused a parasitic draw and ran down my battery a few times. It also didn't let me know when I left my lights on... It was $40 well spent!

[@TimmyTheToolman]

@@zenjon7892 Yep, money well spent.

[@21jimmyo]

Hmmm, something I should check, I'm paranoid, I always roll down the window when I leave it running in the driveway. I do this with all my cars even though I've never been locked out of a car.

[@TimmyTheToolman]

Once it's running, the doors shouldn't lock on you.

[@21jimmyo]

@@TimmyTheToolman LOL...I know but I'm paranoid about it.

[@jonathanperry3792]

Tim is it just a bad earth .

[@TimmyTheToolman]

Are you asking if it was just a bad ground? I think that's what you're asking. No would be the answer because new switches fixed the issue. I'm guessing the switch receives it's ground from the mounting bolt and the bolt for both switches was tight and the contact area was clean.

[@michaelstern934]

Dont ever leave the keys in the car

[@TimmyTheToolman]

@michaelstern934 It happens. Our minds aren't perfect. Just think how common it is that people misplace things, and you'll realize your solution to the problem isn't foolproof.