Hello,

I have a problem with the drivers door lock, in that the micro switch that detects if the door is shut, does not work all the time, especially in hot weather. This means that the interior light comes on whist driving and that the alarm cannot be set when leaving the car.

I have removed the lock assembly (Broken most of the door panel clips) and can see the micro switch wires and hear the micro switch clicking when the door catch is moved towards the closed position.

It it possible to replace the micro switch in the door catch assembly and where can I buy one?

many thanks,

Graham

 

Graham, before replacing the switch, try squirting the switch really good with some WD-40. I bet you will find that it will clear up your problem. This is a common problem with Ford Expeditions and the WD-40 does the trick almost every time.

 

geharvey, I would look on ebay for a used door lock actuator, as in, buy the whole unit and replace it. I would also buy a door panel removal tool and be careful.

I have some experience with removing the door panels on the X and I took some pics of my panels and broken door panel clips. In repairing them I used an acrylic epoxy mix (blue) and I tried to rebuild the supports.

I took a bunch of pics and I've been waiting for the perfect thread to open up

Front door panel - Notice the broken plastic clips along the lower right and then one at lower left:


Epoxy fix:








This one is basically un-repairable unless you really get into it.


The blue glue is temporary but should last a couple years until my door panels start shaking. When I go to lunch with guys from work, I tell them NOT to slam my doors. This is not a 79' Camero with big heavy doors that might not shut.

I did what I could to fix the doors and upgraded the 4 door speakers to Polk Audio. Sorry for the blurry pictures.

 

Hello again,

Thank you very much for the information.

I have used the WD-40 trick before on this lock about 2 years ago and it did work very well. I did try it again but, until I took the lock out of the car, I did not know where the switch was located in the assembly and where to concentrate the jet of spray.

I was hoping that the catch assemby would come apart. I have removed the three screws and have unclipped the plastic clips, but it shows no sign of opening. The mcro switch is probably a commercially available item (I work in the electronics industry) so I I am sure I could replace it. I think the best couse of action is to buy a replacement from ebay and then I can experiment with the old one.

Thank you also for the details of the door panel. It looks like I need to buy plenty of glue. After closer inspection, all of the clips are still in the door and the posts on the panel are all brocken.

Graham.