How Door Lock Actuator Works

In this edition of howstuffworks we ll learn just what s inside your door that ma kes it unlock we ll take apart the actuator that does the work and then we ll learn how the lock can be forced open.

How door lock actuator works.

Then use your test light or digital meter to check for power and ground at the connector when you operate the lock unlock switch. But first let s see how the car keeps all its signals straight. On a vehicle with electric locks the process is a bit different. The motor reverses direction so that when you press the switch to unlock the doors the lock moves in one direction.

To the coil of the respective relay. Attach the plastic door lock actuator back onto the. It mimics your motions when you pull the knob up or push it down. The power door lock actuator is a pretty straightforward device.

Then when you press the switch to lock the doors the lock moves in the opposite direction. This system is quite simple. Inside the power door lock actuator. Door locks actuators reverse polarity positive switch trigger type d relay wiring diagram both motor legs rest at ground at the relays.

Unplug the door lock actuator electrical connector. You should see the voltage polarity toggle with each switch activation. Door lock actuators are an electronic component found on vehicles equipped with power door locks. For this reason the whole door lock assembly is often called door lock actuator.

In many cars the door lock actuator is built with the latch mechanism into one assembly in the photo. They are the electronically controlled actuators in every single door that are responsible for locking and unlocking the power door locks when the switches are pressed. Door lock systems operate the actuator by toggling positive negative voltage to the actuator. Reinstalling the door lock actuator step 1.

The door lock actuator is an electric actuator that operates the door latch mechanism in cars with power door locks. Part 5 of 6. To lock or unlock the vehicle polarity is changed on one motor leg via a positive pulse from a switch alarm keyless entry etc. Clean and reconnect the actuator.

Reinstall the plastic cover and replace the assembly. Spray electrical cleaner onto the black electrical connector. A door lock actuator is basically a reversible motor or a solenoid on some vehicles with gears that operate the door lock.