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Ford Mustang and Ford Mustang GT 1994-2004: How to Replace Door Lock Actuator

Is the power door lock in your Ford Mustang not working as it should? Find out how to remove and replace it here.

By Jerry Perez - September 23, 2015
Contributors: 1AAuto.com

This article applies to the Ford Mustang and Ford Mustang GT (1994-2004).

Your Ford Mustang's door lock actuator allows the door lock to move up and down in order to lock or unlock your car. The door lock actuator is powered by a motor and is controlled by the door lock switch, which the driver operates as desired. As with most other high-wear parts in your Mustang, the door lock actuator is prone to stop working at some point and it will make your power door locks useless. Follow this step-by-step guide to remove and replace your door lock actuator in your Mustang.

Materials Needed

  • Flat head and Phillips screwdriver
  • 8mm socket and ratchet wrench
  • T27 Torx driver

Step 1 – Disconnect battery

Before commencing any work, it is important to disconnect the negative (black) battery terminal first. Use the 8mm socket and wrench to undo the terminal; leave it disconnected until completion of the repair.

Figure 1. Disconnect negative battery terminal.

Step 2 – Remove door panel

In order to access the actuator to replace it, you must first remove the door panel and other items. Follow these steps to get it done:

  • Use the flat head screwdriver to pop out the body clips around the perimeter of the door.
  • Use the flat head screwdriver to wedge and pop out the door handle panel.
  • Disconnect the power door lock/windows wiring harness.
  • Use the flat head screwdriver to pop out the side mirror trim cover.
  • Carefully wiggle the door panel off.
  • Carefully remove the water shield.
  • Figure 2. Pop out body clips.
  • Figure 3. Remove door handle trim piece.

Step 3 – Remove old door lock actuator

With the door panel and water shield out of the way, it is time to remove the old actuator to make room for the new one. Follow these steps to do so:

  • Look inside the door panel and locate the yellow tab that holds the door lock rod.
  • Pop the yellow tab (hinges).
  • Remove the three Torx bolts located on the side of the door.
  • Grab the actuator and pull it out of the door panel.
  • Separate the actuator from hardware by simply unsnapping it with your hands. (Might require a little force.)
  • Figure 4. Undo the three Torx bolts.
  • Figure 5. Separate door lock actuator (circled) from mounting hardware.

Step 4 – Install new door lock actuator

  • Mount the new actuator on the mounting hardware.
  • Position and tighten down the three Torx bolts.
  • Reattach the yellow tab that holds the door lock rod.
  • Replace the water shield.
  • Position the door panel and attach body clips.
  • Connect the power door lock/window wiring harness.
  • Re-install the door handle and side mirror covers.
  • Reconnect the battery.

Pro Tip

It's a good idea to reconnect the battery and test the new actuator before the door panel is mounted, just in case there are adjustments needed to be made.

Featured Video: How to Install/Replace Power Door Lock Actuator

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