In order to access this annoying door lock switch that is no longer working, we need to pull off the door panel. Take a close look all over the door and search out any type of screws that might be holding the door panel in place. I have noticed a lot of the time that these act as a secondary type of securement to the door. Push-pins are typically the way the door panels are held on and they always break. So be ready to hit the parts store for replacements. Alright let’s get this little project started, and gather up the tools and parts we need.

TOOLS

PARTS

Removing the Door Panel

On this 2005 Lincoln Navigator driver door I have located all the screws that need to be removed in order to get this door panel off and gain access to the wiring and the switch. There are only 5 screws but you have to make sure to look everywhere to ensure that you find them all.

After removing all the screws that are securing the door panel to the vehicle we need to figure out how this door panel comes off. If you slightly pull out from one of the lower corners and you don’t get any movement...STOP!! it could be like this door panel and have these plastic hooks. These are what hold the door panel tight to the door instead of using the push pins that you end up breaking and replacing.

Crap, I exposed the inside of the door how embarrassing and a little ahead of schedule, but that is ok. In order to get enough movement in the door panel I have to remove the gray plastic piece around the interior door door handle. Just be really careful and gently pry with your fingers. Try not to use any type of screw drivers as this could scratch or gouge the plastic.

With steady even pressure from the bottom of the door, lift up on the door panel. While lifting, apply pressure against the door panel to help unhook the plastic hooks from the door

Then after your feel the hooks release and gently pull the door panel away. Watch out for the door lock pin, that sticks up through the door panel. You know the little rod that goes up and down, indicating if the door is locked or not. 😉

With the door panel away from the door we can see the wiring harness for the windows, door locks, speakers, and possible any lights that might be built into the door. I have a little speaker up on the pillar of the door so this added an additional plug. So it looks like I have 5 plugs that need to be unhooked so I can pull the door panel away and gain access to the switch in order to remove it.

After completely removing the door panel from the door, place it on the drivers seat or someplace where it won’t get scratched or damaged. Most of these style switches pop out really easy. It’s often getting to them that takes the most time and results in the most curse words being tossed around. Now, locate the door lock switch and take a look at how it is held in place. This one can be removed by simply squeezing on the sides of the switch and pushing it out.

Now simply push the new switch back into place until you hear a click. There you are done. YAHOO....Wait....we still have to put all this back together without breaking anything. It was a small miracle that we got it apart without an casualties, now if we can get it all back together, without a single breakage of any component....that puts a big W in the Win column.

Before you go slapping this door panel back into place. Hold it up and plug in the new switch and make sure it works first. On a rare occasion you can get a faulty part and it would totally stink to have the door put all back together and realize the switch doesn’t work. If the switch does indeed work, let’s get this door put back together.

Lining up all the plastic hook pieces and inserting the door lock pin though the door panel, use both hands and possibly a knee to apply even pressure across the door panel to make sure all the hooks are seated in their slots. Then slide the door panel down, locking it into place. Re-install the plastic piece around the door handle, then all that is left is a few screws.

Last couple of screws and this DIY project is done. It took about 1/2 hr and that is with taking all the photos.

Well there you have it everyone, with a 1/2 hour of your time and a few simple tools you can maintain your sanity and all is right and true once again in your vehicle....Well that is until you need to replace a driver seat due to the leather tearing apart, but that is for another day.

Thanks for stopping in and checking out another of my DIY projects. I hope this gives you people that little boost of confidence you need to tackle a little project like this yourself. Instead of paying $100 to have someone else fix it.

Until next time...

_{Weku Post}