Slide door power locks

[reel_story]

I have 2 windstars one 1998 and one 2001 with power sliding doors. Both of the sliding doors on the passenger side have problems with the power lock not always working. Is this a common problem? Is the fix to replace the lock solenoid? When you hit the lock/unlock button they move like they are trying to move up or down all the way but do not.

Thanks,
Ryan

[AshleyO]

I had this problem on my 99 windstar a few months ago. I took it to a body shop and they said that it was gonna be like $600 to fix. I don't have that kind of cash laying around so I opened up the door panel and started spraying WD-40 around and gently jiggling everything I could. It started working again and I haven't had anymore problems with it. I hope this helps. Only problem is Wd-40 stinks. You need to keep the windows down while you do this, and if possible for a few hours afterward.

[mark v]

Dont use WD-40 cause it will wash off and attract dust and make everything stick more. Use a silicone spray lubricant.

WD-40 is technology of the 70's.

[Flyingjackal456]

true mark, but usually water inside the door is generally a bad thing and it isn't supposed to happen. I am guilty of using WD-40 in my drivers door, but I didn't actually need to as the plastic coating on my latch needed to be cut off (shredding and jamming my driver door open).... Oh that was a fun 2 weeks.

[mark v]

WD-40 attracts dust since it is oily, Silicone spray lubricant dries dry. I also spray silicone spray lubricant on a rag and then wipe the rag on all door weatherstripping. This keeps the weatherstripping treated so it doesnt dry rot and also keeps them doors from freezing shut when it gets cold outside.

On my 1998 there are 4 contacts on the door jamb and 4 contacts on the door. Lightly sand off all corrosion and apply some Dielectric grease to the jamb and door contacts. This is usually the #1 reason the sliding doors malfunction due to poor electrical contact.


This will keep the contacts from getting corroded again and will keep the electrical contacts working. I have to do this every now and then cause somebody (cough, Wife) like to lean against the Jamb while loading the Van up.

[doowahderek]

This is very helpfull thanks! Gonna go try it out