99 sport driver door lock issue...

[capitalking]

Over the course of the past 6-7mo, my drivers door would open whilst driving. sometimes bumpy roads, excessive vibration seemed to do it. other occasions, it would not close on the first try. just re-open. now... the bloody thing wont unlock properly. if i fight it for a bit, maybe, just maybe it'll open, other times i have to open from the inside handle. my best, mildly-educated guess would be the power lock actuator. didn't want to just go and replace without a 2nd (or 3rd 4th or 5th) opinion though. thanks!

 

[koda2000]

sounds more like a worn latch or lack of lube problem, but if it is related to the lock actuator.. maybe a broken wire in the door jam. when you say the door opens, do you mean opens or unlocks?

 

[capitalking]

both...it opens and unlocks at the same time. but hard.

 

[koda2000]

that's weird. i can see either one (unlocking or opening) happening with severely worn parts or a shorted wire, but not both at the same time. i'd start with replacing the latch mechanism.

 

[swshawaii]

Had a similar problem after buying my ST used at 46K. Passenger door flew open on a right off ramp going over 45 MPH.

Important the latch mechanism is not sticking. Lubricate with lithium spray and check the plastic striker bushings for wear.

Unlikely the door striker had moved but I loosened it anyway with a T-50 Torx socket, realigned, and torqued to 30 ft/lbs.