Driver Lock issue (odd)

[1997LT1]

First would like to say hello to everybody on the forum!

Vehicle specs are 2000 explorer, 4.0 v6 OHV. 4x4 XLS 4dr

I am having trouble with my driver side door lock. When pressing remote it does not lock, but locks all 3 other doors. I cannot lock it with a key also. As you can see this is important, because I dont want to be robbed.

I took the door panel off and looked around. I am suspecting the lock actuation mechanism, but would that keep my key from turning to lock on door to lock position? Anybody have any of these issues?

 

[bluestream1]

Does it lock using the switch by the rear hatch?

 

[1997LT1]

Does it lock using the switch by the rear hatch?

I just went out and tried that, and it did not lock it. All the switches inside will lock the 3 other doors, but the driver door lock does not even twitch.

 

[bluestream1]

Do a search for "door locks" and you should find all you need to fix that problem

 

[pindlepiper]

Mine was going the exact same thing a few months back. I could stick my key in and turn it both ways and it would not lock or unlock my explorer. The switch would unlock/lock all the doors except the drivers. I replaced the door lock actuator and had to hook the key lock back to it and all works great now. Sad thing is i have replaced it twice within three years.:thumbdwn:

 

[1997LT1]

Do a search for "door locks" and you should find all you need to fix that problem

I searched earlier a bit for door locks and got a few threads pertaining to a spring or latch issue. I am not thinking I have a latch issue, but never say never. Are there any threads that stick in particular?

Mine was going the exact same thing a few months back. I could stick my key in and turn it both ways and it would not lock or unlock my explorer. The switch would unlock/lock all the doors except the drivers. I replaced the door lock actuator and had to hook the key lock back to it and all works great now. Sad thing is i have replaced it twice within three years.:thumbdwn:

Do you know a good place to get an actuator? I noticed you said you could turn the key both ways. I cannot turn my key back towards locked or it feels like I could break the key off into the keyhole. It feels jammed or blocked almost. I would think if the actuator would fail it would let it move either way, but I may be wrong.?

 

[1997LT1]

After driving around with no panel on the door today, I went to unlock door, only to notice that the lock had engaged, and locked with the other 3 doors. So whatever it is, is only intermittent at this point. I also went out and locked the door with the key also. Does this sound like an actuator that could be fading out?