Replaced Driver Side Front Lock Actuator, Key lock no workee!

[aaronfro17]

Like the title says, I replaced the driver's side door lock actuator a few weeks ago. Just noticed yesterday that none of the keys to the vehicle will unlock that door (lift gate key lock still works). What do I need to do to remedy the situation? Re-key the lock? Re-program lock?

 

[aaronfro17]

*bump* Any help out there?

 

[skott]

Is this the first time you've tried unlocking the door by physically inserting the key into the door lock since you replaced the actuator?
There's no key reprogramming that needs to be done. The lock mechanism doesn't get replaced when you replace the actuator (which you know since you replaced it). I can't recall the specifics of how it all goes together, but my guess is when you installed the actuator, the part of the lock that goes into the actuator didn't align properly and when you turn the key it isn't activating the actuator.
You're gonna have to take it apart again to figure it out.

 

[Buckles]

Is this the first time you've tried unlocking the door by physically inserting the key into the door lock since you replaced the actuator?
There's no key reprogramming that needs to be done. The lock mechanism doesn't get replaced when you replace the actuator (which you know since you replaced it). I can't recall the specifics of how it all goes together, but my guess is when you installed the actuator, the part of the lock that goes into the actuator didn't align properly and when you turn the key it isn't activating the actuator.
You're gonna have to take it apart again to figure it out.

x2. This was the hardest part of the whole replacement for me. Aligning the key gear with the actuator took some maneuvering.

 

[aaronfro17]

Yes, this was the first time. Long story, could only find my valet key...then tested the others also. I'll give reassembly a shot.

 

[skott]

Aligning the lock mechanism with the actuator was a real PITA....until I found out you can easily remove the lock mechanism from the door which then makes alignment a breeze.
On the end of your door there is a rubber plug covering a torx bolt that holds in the lock (see hairy finger pointing at hole).

 

[djm023]

Additional Information on Aligning Lock Mechanism with Actuator

Anybody have a little more information on how to align the lock mechanism with the actuator?

I replaced the actuator motor this weekend and thought all was good until I went to unlock the door with the key. It just spins!

Thanks!

 

[skott]

djm023,
Look at my last picture and remove the torx bolt you see in there. This will allow you to remove the door handle lock. If you put things together correctly inside of the door, it should be pretty obvious what needs to be aligned with the door lock. It's been a while since I did mine, but I *think* the acutator motor (the part you replaced) essentially has a slot in it that should align with the key-lock mechanism (the part on the outside on the door handle). It's easy...take that torx bolt out and it will all make sense.

 

[djm023]

Thanks!

In skott I trust! Like you said, worked like a champ. Thanks for the follow-up.

 

[Parishollow]

Thank you for the insight!
I just bought a used 2014 and had this issue. I took off the plug, unscrewed the star bolt, lined up the rod properly and now it works like it should. When I looked in the hole I could see the rod was not level but pointing upward. I didn't have to take the door apart at all.
Thanks again.