01 Sebring Power Door Lock:There is a loud squeaking/grinding noise when my doors power lock.

2001 CHRYSLER SEBRING
120,000 MILES
Avatar
STUTEW
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
(It's under the driver side panel). Is it the motor? Actuator? Can you tell me what part I need to replace? I've done a fair amount of car repairs*, but never one of these so just want some advice- thanks!

*Three hardest jobs: Dropped a tranny and changed a clutch; Changed a steering rack; Changed a strut.
Dec 23, 2011 at 7:41 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 34,306 POSTS
The supplier of the lock motors has been really making them cheaply for many years. The armature of the motor breaks free from the shaft and spins without moving the lock mechanism. This started with the (poorly) redesigned '96 minivans but those used small plastic lock assemblies with the motor and a gear package built in. I think you're going to find that lock motor is built into your latch assembly. In the minivans, the mechanical stop for the slide would also break and the slide would get stuck. I never autopsied a latch to see what fails inside them, but from your description, I'm pretty sure that's where you're going to find the problem.
Dec 23, 2011 at 8:45 AM
Avatar
STUTEW
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thanks! So you're saying that it's the "power lock MOTOR," correct? Wow, it's over $100 from the dealer, hope I can find an after market one!
Dec 23, 2011 at 10:48 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 34,306 POSTS
The lock motor for the minivans cost around 40 bucks. I'm pretty sure you're going to get the entire latch mechanism with the lock actuator built in.
Dec 23, 2011 at 11:20 PM