Door will unlock but not lock
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
Door will unlock but not lock
Hello all, I’ve been a lurker for years and have owned a couple C4s, a 2000 c5, a 2011 grand sport and now most recently, a 2001 z06. It has a couple quirks I am working on sorting, although it only has 27k miles.
The drivers door will not lock electronically. The passenger door works fine for all functions. The drivers door will unlock electronically if locked manually, but refuses to lock either with the door switch or the fob. I have read tons about the door control module and am working on sourcing a reasonably priced unit. My question is does this function normally make a noise when it stops working?
When I unlock both doors, there is a typical sound of the actuators moving the lock and physical plastic lock lever. When I lock both doors, only the passenger side actually does something, but the drivers door makes all the same noises. It almost sounds like everything is working electronic wise but there is a physical linkage missing? Just trying to get some opinions before spending ~$100 on a control module. Thank you.
The drivers door will not lock electronically. The passenger door works fine for all functions. The drivers door will unlock electronically if locked manually, but refuses to lock either with the door switch or the fob. I have read tons about the door control module and am working on sourcing a reasonably priced unit. My question is does this function normally make a noise when it stops working?
When I unlock both doors, there is a typical sound of the actuators moving the lock and physical plastic lock lever. When I lock both doors, only the passenger side actually does something, but the drivers door makes all the same noises. It almost sounds like everything is working electronic wise but there is a physical linkage missing? Just trying to get some opinions before spending ~$100 on a control module. Thank you.
Race Director
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 12,331
Likes: 139
what you hear is the actuator working the lever for your locking mechanism. A mechamical noise. Per say the actuator does not make any noise. It just pulls and pushes your mechanism thought the attachment. If you're not hearing a noise 3 things could be happening. Your automatic door panel button isn't working (button gone bad or bad connection). Your actuator isn't working(the motor is burnt out or bad connection) or the mechanism that holds the door lock lever either slipped out or broke.
good luck...worked on autoglass for years and door lock actuators tend to break.
good luck...worked on autoglass for years and door lock actuators tend to break.
Last edited by Vetteman Jack; Jul 14, 2022 at 02:05 AM.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
Ok, that does make sense. But I am hearing what sounds like the same noise from both doors, but only one is functioning. From what I have seen online, if one door stops functioning, it’s also stops making noise for the most part.
Last edited by Vetteman Jack; Jul 14, 2022 at 02:05 AM.
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2021
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I have the same issue. Will your door lock using the key when you turn it to the right? If so, I think your physical mechanism is probably ok.
There are two relays (one locks, one unlocks) on the control module that can be replaced if you're good with a soldering iron. I have not yet removed my door panel and investigated to confirm my suspicions.
I was only able to locate the relays on eBay- https://www.ebay.com/itm/401565712157 but if you search the forum here there are other replacement relays people have used.
Rock Auto has new modules for about $500 if I remember right.
There are two relays (one locks, one unlocks) on the control module that can be replaced if you're good with a soldering iron. I have not yet removed my door panel and investigated to confirm my suspicions.
I was only able to locate the relays on eBay- https://www.ebay.com/itm/401565712157 but if you search the forum here there are other replacement relays people have used.
Rock Auto has new modules for about $500 if I remember right.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
I have the same issue. Will your door lock using the key when you turn it to the right? If so, I think your physical mechanism is probably ok.
There are two relays (one locks, one unlocks) on the control module that can be replaced if you're good with a soldering iron. I have not yet removed my door panel and investigated to confirm my suspicions.
I was only able to locate the relays on eBay- https://www.ebay.com/itm/401565712157 but if you search the forum here there are other replacement relays people have used.
Rock Auto has new modules for about $500 if I remember right.
There are two relays (one locks, one unlocks) on the control module that can be replaced if you're good with a soldering iron. I have not yet removed my door panel and investigated to confirm my suspicions.
I was only able to locate the relays on eBay- https://www.ebay.com/itm/401565712157 but if you search the forum here there are other replacement relays people have used.
Rock Auto has new modules for about $500 if I remember right.
Yes, the door locks when turning the key, it’s how I’ve been locking the car. There are a few listings for used control modules for ~$75 that I’m probably going to go with rather than fixing the existing one.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2021
Posts: 8,342
Likes: 489
From: WI
If you have basic soldering skills, you can swap the relay that's about $6. Changing out the entire dcm with another used one of course may just buy you a little time before those relays fail the same way.
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2021
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EDIT: Just found this site offers door lock module repair for under $70: https://c5led.com/prices/
https://c5led.com/door-lock-module-removal/
Last edited by Dads2kconvertible; Jul 14, 2022 at 09:52 PM.
Melting Slicks
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Racer
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From: MN
@roegs Did you have any fasteners on hand in case you broke one when removing or replacing the door panel? If so, do you know the part number?
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
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From: Connecticut
On my 2003 C5, I have the opposite problem. My driver's door locks when I put the car in drive, but does not unlock the door when the key comes out. I can open the door with the key. Same solution??
Thanks
Thanks
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2021
Posts: 2,555
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There is a relay to lock and another to unlock. Since your lock works mechanically, try all of the electrical methods you have (key fob, door switch, etc.) If it does not work electrically it's probably the relay.