Driver's door lock works sporadically

[bfg9k]

'98 Legacy L wagon... The driver's side door lock works sporadically with the power locks. The other 3 & the trunk lock/unlock fine, and the windows are all fine. I suspect I may have a failing lock solenoid and that the wires are ok.

 

I pulled the door panel yesterday during lunch and found that the solenoid is hidden behind a piece of sheet metal :-\. Since this was in my parking lot at work I didn't feel like pulling a lot of bolts to get it out.

 

So: what's the removal process for this part? I will double-check the voltage at it once it's pulled. Anyone know what the going rate for the lock solenoid is?

 

Thanks!!

 

On edit: dealer wants $108 for the part, argh.

[1 Lucky Texan]

'98 Legacy L wagon... The driver's side door lock works sporadically with the power locks. The other 3 & the trunk lock/unlock fine, and the windows are all fine. I suspect I may have a failing lock solenoid and that the wires are ok.

 

I pulled the door panel yesterday during lunch and found that the solenoid is hidden behind a piece of sheet metal :-\. Since this was in my parking lot at work I didn't feel like pulling a lot of bolts to get it out.

 

So: what's the removal process for this part? I will double-check the voltage at it once it's pulled. Anyone know what the going rate for the lock solenoid is?

 

Thanks!!

 

On edit: dealer wants $108 for the part, argh.

 

I'd make sure it isn't just an adjustment issue of some kind. i once had to LOOSEN an adjustment on the rear gate of a Colt Vista wagon. It would lock, and load up a long metal rod and spring back when the solenoid released! Probably not directly related to your issue, but try comparing it's operation the the working door. maybe something is a little worn or loose?

 

I dunno

 

Carl

[bfg9k]

I'd make sure it isn't just an adjustment issue of some kind. i once had to LOOSEN an adjustment on the rear gate of a Colt Vista wagon. It would lock, and load up a long metal rod and spring back when the solenoid released! Probably not directly related to your issue, but try comparing it's operation the the working door. maybe something is a little worn or loose?

 

Well, when the lock is refusing to work there's no sound from the door at all, that is you can't hear the lock trying to move. I don't think anything's jammed and the rods & hinges looked good yesterday.

[1 Lucky Texan]

Well, when the lock is refusing to work there's no sound from the door at all, that is you can't hear the lock trying to move. I don't think anything's jammed and the rods & hinges looked good yesterday.

 

I would try to find any ground connections and clean/reconnect them really well. Same for any wire harness connections. If it is still intermmettent, someone will need to wiggle/exercise the wiring and possibly tap on the solenoid to pinpoint the problem.

 

carl

[hklaine]

Someone posted this. Perhaps helpful - ?

http://www.rweddysolutions.com/Subaru96fix

-Heikki

[bfg9k]

Someone posted this. Perhaps helpful - ?

http://www.rweddysolutions.com/Subaru96fix

-Heikki

 

Thanks for all the help everyone. Hklaine, that web site is perfect!

[hklaine]

Thanks for all the help everyone. Hklaine, that web site is perfect!

 

Good to hear. Thanks to the original creator of that page!

 

I need to do that fix this weekend. My locks are on the fritz at the moment.

 

-Heikki