1996 Chevrolet Express 2500 Sliding Door Lock Actuator Replacement Cost

The sliding door lock actuator does not have a replacement interval and is not part of routine maintenance. The actuator should last the lifetime of the vehicle. Unfortunately, some actuators do fail prematurely. It is not unheard of for more than one actuator on a vehicle to go bad around the same time.

Diagnosis depends on the year, make, and model of the vehicle. If the locking system is controlled by a Body Control Module, a technician will note whether only the sliding door actuator is showing symptoms, or if all of the locks are faulty. If all of the locks are acting the same - failing to lock/unlock, unlocking intermittently, etc. - the BCM may be at fault. The technician will use a scan tool to read data from the BCM. On some older models with a separate lock controller, a software update may be required. If the BCM/controller is functioning properly, the technician will remove the switch inside the vehicle (if so equipped) and test it with a multimeter to make sure it is operating. If the switch has power and is operational, the technician will use the multimeter to check for voltage at the actuator. If the actuator has power but does not function, or if it functions partially, it will need to be replaced.

To replace a sliding door lock actuator, a technician will need to open the door and remove the interior trim panel. Some electrical components mounted to the inner door shell may need to be taken out for access. The lock actuator (or the latch assembly in some cases) is disconnected from its linkage and electrical connector. The retaining fasteners are unscrewed and the actuator or latch is removed and a new one installed. The inner door shell may include a separate mounting panel to which the motor, actuators, cables, window regulator, and other components are attached. This panel may need to be removed also. Once the lock actuator is accessible, the technician will unplug the it from the wiring harness, detach the linkage, and remove the fasteners holding it in place. The new actuator is mounted and attached, and all of the surrounding components are restored.. The technician will run the door through a relearning procedure and finish reassembly.

RepairPal recommends that an OEM replacement part be installed in place of a failed sliding door lock actuator. Many aftermarket actuators have a high failure rate which will result in residual costs.

A failing lock actuator can be a symptom of a larger issue with the central locking system, including problems with the BCM or multiple actuators. A fault with the sliding door actuator can cause problems with all of the actuators and presents a safety hazard.

Due to the complexity of a power sliding door system, replacement of the door lock actuator on most vans should be left to a qualified technician at a trusted repair shop. This repair can be expensive, but more damage - and cost - can be incurred if the repair is not completed properly.