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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace a door lock actuator?
Where can I get my door lock actuator replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my door lock actuator?
What happens if I don’t replace my door lock actuator?
What is a door lock actuator?
Can I replace my door lock actuator myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace a door lock actuator?

The average cost for a door lock actuator replacement is a total of about $125-$250. Of course, the exact replacement cost will depend on your vehicle type.

How long does it take to replace a Door lock actuator? It usually takes about 1-2 hours to have your door lock actuator replaced by a certified mechanic.

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my door lock actuator replacement and how much do those parts cost?

You can check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic for the exact parts for this job, but here’s what you’ll generally need:

Door lock actuator: The door lock actuator is the main part you’ll need here. The actuator itself engages and disengages your car door’s lock and usually consists of an electric motor, gears, linkage, and electrical components—all of which can make this a pretty pricey part to replace. Door lock actuators can cost $200 to $500.

Door latch cable: Depending on the reason your actuator stopped working, you may also need to replace a damaged or corroded door latch cable. This could cost $10 to $50 or more.

Door latch assembly: The door lock actuator is integrated with the door latch assembly, which helps your door stay securely shut. If the door latch assembly also needs to be replaced, expect to pay $50 to upwards of $350, depending on your vehicle.

We recommend purchasing parts at local auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA Auto Parts, as well as online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto. We also recommend reputable brands such as Dorman, ACDelco, and Standard Motor Products for door lock actuator components, ensuring reliable and smooth door locking and unlocking functionality for your vehicle. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

OEM parts can be more convenient since they’re designed to be the right fit for your vehicle. Aftermarket parts can sometimes be cheaper than OEM parts, but you’ll want to research their quality and compatibility with your own vehicle before making a decision.

Where can I buy parts for my door lock actuator replacement?

You can usually find replacement door lock actuators from auto parts stores like Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, and NAPA Auto Parts, or online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto. In some cases, you may be able to look up the exact type of actuator you’ll need through your manufacturer or by asking a dealership or repair shop.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my door lock actuator replaced?

Finding the right place to replace your door lock actuator can be difficult—especially if you don’t have a go-to repair shop nearby. Luckily, Jerry's

GarageGuard™

has the details on more than 2,500 vetted repair shops across the country.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ uses real hourly rates from local shops to give you fair price estimates for the services you need. You’ll also be able to learn about diagnostic fees (and whether they’ll cost you extra) and read reviews from real customers to ensure you’re choosing the best shop.

Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.

182 Reviews

United Alignment Tire Center

11251 Burbank Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$150

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (818) 980-8550

189 Reviews

Viking Auto Electric & Air

4521 Sunbeam Rd, Jacksonville, FL

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$110

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (904)-731-5065

133 Reviews

Sarik Auto Center

1305 36th St, Brooklyn, NY

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$100

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (718) 437-3294

150 Reviews

Pep Boys Auto Parts & Service - Lane Avenue #135

Lane Ave S , Jacksonville, FL

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$100

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (904) 695-7770

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my door lock actuator?

On paper, the main steps of a door lock actuator replacement are fairly simple:

Preparation: Inspecting your actuator will involve dealing with electrical components on your vehicle. For safety reasons, your mechanic will likely start your door lock actuator replacement by disconnecting your car battery first.

Remove the interior door panel: Next, your mechanic will remove the interior door panel on the door with the non-functioning power lock. They should be able to further inspect your car’s locking mechanisms and confirm whether the door lock actuator is the problem.

Remove and replace the actuator: If your mechanic confirms your actuator has failed, they’ll remove the bad door lock actuator, along with wiring or any other parts that may be damaged or corroded. Then, they’ll install a brand-new lock actuator.

What happens if I don’t replace my door lock actuator?

If you can still operate your car door locks manually, you might not be in a rush to fix a failed door lock actuator. That said, locking and unlocking your car door by hand can become quite the inconvenience—and you could leave your belongings inside vulnerable if you forget to do so.

What is a door lock actuator?

A door lock actuator is the electronic component inside your vehicle’s door that allows you to lock and unlock it with the simple touch of a button. When you press your door’s lock or unlock switch, a signal will be sent to the actuator that will then engage or release the lock.

Without a properly functioning door lock actuator, you won’t be able to keep your car and your belongings inside secure. As long as the door locks themselves work, you could still lock them manually—but this can quickly become an inconvenience.

When should I replace the door lock actuator on my car?

Here are some of the most common symptoms that could mean your car’s door lock actuator isn’t working anymore:

Your power door locks don’t work: One of the most obvious signs of a failed door lock actuator is that your door’s power locks no longer work—especially if your power lock controls on your key fob or a different door still function properly.

Strange noises when locking or unlocking the vehicle: Watch out for strange new noises when you press your vehicle’s lock or unlock buttons. It may sound like the actuator motor or gears are straining harder when activated. You might also hear buzzing or rattling.

How often should a door lock actuator be replaced?

Routine car maintenance doesn’t usually include replacing your door lock actuator—you don’t need to replace it until it’s not working properly.

A door lock actuator may be able to last the life of your vehicle, but it’s not uncommon for them to fail prematurely. When an actuator fails, it’s often because of:

Exposure to excess moisture, dirt, or debris

Overuse of power locks

Damage after a collision

Can I replace my door lock actuator myself?

Replacing a car’s power door lock actuator could potentially be a DIY project for those with moderate mechanical skills, but some may find this job too difficult to tackle alone. Since this replacement involves dealing with some of your vehicle’s electrical components, you’ll need to keep best safety practices in mind.

If you don’t feel comfortable replacing your door lock actuator yourself, a certified mechanic can take care of the job for you.

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FAQs

Is it expensive to replace an actuator?

It generally costs $100 to $250 to replace a car door lock actuator. That may not be as expensive as replacing your engine, but it’s not a small replacement cost, either. If your door lock actuator fails while your car is still covered under warranty, you might not have to worry about an out-of-pocket cost.

Researching mechanics in your area and general actuator costs for your particular vehicle can help you make sure you’re paying a fair repair cost when the time comes.

How do I know if my door lock actuator is broken?

If your car door locks aren’t working at all, it’s pretty easy to suspect your lock actuator might be broken. A couple of other signs of a failing lock actuator include power door locks that only work some of the time or activate without you pressing a button.

Can a door lock actuator be fixed?

Replacing a failed door lock actuator is a pretty straightforward fix for a certified mechanic. It mostly involves removing your interior door panel to access and remove the actuator.

Then, the new actuator can be installed so your power locks can function normally again.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.