2000 Ford Explorer, door locks work intermittently

Door control, meaning a key or the key pad? If it is the keypad or FOB, then your problem is the lock actuator. Replace the door latch inside the door. If you have problems with the key...There are rods and/or cables that release the lock. On these there are plastic clips that hold the rods/cables to the latch and the door handles and key lock cylinder. If one breaks it will usually work. But if two break, you get the problem you have now. Too much slop. Your best bet to find them is at a salvage yard.

Not sure if lock has solenoid or electric motor, but either way, can you hear clicks or any prominent sounds from the door whilst trying to unlock it? you may need to put your ear on the door, if no sound, then wiring needs to be checked, then motor or solenoid, if you do hear similar sounds to the other door then the mechanical part of the lock mechanism has failed and may require a kit or replacement.

Lubricate all servos ,, use button inside car a few times , replace batery on FOB .

FORD KEY PADS

• Enter permanent factory code
  
• Press the 1/2 button within 5 seconds to enter programming mode
  
• Within 5 seconds enter new code, doors will lock, unlock to verify code, this erases previous codes remotes will also need to be programmed. (MAYBE)
  

KEY PADS/REMOTES

• Insert key, turn ignition off-to- on eight times in succession, ending with key in on position doors will lock, unlock to verify in programming mode
  
• Press any button on new remote, doors will lock, unlock to verify
  
• Do the previous step with the second remote, doors will lock unlock to verify.
  
• Turn ignition off. Doors will again lock, unlock to verify.
  

NOTE-Some vehicles use 5 turns of the key instead of 8

FORD KEY PADS

• Enter permanent factory code
  
• Press the 1/2 button within 5 seconds to enter programming mode
  
• Within 5 seconds enter new code, doors will lock, unlock to verify code, this erases previous codes remotes will also need to be programmed.
  

FORD KEY PADS/REMOTES

• Insert key, turn ignition off-to- on eight times in succession, ending with key in on position doors will lock, unlock to verify in programming mode
  
• Press any button on new remote, doors will lock, unlock to verify
  
• Do the previous step with the second remote, doors will lock unlock to verify.
  
• Turn ignition off. Doors will again lock, unlock to verify.
  

NOTE-I found that some Explorer/Mountaineers enter program mode after 5 times-not 8.

Here is the link for further info.


http://www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_reprogram_key_remote_fob.htm


Your factory code is on a card in the owners manual. If that is lost, access the control module in the cargo area behind the left cover panel.

You MIGHT be able to see the code printed on it, or you might need to pull it out in order to see it.

You must reset your remote control in order for the lock/unlock to work properly.

To reset remote you would:
1)Insert Key in Ignition Turn to Position 1(Don't Start the Engine) for about 5 seconds
2)Turn Key Off and HOLD the LOCK button on Remote while pressing the UNLOCK 3 TIMES
3)Release both lock and unlock buttons you are holding
4)All doors should automatically unlock

And exit the door and lock with the Remote.

you will need to replace the door lock motor

the door lock actuator is defective, they get really hard to move when they go bad, that is why the difficulty with the key.

many vehicles can be programmed by using the internal lock switch to set user preferences...find user manual to see if its available on your vehicle

Unfortunately, This is a very common problem with Ford Explorers! Ford replaces the locks when it encounters this issue. I managed to unseize my passanger door and tailgate lock, but the drivers door lock is broken beyond repair. You can purchase new remotes for your explorer and program them very easily. Just google ford key fobs...