Replacing / Removing 2003 Echo Door Actuator

[dukebox]

Hi there,

The front passenger door actuator in my mothers 2003 Toyota Echo has stopped working. I've run a multimeter across and know it's blown.

I've managed to buy a replacement actuator and have taken off the door skin. I can see the actuator and rods and have unplugged it - however I can't work out how to remove the old actuator from inside the door panel.

I've searched online and can't find a thing. Some people have advised that I need to remove the actual locking mechanism and window rail (which are held with those weird star shape screws) however I'm keen to find some pictures or a guide which demonstrates how to do it.

If you have had experience doing this, or know of a online guide, could you please point me in the right direction.

Cheers

[Guest azn310]

Hi Dukebox,

I've recently ran into the same situation as well. While there are no specific Echo actuator replacement guides online, I have found many guides for other cars within the Toyota and Lexus brands. For example: http://www.rav4world.com/forums/96-4-3-general/82750-power-door-lock-actuator-repair-fix-your-door-locks-free.html

These are pretty good I think since the door lock mechanism are pretty much the same. You definitely needs to remove the 3 star-shape screws to remove the whole actuator. Interesting thing though, most people say that it is the motor inside the actuator that needs replacing. Good luck finding that motor in Australia lol

The star-shape screw you mentioned is Torx type. If you don't like purchasing a Torx set, you can try using Hex key, but be very careful not to damage the screws (otherwise you may round it up).

May I ask how did you test the actuator with multimeter ? (I'm more mechanically minded than electronics) And where did you find the replacements?

Cheers

J