About Door Actuators

Door actuators are part of the power locking mechanism.

A door actuator is an electromechanical device commonly found in automatic or power door locks of automobiles. The other basic components that work in conjunction with the actuator in operating the door locking mechanism are switches, wiring and a circuit breaker.

Types

The actuator can be a mechanical solenoid or an electrical motor. Both actuators give linear movement to activate the locking device.

Location

Cars fitted with automatic door locks have a power door lock actuator in each of the car's doors. The actuator is most often situated below the door latch of the vehicle. Sometimes the actuator is built as part of the door latch.

Function

A control switch connected to the power source of the vehicle by means of the circuit breaker, sends voltage to the actuator. Once the actuator is given power, this excites an electrical coil and creates electromagnetism which provides the force to activate the door latch. The actuator is linked to the locking mechanism by means of rods. In actuators with an electric motor, a set of gears move a control rod that locks or unlocks the door.

References

• 2 Car Pros: How Power Door Lock Works
• DIY Power Door Lock Repair: Power Door Lock Actuator