1994 Q45 Driver Door Lock Actuator

[Dolce'sQ45]

Hi,Does anyone know how to replace the door lock actuator for a 1994 Q45? I have removed the door trim, and discovered the actuator is located behind the painted door panel. On the painted door panel, there is a hole, from which you can shine a light into it and view the actuator behind the panel. Am I supposed to fix the actuator from that location, or do I need to now go in and remove the painted door panel? I called the dealer, and the guy at the parts counter said that the door panel is welded shut, so that I would not be able to get into Any advice would be helpful. I'm trying to fix this while my husband is at work, and now I'm stuck in the middle of my project.

SOS in Phoenix,Dolce Porter

[3Q Jay]

it can certainly be done-and i have big hands.....

first off welcome to NICO, and kudos for doing this pre-emptively instead of after failure.

try removing the lock mechanism (3 screws from strike area--easily accessible with door open). there are some linkages inside the door that you will have to unsnap. the clips remain captive, but you can slide the ends of the rods out. there is also an electrical connector on the actuator.

i assume you have both parts (lock mechanism and actuator) on hand?