Lock Actuator Summer Heat

[SDCORT]

I know this topic has been covered a thousand time already, but in searching the forum I have not found an answer to the following. My driver door lock does not work in the summer heat. How does replacing just the cheap motor solve this issue, which appears to be simple heat expansion and gears not grabbing ? If it were the motor, that lock / unlock failure would occur in all temperatures, right ?

Simply put- I can understand how replacing the motor will solve the issue under normal temperatures, but don't understand how replacing the motor will solve the problem caused by summer heat. If that makes any sense. Maybe someone can shed some light on this before I jump into it.

 

[maxemillion]

I have the exact same problem in my '03 cruiser with the added mystery of the nav screen not coming on in high temps. I've taken it in a couple different times and am always told the actuator has to be replaced as well as the nav screen but that seems like an easy answer since they're not paying for it! I've always thought it was an electrical issue with the heat expansion possibly causing a short somewhere but I don't have the experience to diagnose it any further. This dealership has 20% off Toyota parts till the 7th which is a pretty good deal. Gonna pick up an actuator and give it a go. https://www.toyotaofdecatur.com/service/service-specials/

 

[2001LC]

heat = resistance. As resistance increase, current (AMP) to motor is inhibited.

 

[Aracobuilt]

I had this issue with a LS400. If it was out in the sun the door lock would not. If it was parked in the shade or at night it would work. I replaced the motor and the problem was solved.

 

[LazarusTaxa]

No idea the reason, but I just replaced all my motors and all of the actuators work great now.

Also, you can get new actuators from impex for ~$50 ea...way cheaper than in the US

 

[excessive]

Just replace the entire actuator with AISIN / OEM and be done with it. If you cheap out and just replace the motors, you'll be back in there doing it again in less than 2 years. I know because that exactly what happened to me