When a door stops responding to the power lock switch and the actuator is the cause, the Dorman door lock actuator motor 746-158 replaces it. It is a non-integrated door lock actuator engineered as a direct replacement for the stock actuator. It fits many vehicles, among them the 1997-1998 Ford F-150, 1998-2001 Ford Explorer and 1997-1998 Ford F-250. See the "Vehicles it fits" section for the full list.
This Dorman lock actuator is listed as both a door lock actuator motor and a tailgate lock actuator motor. It is cataloged for the front left, front right, rear left and rear right positions. Its job is to drive the lock mechanism to lock and unlock on command from the vehicle's power lock system.
- Reliable replacement: put through extensive quality and safety performance testing.
- Perfect fit: built to install and operate like the original actuator on the listed applications.
- Safety compliant: subjected to simulated crash testing under government guidelines.
- Cycle-tested: repeated cycle testing in an actual vehicle door verifies effective use for years.
Signs a door lock actuator may need replacing include:
- one door that won't lock or unlock with the switch while the others still do
- locks that work only some of the time
- a buzzing or grinding noise from inside the door
A switch, fuse or wiring fault can produce similar symptoms, so diagnose the cause before replacing the actuator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Dorman 746-158 actuator do?
It is the motor-driven actuator that moves the lock mechanism to lock or unlock when the power lock system commands it. It is a non-integrated design, also listed as a tailgate lock actuator motor.
Does the 746-158 fit the 1997-1998 Ford F-150?
Yes. It is a direct-fit replacement for the 1997-1998 Ford F-150, and it is also listed for the 1998-2001 Ford Explorer and 1997-1998 Ford F-250. The "Vehicles it fits" section shows every listed vehicle.
Which positions is this actuator cataloged for?
It is cataloged for the front left, front right, rear left and rear right positions. The "Vehicles it fits" section shows the listing for your vehicle.
What testing has this actuator gone through?
It has undergone extensive quality and safety performance testing and simulated crash testing under government guidelines. It was also cycle-tested in an actual vehicle door to verify effective use for years.
What are signs of a failing door lock actuator?
Signs include one door that won't lock or unlock with the switch while the others do, intermittent locking, or buzzing from inside the door. Rule out the switch, fuse and wiring before replacing the actuator.
