Jeep Wranglers are one of the most used Jeeps in the world. However, they have their own share of problems, including the back door, which often refuses to lock. So what exactly could cause the lock to work properly?
The most common reason for the lock on the back door not to work is a blown fuse. The broken fuse causes the electrical impulses from the mainframe to be blocked. As such, the lock doesn’t work.
However, this isn’t the only problem that could cause the backdoor of Jeep Wranglers not to work. Are you interested to know more? Well, keep on reading then!
Why the Jeep Wrangler Back Door Isn’t Locking Properly?
There could be several reasons why the Jeep Wrangler’s rear door might refuse to lock properly. We have displayed some of the common problems below for you to take a look at.
1. Broken Fuse
A broken fuse is one of the most common reasons for the car’s rear doors not to lock or unlock properly. Usually, over-exertion of electricity or extreme voltages within the wires of the Jeep can cause the fuse to break.
The broken fuse has broken the channel for electric transfer. As such, the wires will transport no impulses from the mainframe to the door’s command center that tells it to lock or unlock.
2. Faulty Handles
The handles must function for the locks to work correctly. For instance, if your handles break down or are at the point where it is fragile enough to break, the lock might not work the way you want them to.
Usually, replacing the faulty handle with a functioning better quality one should fix the problem.
3. Jammed Hatch
Another prevalent issue that could cause your Wrangler’s rear door not to lock is a blocked or jammed hatch.
These jams are usually caused by the residual remains of dried lubricants and dust particles from the surroundings accumulated over a long time.
4. Broken lever
When opening the rear door, the lever that you press can also be prone to various issues. While it is not directly exposed, it can still break down if too much pressure has been applied either internally or externally.
Replacing the lever is a lot of work and will require a professional to help you out.
5. Too tight doors
Years of inactivity can cause the back doors of your Jeep to malfunction or even refuse to lock. Let’s consider the scenario where you use the rear doors after a very long time.
In such cases, the rear door will be incredibly tight. You will feel that they have become too heavy as they won’t budge from their original place.
How To Fix Jeep Wrangler Back Door Locking Problem?
Now that we are done explaining the problems, we can move on to fixing them. Look at the step-by-step procedure given below, depending on the situation.
Fixing Jammed Hatch:
Fixing any hatches that have been jammed is pretty easy. However, it will take a long time as you need to follow through with all appropriate steps.
Step-1: De-attach
Use screwdrivers to open the hatch to the door. Place the components on a cloth and make sure not to lose them.
Step-2: Clean the Internals
You can use cleaning liquids of your choice to clean the inside of the hatch. Use thin cotton bars to help in your cleaning. Make sure to clean the small components as well.
Step-3: Dry and Re-attach
Allow the components and the hatch to dry. Then re-attach them back into their proper place.
Fixing Stiff And Tight Door:
There are indeed some technicalities involved. However, as long as you have the right knowledge, you will be done with the required steps in no time.
Step-1: Wipe the Joints
Use a slightly wet microfiber cloth to wipe the joints of the door. This is to remove any remains of dust or sand accumulating from the years of inactivity.
Step-2: Apply Lubricant
Take another dry cloth and pour small amounts of lubricant of your choice on it. Then rub the joints to make them shiny. Ensure that you do not apply the lubrication in excess, as this might harden the oil.
Replacing Faulty Lever Parts:
Another similar issue is that it won’t consume much time. However, a slight knowledge of the technicalities will surely help before you follow the proceeding steps.
Step-1: Detach And Separate the Parts
Use screwdrivers to detach the hinges of the door. Remove the lever and all other components in the lock.
Step-2: Replace the broken components
Purchase alternate parts of the lever and replace the ones that are causing the lever not to work. Once replaced, you can fix the door back into its palace.
Fixing The Fuse:
We don’t recommend that you try to fix the fuse by yourself. This is because there are a lot of live wires and technical knowledge involved. Instead, hire a professional to help out in a fix.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix The Jeep Wrangler Back Door Locking Issue?
The amount of money you will be paying for fixing the back door lock of your Jeep will differ significantly depending on various elements and factors.
However, they can all be categorized under two major elements. These are the cost of hiring a mechanic and the expense of buying the replaceable parts when required.
Labor Cost:
The labor cost or the amount of money you will be spending to hire a professional mechanic will differ depending on the mechanic themselves.
Typically, this is rated at between 35-50 USD. However, if too much work is involved in fixing the lock, the labor cost can exceed 100 USD.
Parts Cost:
Not all issues require you to buy alternative parts. However, most of the time, you will need to purchase various components if you do not have them already.
If you want to replace the entire lock of your Jeep Wrangler, this will set you back at 71 to 80 USD. Additionally, other small components in the lever can cost a maximum of 35 USD.
Based on the breakdown displayed above, we can safely assess that the total amount of money you might be paying is about 110 USD on average. Of course, depending on different variables, the final price can differ a lot.
Conclusion
Fixing the Back door of your Jeep Wrangler can be challenging. However, that depends on the exact problem that you are facing.
For instance, when replacing the fuse, there are a lot of hidden dangers involved that an amateur has no idea of. This scenario isn’t the on;y existing one either.
That is why, if you are still stubborn about doing it yourself, we ask you to do your research well. Take plenty of time in the preparatory stages to ensure that you have everything that a professional mechanic would use.
Additionally, take all safety precautions and do not compromise with them. After all, there is nothing as valuable as life itself. Trying to fix your Wrangler and getting injured is not worth all the hassle and money.
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