A Guide to the Door Lock Kit for the 1991-1995 Ford Explorer
If your key is sticking or the lock feels loose in the door of your first-generation Explorer, this guide is for you.
- Failure of the mechanical door lock cylinder is common on the 1991-1995 Explorer due to age.
- This part is for key-related problems; it will not fix failing power locks, which are caused by the actuator.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition are the recommended choice, as new OEM parts are scarce.
- Replacement is a straightforward DIY job that requires removing the interior door panel.
Is Your 1991-1995 Ford Explorer Door Lock Failing?
On a classic first-generation Ford Explorer, it's common for the door locks to wear out. After 30 years, the small metal parts inside the lock cylinder simply get tired. You might find your key is hard to turn, especially in cold weather, or that the entire lock assembly feels loose in the door. This guide covers the most common solution: replacing the door lock cylinder kit.
Symptoms of a Bad Door Lock Cylinder
When the lock cylinder fails, you'll notice issues with using the key. Common signs include:
- The key is difficult to insert or remove.
- You have to jiggle the key to get the lock to turn.
- The lock cylinder feels loose or can be pulled partially out of the door, which can also be a sign of damage from an attempted break-in.
- The key spins in the lock without engaging the mechanism.
Lock Cylinders vs. Power Lock Actuators
It's crucial to know which part has failed. If your key doesn't work but the power lock button on the door panel still locks and unlocks the doors, the problem is almost certainly your lock cylinder. If the key works fine but the power lock button does nothing, the issue is likely a failed power door lock actuator or a wiring problem.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Door Lock Kit
For a vehicle of this age, finding new original equipment (OEM) Motorcraft parts is nearly impossible. The good news is that the aftermarket provides high-quality, affordable solutions.
- Brand Quality: Brands like Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products) are well-regarded by professional mechanics and are known for making reliable parts that fit correctly. They often use durable materials like brass tumblers and die-cast zinc cores for their lock cylinders.
- OEM vs. Aftermarket: In this case, a quality aftermarket kit is the best and most practical choice. These kits are designed to be direct replacements and often meet or exceed the original specifications. You are not sacrificing quality by choosing a reputable aftermarket brand for this part.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Door Lock Kit | $40 - $60 |
| New OEM Door Lock Kit | $100 - $150 (Very rare) |
| Used OEM | $20 - $40 (Not recommended due to age and wear) |
| Shop Labor for Installation | $85 - $125 |
Cost estimates are approximate and can vary by location and supplier. Labor costs are for cylinder replacement only.
Installation Tips
Replacing the door lock cylinders is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. The process involves removing the inner door panel to access the back of the lock. The cylinder is held in place by a small metal clip. Once the clip is removed, the old cylinder slides out, and the new one slides in. The most time-consuming part is typically removing the door panel without breaking any of the old plastic clips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What comes in a typical door lock kit?
For this Explorer, a standard kit includes two new door lock cylinders (one for the driver's side, one for the passenger's side) and two matching keys. Some more extensive kits may also include a matching ignition lock cylinder.
Will I need a separate key for my doors and ignition?
Yes, if you only replace the door lock cylinders, the new keys will operate the doors, and your original key will still be needed for the ignition. If you want one key for everything, you would need to buy a complete kit that includes the ignition cylinder as well.
Were there any recalls for the door locks on the 1991-1995 Explorer?
No, there were no specific recalls issued by the NHTSA for the door lock cylinders or power lock actuators on the 1991-1995 Ford Explorer. Recalls for this vehicle concerned other items like seat belts and fuel tanks.
Can I fix my power locks with this kit?
No. This kit fixes problems related to using the physical key. If your power locks are not working, you likely need to diagnose the power lock actuator, the switch, or the wiring in the door.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: F37Z1022050A F3TZ7822050B F57Z1022050A F2UZ1522050A F3UZ1522050A F3UZ1522050C F3UZ1522050D F3UZ1522050F F57Z7822050A F65Z1522050B F65Z1522050D
Kit typically includes two door lock cylinders and two matching keys. Cylinders are designed for the front driver and passenger doors.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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