A Guide to Replacing the Door Lock Actuator on Your 2010-2014 Acura TL
If your Acura TL's door locks are making strange noises or have stopped working, you're not alone—here's how to fix it.
- Actuator failure is a common wear item on the 2010-2014 Acura TL; it is not subject to a recall.
- Key symptoms are buzzing noises from the door and intermittent or complete failure of a single door's power lock.
- Replacement is a feasible DIY job, but you must order the correct part for the specific door you're fixing.
- A quality aftermarket brand like Standard Ignition is a reliable alternative to the OEM part, which is also known to fail.
Is Your Acura TL Door Lock Actuator Failing?
Door lock actuator failure is a very common problem for many Acura and Honda vehicles, and the 2010-2014 TL is no exception. The issue usually starts with one door and happens gradually. If you notice any of the following signs, your actuator is likely wearing out.
Key Failure Symptoms:
- Buzzing or Grinding Noise: The most common sign is a loud buzzing, clicking, or grinding sound from inside the door when you try to lock or unlock it. This is the sound of the small motor's internal gears failing as they try 🎬 Hear what a failing actuator motor sounds like here. to move the lock.
- Intermittent Failure: The lock may work sometimes but not others. This erratic behavior is a classic symptom of a dying actuator motor.
- Total Failure: Eventually, the door will stop responding completely to the key fob or the interior power lock switch. You will have to lock and unlock that door manually with the physical key or the tab on the door panel.
Pro Tip: If only one door is having problems, the actuator in that specific door is almost certainly the cause. If all your power locks 🎬 Watch this overview of common door problems for every door. stop working at the same time, the problem is more likely a fuse, relay, or main body control unit.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Actuator
When your original actuator fails, you have a choice between a new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part from Acura or an aftermarket part. Since even the original factory actuators are known to fail, a high-quality aftermarket part can be a smart and cost-effective choice.
Aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products) produce replacement parts designed to meet or exceed original specifications and are trusted by professional mechanics. These brands focus on quality materials and testing. Cheaper, unbranded parts found online can be a gamble and may fail quickly.
A Note on Recalls and Service Bulletins
While there have been several recalls for the 2010-2014 Acura TL, they all concern the vehicle's airbags. Currently, there are no official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Acura or the NHTSA for failing door lock actuators. This indicates the failures are considered a normal wear-and-tear issue rather than a manufacturing defect requiring a recall.
Cost of Replacing an Acura TL Door Lock Actuator
The total cost depends on whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional mechanic. Each door requires its own specific actuator, so be sure to order the correct part for the position you are replacing (e.g., Front Driver Side).
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Part | $80 - $115 |
| New Aftermarket Part (Quality Brand) | $90 - $121 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $272 - $346 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the door lock actuator myself?
Yes, this is a manageable DIY project for someone with basic mechanical skills and tools. The process involves removing the interior door panel, carefully peeling back the plastic weather barrier, disconnecting some electrical plugs and rods, and unbolting the actuator assembly. It typically takes about two hours. Be sure to have the window rolled all the way 🎬 See this step-by-step walkthrough of the actuator replacement process. up before you begin.
Do I need special tools for the job?
Basic hand tools like a screwdriver set and sockets are required. A plastic trim removal tool is highly recommended to avoid scratching or breaking the door panel clips. Some screws holding the latch may be very tight, so an impact driver can be helpful but is not always necessary.
Is the actuator the same for all four doors?
No, each door (Front Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Driver, Rear Passenger) uses a unique, non-interchangeable actuator assembly. You must order the specific part for the door you are repairing.
My "Door Ajar" light is stuck on. Is that the actuator?
It can be. The actuator assembly often contains the sensor that tells the car if the door is closed. If this sensor fails, the car may think the door is always open, which can keep the interior lights on and drain your battery. While this is a common symptom, it can also be caused by a wiring issue, so proper diagnosis is key.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 72110-TK4-A04 (Front Right, supersedes 72110-TK4-A01, 72110-TK4-A02, 72110-TK4-A03)
The door lock actuator is an integrated assembly that includes the latch mechanism and the electronic motor. Each of the four doors requires a unique part number.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Acura TL: