Subaru Crosstrek 2014 Rear Door Locks Not Working? Fix It

Imagine this: you’re in a rush, heading out the door, and when you go to lock your Subaru Crosstrek 2014’s rear door, it doesn’t budge. Frustrating, right? Whether you’re dealing with a single stubborn door or all of them refusing to lock, it’s one of those car issues that can totally throw off your day.

But don’t panic just yet – this is something you can fix! In this guide, we’re diving into the most common reasons behind the malfunctioning rear door locks on your 2014 Subaru Crosstrek and showing you how to diagnose and fix the problem in simple steps. Ready to get your locks working again? Let’s get into it!

Common Reasons Why Subaru Crosstrek 2014 Rear Door Locks are Not Working

When you notice that the rear door locks on your Subaru Crosstrek 2014 aren’t working, it’s easy to jump to conclusions, but it’s important to know that the issue could be caused by several different factors. Before you start stressing out, let’s go over some of the most common reasons why your locks might be malfunctioning.

1. Faulty Door Lock Actuator

One of the most common culprits behind a non-functioning door lock is a faulty door lock actuator. This small electronic component controls the locking and unlocking of your vehicle’s doors. If the actuator goes bad, your rear doors won’t respond when you try to lock or unlock them. This issue is often caused by wear and tear over time. The actuator might be stuck, broken, or simply worn out after years of use. It’s frustrating, but good news: replacing the door lock actuator is something most people can do themselves with a little patience and the right tools.

2. Wiring Issues

Another possible reason your door locks aren’t working could be related to wiring problems. Over time, the wires that connect the lock mechanism to the car’s electrical system can become loose, corroded, or even break. This can cause a loss of communication between the lock and the rest of the system, preventing it from locking or unlocking as it should. Sometimes, the issue can be as simple as a loose wire or a disconnected harness, but in more severe cases, it could require replacing damaged wiring, which can be a bit more involved.

3. Blown Fuse

Sometimes, the issue is as simple as a blown fuse. Your Subaru Crosstrek’s electrical system is powered by fuses, and when one blows, it can affect a variety of components, including the door locks. A fuse is designed to protect the electrical system by cutting off power when there’s an overload or short circuit. If your rear door locks stop working, a blown fuse could be the reason. The good news is that fuses are easy to check and replace, so if this is the cause, you can get your locks back in working order in no time.

4. Dirt and Debris

It’s also possible that your rear door locks aren’t working due to dirt, dust, or debris that has built up inside the lock mechanism. Over time, this gunk can clog up the moving parts, making it hard for the locks to operate smoothly. If the locking mechanism gets too clogged, it can stop responding entirely. You might notice that the lock is slow to react, or it may make a strange noise when you try to lock or unlock the door. Luckily, cleaning and lubricating the lock is often all it takes to get it working properly again.

5. Malfunctioning Key Fob or Keyless Entry System

If you’re relying on the key fob or the keyless entry system to unlock the rear doors and it’s not working, the issue could be with the fob itself or the system. A dead battery in the key fob, interference with the signal, or a problem with the keyless entry module can all prevent the door locks from responding. This is usually an easy fix – replacing the battery in the fob or reprogramming the keyless entry system might do the trick.

6. Misalignment or Damage to the Door Mechanism

Sometimes, the rear door lock might not be working simply because the door or locking mechanism is misaligned or damaged. This could happen if the door has been slammed too hard or has been in a minor accident. A misaligned door latch might not engage the locking mechanism properly, leading to issues with locking and unlocking. In some cases, the door lock may even become physically damaged, preventing it from functioning altogether.

How to Diagnose Rear Door Lock Problems in a Subaru Crosstrek 2014

So, now that you know the most common reasons behind malfunctioning rear door locks, let’s go over how you can diagnose the problem. The first step in solving any car issue is figuring out exactly what’s wrong. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you determine what’s causing your Subaru Crosstrek 2014’s rear door locks to stop working.

Step 1: Check the Fuses

Before you start tearing into your car’s door panel, it’s a good idea to check the fuses. A blown fuse could be the simplest fix to get your rear door locks working again. To check the fuses, open the fuse box (usually located under the dashboard or in the engine bay), and look for any blown fuses. If you find a blown fuse, replace it with a new one of the same rating. Then, test the locks again to see if that solves the problem.

Step 2: Test the Key Fob and Keyless Entry System

Next, test your key fob and the keyless entry system. If the rear doors are not responding to the key fob, try using the manual lock switch inside the car to see if the problem is with the fob or the door mechanism itself. If the doors work with the manual switch, the problem could be with the key fob or the keyless entry system. If neither the key fob nor the manual switch works, it’s likely the issue lies within the lock mechanism itself.

Step 3: Listen for Clicking Sounds

When you press the lock button, pay attention to any sounds coming from the doors. If you hear a clicking noise, this usually means that the door lock actuator is trying to work but isn’t functioning properly. If you don’t hear anything at all, the issue could be with the wiring, fuse, or electrical system. In this case, you might want to use a multimeter to test for power at the door lock actuator and see if electricity is flowing to the mechanism.

Step 4: Inspect the Wiring and Connections

If the locks still aren’t working after checking the fuses and testing the key fob, the next step is to check the wiring and connections. Look for any loose or disconnected wires, especially in areas where they might be exposed to moisture or physical damage. Sometimes, the wiring harnesses near the door panel can get worn or frayed, causing issues with the door lock system. If you find any damaged wires, you may need to repair or replace them to restore proper function.

Step 5: Inspect the Door Lock Actuator

If you’ve ruled out fuses, wiring issues, and the key fob, the next step is to inspect the door lock actuator itself. To do this, you’ll need to remove the interior door panel, which may involve unscrewing screws and gently prying off plastic trim pieces. Once the panel is removed, you should be able to access the door lock actuator. Look for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. If the actuator is visibly damaged or not working, you’ll likely need to replace it.

Step 6: Clean and Lubricate the Lock Mechanism

Finally, don’t forget to check the lock mechanism itself. Sometimes, dirt and debris can build up inside the lock, causing it to jam or malfunction. Use a can of compressed air to blow out any dust or dirt from the locking mechanism, and then apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts. This can help the lock function more smoothly and may solve the issue if dirt was the cause.

Fixing Subaru Crosstrek 2014 Rear Door Lock Issues

Once you’ve diagnosed the issue, it’s time to fix the problem. Depending on the cause, this could be a quick fix or a more involved repair. Let’s look at the most common fixes for rear door lock issues on the Subaru Crosstrek 2014.

Replacing a Blown Fuse

If the issue is simply a blown fuse, the solution is easy: replace the blown fuse. You can find replacement fuses at most auto parts stores, and they’re relatively inexpensive. Just make sure to get a fuse with the same rating as the one you’re replacing. After replacing the fuse, test the rear doors to see if the locks are working again.

Replacing a Faulty Door Lock Actuator

If the door lock actuator is the problem, you’ll need to replace it. This involves removing the interior door panel and disconnecting the old actuator. Once the old actuator is removed, you can install the new one, making sure to reconnect the electrical wiring properly. This may take a little time and patience, but it’s a relatively straightforward fix that many DIYers can tackle. Just make sure to buy a quality replacement actuator to ensure it lasts.

Fixing Wiring Issues

If the problem is related to wiring, the solution could be as simple as reconnecting loose wires or replacing a damaged wire. Use a multimeter to check for continuity and ensure that power is flowing to the door lock actuator. If you find a broken or frayed wire, you may need to cut and splice the wire to repair the connection. Make sure to use electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to protect the repair.

Cleaning and Lubricating the Lock Mechanism

If dirt or debris is causing the lock to malfunction, cleaning and lubricating the mechanism is an easy fix. Use compressed air to blow out any dirt, then apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts. This can help the lock function more smoothly and prevent future issues. Regularly cleaning and lubricating your door locks can help keep them in good working order for years to come.

I hope this guide helped you figure out why your Subaru Crosstrek 2014 rear door locks aren’t working and how to fix them. Whether it’s a fuse, actuator, wiring issue, or something else, there’s a good chance you can get those locks working again without too much trouble. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Fix the Rear Door Locks without Professional Help?

Yes, many rear door lock issues can be fixed by yourself with basic tools and a little time. If you’re comfortable removing the door panel and working with electrical components, you can replace parts like the fuse or actuator.

Can a Blown Fuse Really Cause the Door Locks to Stop Working?

Yes, a blown fuse can cut off power to the door lock system, preventing the locks from functioning. Replacing a blown fuse is an easy and inexpensive fix.

Do I Need to Replace the Door Lock Actuator If It’s Not Working?

If the door lock actuator is damaged or malfunctioning, it will need to be replaced to restore function. However, if it’s just dirty or clogged, cleaning and lubricating the mechanism might be enough.

Is It Safe to Use a Lubricant on the Door Lock Mechanism?

Yes, applying a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts of the door lock can help it function more smoothly. Be sure to use a lubricant designed for automotive locks to avoid causing damage.

Can I Fix the Wiring Issues Myself, or Should I See a Professional?

If the wiring is damaged or loose, you can attempt to repair it yourself if you’re familiar with electrical work. However, if the wiring is severely damaged or you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to consult a professional mechanic.

Is It Expensive to Replace the Door Lock Actuator on a Subaru Crosstrek 2014?

The cost to replace a door lock actuator can vary depending on the parts and labor. The actuator itself is usually affordable, but if you’re hiring a mechanic, the labor costs may add up. Replacing it yourself can save you money.

Do I Need to Replace the Entire Door Lock System If Only One Lock is Not Working?

No, you only need to replace the faulty part, such as the actuator or wiring, to fix the individual lock. There’s no need to replace the entire system unless all of the locks are malfunctioning.

Is There a Way to Prevent Rear Door Lock Problems from Happening Again?

Regular maintenance can help prevent lock issues. Clean and lubricate the lock mechanisms periodically and check the fuses and wiring for damage. Taking good care of your vehicle’s locks can extend their lifespan.