Why would power locks only work one way?

[waldo786]

What might cause my power locks to only work one way. One side only unlocks and the other side only locks the doors. Any explanation for this?

 

[buickbob]

If I'm not mistaken I think both locks run through the drivers switch. That might be your culprit.

 

[garyk1970]

bad door lock switches.try spraying electronics cleaner in them.let dry for a few minutes before trying.most likely culprit is contaminated contacts in the switches.

also its the pass power window which is controlled by drivers and pass switches (series)

 

[Gary Wells]

I believe that there is also an adjustment in there somewhere, but I have personally never done it. One of my previously owned turbo Buicks did the same thing a few years back and after my mechanic repaired them I asked him what the problem was, and he advised me that they only needed adjustment.

 

[waldo786]

Would buying new switches at the auto parts store also do the trick? My passenger side window works but it won't go up all the way just using the passenger side switch. Would a new switch fix that also? I can always try the electronics cleaner also. Thanks for the help!

 

[tb3]

I had a similiar problem with my power windows. Found that the wiring on the driver side switch where it does a 180 bend into the switch had coroded/broken away. Was not easy to see because the wire insulator was still holding everything together giving the appearance that all contacts where good.

 

[T Spool]

I have a bunch of good used power lock switches. I sell them for $15 pair shipped and test them on my own car so I know they work. Let me know if you would like to try a set.

 

[garyk1970]

Would buying new switches at the auto parts store also do the trick? My passenger side window works but it won't go up all the way just using the passenger side switch. Would a new switch fix that also? I can always try the electronics cleaner also. Thanks for the help!

were now talking power windows;if window will go up part of the way,usually the load resistor(which is in the motor)is going south.check for low voltage at the motor and make sure a switch/corroded terminals is not the culprit.if not replace motor,dont forget to grease regulator assembly ,this will take off a huge load off the motor so new one will last.

 

[TURBOV6]

Another simple thing to do is check for voltage out from the switch and then check the relays on the pass side kick panel.

The windows/lock switches all have the same problem is with connections inside. The lock switch you can open it up and clean out the terminals this will save you $$$ on new switches and these are not cheap.