A Guide to the 2014-2020 Chevrolet Impala Door Lock Actuator
If your Impala's door locks are acting up, this guide explains the likely cause and how to fix it.
- A single non-responsive door lock is the primary sign of a bad actuator.
- Listen for buzzing or clicking noises from inside the door as an early warning sign.
- While a DIY-friendly repair, using a quality aftermarket brand like Standard Ignition or an OEM part is recommended to avoid repeat labor.
- There are no recalls for the door lock actuators, only for the center console latch on 2014-2015 models.
Is Your Impala's Door Lock Acting Strange?
A common point of failure on the 2014-2020 Chevrolet Impala is the door lock actuator. This part works hard, locking and unlocking your doors thousands of times. When it starts to wear out, you'll notice. The signs can range from a minor annoyance to a security concern. Fortunately, identifying and replacing a bad actuator is a straightforward job.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide on replacing a 2017 Impala door lock actuator.Symptoms of a Failing Door Lock Actuator
If an actuator is failing on your Impala, you will likely experience one or more of the following issues with one specific door:
- Won't Lock or Unlock: The most obvious symptom is a door that doesn't respond to the key fob or the power lock switch. You'll have to lock or unlock it manually.
- Strange Noises: You may hear a buzzing, grinding, or clicking sound coming from inside the door when you try to lock or unlock it. This is the sound of the small motor or gears inside the actuator struggling to work.
- Erratic Behavior: The door lock may work intermittently. Sometimes it might lock or unlock on its own, or cycle rapidly between locked and unlocked.
- Delayed or Sluggish Action: The lock may seem slow to respond after you press the button.
Known Issues: Recalls & Bulletins
While there are no specific recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the door lock actuators on the 2014-2020 Impala, there was a recall for a different latch. GM Recall 14476 (NHTSA Campaign ID: 14V489) was issued for the center console storage compartment door latch on some 2014-2015 models, which could open during a crash. This does not affect the side door locks.
Choosing Your Aftermarket Replacement Part
When replacing your Impala's door lock actuator, you have a choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket parts. While OEM parts guarantee a perfect fit, quality aftermarket brands can offer a reliable repair at a better price.
For this part, two common aftermarket options are available:
- Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products): Often considered a premium aftermarket brand, Standard Motor Products specializes in electrical parts. Their actuators are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications and are known for reliability and consistent performance.
- Skyward: Information on this brand is not widely available in public forums or reviews. When choosing a lesser-known brand, consider the warranty and return policy carefully.
Pro Tip: OEM vs. Aftermarket
For a component inside a door panel that is labor-intensive to access, many mechanics and experienced DIYers lean toward OEM or a top-tier aftermarket brand like Standard Motor Products. While the initial cost is higher, it reduces the risk of having to do the job twice due to a premature failure of a lower-quality part.
What Will This Repair Cost?
The cost to replace a door lock actuator depends on whether you do it yourself or take it to a shop. The part itself is the main expense for a DIY repair, while a shop will add labor costs.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $62 - $162 |
| Shop Labor | $110 - $194 |
| Estimated Total (Shop Repair) | $172 - $356 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just one door lock actuator?
Yes. The actuators operate independently for each door. You only need to replace the one that has failed. However, they tend to fail around the same time due to similar usage, so if one goes, be prepared that another may fail in the near future.
Is replacing the door lock actuator a DIY job?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and the right tools, this is a very feasible DIY project. The process involves removing the interior door panel, peeling back the weather barrier, disconnecting electrical connectors and lock rods, and unbolting the actuator assembly. It can take a couple of hours. The first time is always the longest.
🎬 See a helpful walkthrough of the entire actuator replacement process.Do I need any special tools?
You will need a basic socket set, Torx bit sockets (T27 and T30 are common), and plastic trim removal tools to avoid scratching your door panel. Having a set of needle-nose pliers can also be helpful for disconnecting linkages.
My car alarm is going off randomly. Could it be the actuator?
Yes, a faulty door lock actuator can cause the alarm to go off randomly. The system may mistakenly think a door is being forced open if the actuator sends erratic signals.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 23273329 23273327 84183519 84183521
The door lock actuator for the 2014-2020 Impala is an integrated unit, meaning the lock motor and the door latch are combined into a single assembly. It connects via one electrical connector and is attached to the door with several Torx bolts.
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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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