Door Lock Actuator - Rear

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear door lock actuator on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic. The actuator controls the power lock function for the rear door.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear door lock actuator assembly × 1 — 72615-TBA-A01 (driver) or 72655-TBA-A01 (passenger) - verify specific door
• Door panel retaining clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for electrical system discharge
3. Open the rear door fully and secure if needed to prevent movement during repair
4. Gather all tools and new actuator before beginning

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove door panel screws and switches
   Remove the Phillips screw from inside the door pull handle recess. Carefully pry out the power window switch panel using a trim tool, then disconnect the electrical connector by pressing the tab and pulling straight out.
2. 2

   Remove inner door handle trim
   Use a trim removal tool to carefully pry off the inner door handle trim bezel. Start from the bottom edge and work around the perimeter. Set aside the trim piece in a safe location.
3. 3

   Release door panel clips
   Starting at the bottom rear corner of the door panel, use a trim removal tool to release the retaining clips around the perimeter. Work methodically around the panel, applying gentle outward pressure. There are approximately 8-10 clips securing the panel. Lift the panel upward to disengage it from the window sill, then pull away from the door.
4. 4

   Disconnect door panel wiring
   Before completely removing the door panel, disconnect any remaining electrical connectors for courtesy lights or additional switches. Press the connector tabs and pull straight out. Set the door panel aside on a protected surface to avoid scratches.
5. 5

   Peel back moisture barrier
   Carefully peel back the plastic moisture barrier sheet at the rear lower corner of the door where the lock actuator is located. Only peel back enough to access the actuator (approximately 1/3 of the barrier). Avoid tearing the barrier; it must reseal properly.
6. 6

   Locate and access lock actuator
   The lock actuator is located in the rear lower section of the door, near the latch assembly. Use a flashlight to identify the actuator assembly and its mounting bolts. Note the position of the lock rod connections before removal.
7. 7

   Disconnect actuator electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the lock actuator. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the actuator. Ensure the connector is moved out of the way to prevent damage during actuator removal.
8. 8

   Disconnect lock rod linkages
   The actuator has one or more plastic lock rod connections. Carefully unclip each rod by pressing the retaining clip and sliding the rod end out of the actuator arm. Note the orientation and position of each rod connection for reassembly.
9. 9

   Remove actuator mounting bolts
   Remove the three 10mm mounting bolts securing the actuator to the door frame. Support the actuator while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Carefully extract the actuator through the access opening in the door frame.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Install new actuator
    Position the new actuator into the door frame opening, aligning the mounting holes. Hand-thread all three mounting bolts before tightening. Torque the mounting bolts to specification in a star pattern to ensure even seating.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect lock rod linkages
    Reconnect each lock rod to the new actuator in the same positions noted during disassembly. Ensure each rod connection clicks firmly into place and is secure. Gently tug each rod to verify proper engagement.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Plug the electrical connector onto the new actuator until it clicks into place. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged.
13. 13

    Test actuator operation
    Before reinstalling the door panel, reconnect the negative battery terminal temporarily. Use the key fob or master lock switch to test the rear door lock and unlock operation. Verify smooth operation in both directions. Disconnect the battery again before proceeding with reassembly.

Reassembly

1. Press the moisture barrier firmly back into place, ensuring a complete seal around all edges to prevent water intrusion
2. Reconnect all electrical connectors to the door panel components before installing the panel
3. Align the door panel with the window sill and press down, then firmly press around the perimeter to engage all retaining clips until each clicks into place
4. Install the inner door handle trim bezel by pressing firmly until it snaps into position
5. Reconnect the power window switch connector and press the switch panel into place
6. Install the Phillips screw in the door pull handle recess and tighten securely
7. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification

Verification

• Test the power lock function from both the key fob and the master lock switch multiple times to ensure reliable operation
• Verify the rear door locks and unlocks smoothly without unusual noise or binding
• Test the manual lock override using the inner door handle to ensure it operates correctly
• Check that all door panel clips are fully seated and the panel is secure with no rattles
• Verify all switches and controls on the door panel function properly
• Ensure the door opens and closes normally without interference from the panel or any components

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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