Expert: Sean Halliday - 12/31/2007

Question
Hi there,
I have a 1998 Volkswagon Passat. The rear drivers side door isn't unlocking. Reluctantlty I took most of the door apart found a dangling cable that looks to be the power to the lock. I plugged that back in but now the door makes a strange noise as if the power door is trying to open but slipping.  I can't seem to figure out how to get to the actual power lock to see if  its something I can fix. All bolts are off but the rod that attaches to the power lock and to the little skinny black knob thing that shows you wether the door is open or closed is part of the problem. Geez that sounded akward. How do I get to the power door gizmo and can these thingys be fixed. Thanks

Answer
The lock can be removed by removing the torx screws at the door check.Im thinking the window has snagged the cable and pulled it out as there is no other way for it to come off.The skinny black knob thingy screws up same as a bolt would.Turn it anti clockwise between your fingers and it will come off.All  the components are removable and replaceable.Patience and you will get them off.The power unit/lock will probably need to be renewed if the wires were torn out by the window.Check the window travels freely as you install all the parts.