Expert: Roland Finston - 6/19/2011

Question
The passenger sliding door will not operate via the electronic control, manually works easily; the driver door works properly. Is the flexible cable the only possibility? With the only test being removal and ohming?

Answer
Hi Chris,
My suggestion would be to get a fault code readout using a reasonably sophisticated plug-in unit to the socket under the dash by the steering column. You would be looking for a 4-digit fault code number with the prefix B. That sliding door system is controlled by the body controller and a local sliding door module and while all the usual parts are there and the wiring, most of it is handled by digital communication and so there is a built-in analytic capability to diagnose malfunction. Once you get a number let me know what it is and I can check the meaning of the code and the possible approaches to repair. That would be a more efficient way to approach the situation. An Autozone or similar nationwide parts store may do it for free or an independent shop should charge less than $40 for a readout. Just for fun, try turning the ignition key:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" in 5 seconds or less. Then watch the odometer window for any appearance of 4-digit numbers instead of the mileage reading. I am not clear as to whether this only accesses engine codes (P) or will also give you the body (B) codes.
Roland
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