Finally got around to replacing the LF door lock actuator on my 2001 D2 today. It went smoother than I expected. After using the the new actuator, it dawned on my just how worn the old one was. I thought it was just that the motors in these things that go bad, but now the whole mechanism feels tighter. The door even sounds better opening and closing. And so it's occurred to me that even though the other three are still working at the moment, they all feel like my LF used to. It's only a matter of time before they go, as well.

I know that in many cases, even parts that seem obscure are actually quite standard and are used by multiple car makers. But that actuator is such specific part for a specific model car. And yet, thankfully, someone is still out there manufacturing it. If they weren't, I'd be screwed. I'm sure there's all sorts of parts on my D2 that could theoretically be fabricated if necessary. But that actuator? It's so intricate. I can't imagine you could ever do that fix without a new one.

How long can we really expect to have access to these parts?

Can anyone here who's familiar with the aftermarket part business shed some light on how it works?

 

Where did you get the door actuator from and how much?

 

Atlantic British - $150

Land Rover Actuator, Left Front Door (Genuine Part # FQJ102910) | Land Rover Electrical Parts

They have all 5 actuators.

 

Looking through the forum a bit more, it looks like there's been a good amount of discussion about how to repair these actuators with new motors, etc.

So I suppose it's possible to get by longterm without buying new actuators, which is nice to know.

But I'd still love some insight into this industry. I'm sure businesses like Atlantic British will be around for awhile, but how long can they expect to be able to source DII parts like this?

 

They have been sourcing series and RRC parts since they opened their doors, I would say we have awhile

 

I hope so. I'd be curious to know if demand for D2 parts is on the rise (as more parts from this generation are failing) or falling (as more D2s are leaving service altogether). Maybe it's breaking even.

Cheers.