How do you adjust a Windstar side - sliding electric door which wont latch - door closes but pops back open especially in cold weather - can the steel pull cable be tightened or loosened?

Answer 1

Helping automatic doors to stay closedThe first thing to try is to clean the contacts on the door pillar with a pencil eraser.

I broke down and brought it in to the dealer. He said there was a trip switch mounted at the rear latch mechanism that needed replacement ($40). I was able to replace it myself.

This is very common on all Windstars.

Try lubing the contacts, cleaning the track where the door wheel rolls on rocker panel, and make sure there are no obstructions anywhere in the doors path. it happens to mine about once a month and there is usually dirt in the path somewhere which trips a safety sensor

You might also try cleaning the set of contacts and the pins. This is easiest done with a pencil eraser - simply rub the eraser on each contact to remove the oxidization that naturally starts to build up.

The door works on a "cycle" and the electronic pad on the door pillar may have become dirty.

Open the door and close it, and open again manually. pushing it all the way open until it locks into place. then actuate it with the door close button on your overhead console. If it does not work, then take a clean rag and window cleaner and wipe the electronic pad on the door pillar to ensure there is a good signal being sent.

Try cleaning the brass looking contacts on the door and the ones on the door jam.