[stealthify]

My windows and locks are acting up, they have a mind of their own!:
This is probably one of the most annoying electrical problems on our cars, and unfortunately it is quite common. Sometimes they may work, while other times they may not. Its not unheard of for the doors to unlock themselves, or to randomly jump between locked and unlocked on their own. My first suggestion would be to contact your local exorcist. If that doesn’t work out for you, its time to do some hit-or-miss troubleshooting.

First and foremost, and often the most common fix, would be the wiring that can be located near your door hinges. Check for any exposed or broken wires. If you find any, re-solder and wrap with electrical tape.

If that isn’t the issue, it is possible that your ETACs unit has bit the dust. The ETACs unit is the ‘brain’ for many of your car’s electrical functions (such as automatically turning off your lights, controlling windows and locks, etc). If this unit is damaged, it will need to be replaced. You can find the ETACs under the driver-side of the dash, near the fuse box, and looks like a 5inch by 3inch metal box (about 1 inch thick) with two wiring harnesses plugged into it.

You may also take a look at the button/switches themselves. Perhaps the switches on the passenger side DO work, but the ones on the driver side do not. If this is the case, you may want to replace the switch or if you’re feeling daring you can open the switch up to clean the contacts. Be forewarned that there are loose parts inside these switches (springs, etc) that can jump out on you.

Last but not least, there is also a relay near the fuse box for the windows that may need to be replaced if your locks are completely non-responsive.

If the problems you are having are only window-related (such as jerky window movement, etc), read the next question. (My power windows are jerky, broken or are making strange noises!)