Door Lock Buzzing

[babbott]

A problem recently popped up with my 97 boxster. When the doors are locked or unlocked there is a buzzing noise coming from cabin interior while the the locks engage or disengage (sounds like possibly a relay chattering). The buzzing lasts only a few seconds and occurs regardless of whether I use the toggle switch on the dash, the key in the drivers side door lock, or the remote to lock/unlock doors. While the locks still function I would like to identify the source of the noise and attempt to fix. If anyone has seen this or has any ideas as to the cause would appreciate any help you can offer.

Thanks

Brian

[MNBoxster]

Hi,

It sounds as if a possible relay issue to me. Either get down where the relays are and listen as you activate the locks, or simply change the relay. Either just buy a new one (they're pretty cheap) or swap it with another relay in the car you know to be good. Several of the relays used are identical, just be sure to read the schematic on the relays themselves to insure they're the same.

Happy Motoring!...Jim'99

Edited September 15, 2005 by MNBoxster

[babbott]

I reviewed the relay charts found elsewhere in the forum and do not see any relays in the front or back relay panels that appear to be related to the door locks. Can anyone let me know if there is a relay controlling door locks and if so where I might find it.

[Tool Pants]

Where does the sound come from?

[babbott]

The sound appears to be coming from within the drivers side door

[Tool Pants]

We had a 1997 owner and when he locked and unlocked the car the drivers side made a racket due to a bad locking solenoid, but the door locked and unlocked. The noise was from inside the door. Passenger side made no noise.

Since it worked and the repair cost was expensive he left it alone. This was a few years ago. Don't know if he ever had it fixed.

[babbott]

I pulled the door panel off this weekend and the noise is coming from a plastic component inside the door adjacent to the door handle (I assume this is the locking solenoid as it has wiring going to it). As my locks also still function if I leave this for now and the unit fails completely will I still be able to get into the vehicle if locked?