My driver's side lock button (entry and drive option) has ceased working. I am prepared to DIY the replacement. But I understand that if I replace the whole thing I will need to get the exterior handle painted sapphire blue metallic to match the car. I read on another post that I might be able to swap out the guts of the lock system and retain my original handle, thus avoiding the paint job. Can anyone with experience confirm this is actually possible? I would strongly prefer to avoid the hassle and expense of painting.

 

Anyone?

 

The below are taken from a related thread........have you done a "search"?

"The wires to the handle break with time on the handle pivot point (not a great design), usually you can fix the wiring and add some strain relief, a replacement handle is fairly cheap but it will need to be painted".

"Looks like the part is fairly cheap but it will likely require full door disassembly for replacement. Technically the handle need to be painted, but you could just swap the electronic guts and use your original handle".

 

Ran into the same issue myself. Just picked up a new handle, $46 at the dealer. Looking at it, I don’t see a way to swap the guts. It’s molded in the handle with electrical silicone. I have read some folks found the broken wire and repaired it.

Handle w/ keyless entry 991-537-913-00 I also bought some plastic clips holding the inner panel liner to the door 999-591-525-40

 

Thanks! That is what I needed to know. I have read the previous post but it did not read like first hand experience. Thanks for confirming that the guts are not swappable. Not the answer I was hoping for but at least I know what I am getting into. Looks like I will have to arrange for painting.

 

This may help you. I pulled my door handle out today and found the issue. Two completely cut wires and the other two were close. There is a metal clip to hold the wires in place that is really sharp. No wonder the wires were cut. Terrible design.

 

That is very helpful! Thank you!!! My car is used on most days so if I dismantle the door and it turns out not to be the wires, I don't have the luxury of leaving the car sitting without the door panel off while I wait for a new handle. But it may be worth my trouble to take the door panel off and possibly have to put it back on. If I didn't have to paint the handle it would be a no brainer to replace it with the wires that accompany it.

How are you planning to repair the wires? Solder and shrink tube?

 

You bet! If I had not already bought a new handle I would probably solder the wires. The handle is off to paint shop today.