How to Repair a Dodge Dakota Door Latch

If the door latch on your Dodge Dakota truck is broken or otherwise not working, it leads to a big problem. You need to repair the door by replacing the latch, which requires you to open up the door and reach inside it. The exact process can vary depending on the year of your vehicle, especially with the number and size of the screws you must remove.

Instructions

1

Roll the door's window all the way up and then disconnect the negative battery cable. If the Dakota uses manual windows, you can perform these tasks in reverse order.

2

Pry off the power window control switch with a trim stick, or disconnect the manual window crank by rubbing a rag behind it until the clip disengages. Remove all other small trim panels on the main door panel.

3

Remove all the retaining screws to the door trim panel using a Phillips screwdriver, pull the panel upward to release its hook from the door, and disconnect all wiring harnesses and the handle link rod. Peel back the plastic water shield behind the panel.

4

Unscrew the fasteners for the window's rear glass run channel, located near the top and bottom of the door -- this should require a Torx wrench. Move the channel away from the latch so you'll have more room to work on the latch.

5

Rotate the plastic retaining clips off the rods, detach the latch links and disconnect the electrical connector. Remove the three mounting screws on the outside of the door with the correct-size Torx wrench (you may also need an impact-type screwdriver to loosen the screws) and remove the latch from the door.

6

Insert the replacement latch within the door and secure it with the mounting screws. Connect the electrical connector and the link rods to the latch.

7

Fasten the window run channel back in place, install the door trim panel in the reverse order of installation, and connect the battery cable.