i have a dodge ram 1500 1996 that i just bought (my first dodge) well the locks will not work. both sides wont move using either lock switch, manually i can push down and use key to open but nothing else. i checked fuse and it was fine. so what exact part would i need to fix any help would be wonderful. people keep saying relay but i tried to find that part but have had no luck

 

Can you hear the actuator motor whine when you lock/unlock the switch?

 

all silent not even a click

 

Check for power at the switch in the drivers door. Check an verify the switch actually switches.........

The wires that run thru the rubber boot, from the body, into the door, tend to break.....

 

so i use a test light and poke the power wires? sorry this is my first truck (first i bought on my own) so im not really good at this yet

 

Yep, take the connector off at the switch, there should be three (Six? on for each side?) wires. The ones in the center should have 12v at all times. Key on or not.

 

Here is the door lock wiring diagram. Hope it helps to understand the wiring.

 

alright checked and couldn't get any power through any of those five holes. so should i take door apart and trace wires until i find a break? also what can i do to extend the life of my truck as in what simple tricks are there other then keeping up on maintance.

 

Maintenance is the best thing you can do. Some known problem areas are the plenum, and transmissions..... doing the plenum fix isn't difficult, just time consuming. all parts can be had for under 200 bucks. (includes radiator hoses, and thermostat.)

Yep, need to find out where power stops..... in the boots from body to door is a REAL popular spot.

 

well i have always been a ford guy but since buying this truck i think im in love with dodge. the parts are so much cheaper then fords, runs alot smoother.