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How to replace a defender door latch - pictures

by: Auto Express team

27 Sep 2017

Go to: How to replace a Defender door latch

Removing the latch: Remove the internal door pull handle and door card screws, then gently prise the securing plugs free to release the card, exposing the door shell.
Remove the plastic condensation barrier, then lower the window glass and ease the two clamp bolts (5/16 AF) to release the glass from the regulator.
The glass can now be lifted up and secured using adhesive tape over the top of the frame (use paper to protect the paintwork).
Release the door lock motor link (if fitted) from the latch. This one is a crude aftermarket fitment – normally there is a clip to release.
On top of the latch, push the green clip down to release the internal handle rod. Operate the handle and the link will pop free.
Before releasing the door reinforcement panel, any central locking and electric window harness will need to be released from it.
The door reinforcement panel can be detached after removing the six securing bolts as well as one nut at the front edge.
Remove all the fasteners except the lower front one, so the panel will hinge down, giving full access to the latch area.
Remove the two screws that hold the internal lock button assembly, and carefully unclip it from the door casing (it’s a bit delicate).
Turn the lock button and rod through 90 degrees to disengage the rod from the latch, noting the small bush in the link hole.
Disconnect the control rod from the exterior handle’s lock lever by releasing the clip, then turn through 90 degrees to disengage from the latch.
The vertical rod connecting the external handle’s push-button to the latch can now be unclipped at the handle, leaving it attached to the latch.
The rearmost window runner is released by removing two self-tapping screws fitted through the runner, to allow the latch to be manoeuvred out.
The latch is held into the door casing by these three screws which should release easily using a quality driver bit.
The latch needs to be turned through 90 degrees to work it around the window runner, and it can then be withdrawn sideways.
Fitting the new latch: The new latch is a straight forward replacement, but first, a couple of parts need to be transferred from the old latch.
The green clip (centre of pic) for the internal door handle rod needs to be transferred to the new latch before fitting.
Likewise, the control rod from the handle push-button lever to the latch needs to be transferred over to the new latch.
Fit the latch and add the external handle release rod first, adjusting its length if needed, then connect the remaining links, and reassemble.