A previous post linked to YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaOL6XeX8JU) with the clever idea of installing a simple spring to solve the issue of locks going up and down uncontrollably—an issue normally requiring expensive hours of door panel removal and troubleshooting—but did not suggest a source for the spring. After a couple of trials I found a spring on Amazon ( $7.19 for set of 10) that works great! The inside diameter was slightly too small, but I could easily unwind the light gauge spring with enough force to widen it so it slides up and down on the knob easily and does not go down into the knob hole on the door rim. Furthermore, it was not clear from the video if this would fully restore the remote lock and unlock capability, so I was delighted to find out it does! (Not sure why it works, but I'll take it.)
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One additional tip: To gain access to the van without setting off the runaway locks, simply disconnect the battery, use your manual key to unlock the driver's door (the only lock that permits this on my 2002 MV), then go inside to remove the passenger side knob, install the spring, replace the knob, reconnect the battery, and ... voila, full lock functionality restored in minutes for seven bucks and change!
