Ford Fusion: Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems / Front Door Latch. Removal and Installation

Removal

NOTE: LH side shown, RH side similar.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

1. Remove the front door window regulator.
   Refer to: Front Door Window Regulator (501-11 Glass, Frames and Mechanisms, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Remove the exterior front door handle.
   Refer to: Exterior Front Door Handle (501-14 Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Remove the retainer from the exterior front door handle reinforcement.
   Torque: 62 lb.in (7 Nm)

1. Remove the front door latch retainers.
   Torque: 71 lb.in (8 Nm)

1. Disconnect the front door latch electrical connector.
   

1. Remove the front door latch window run bolts.
   Torque: 106 lb.in (12 Nm)

1. 
   
   1. Route the interior front door handle cable through the door.
      
   2. Remove the front door latch assembly.
      

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   Remove the interior front door handle cable from the front door latch.
   

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   1. While turning the release screw the handle rotates the lever releasing the tension on the cable.
      
   2. Remove the cable eyelet from the lever.
      

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   Remove the front door latch.
   
   • Remove the retainers from the front door latch.
     
   • Disconnect the exterior door handle reinforcement cable from the front door latch.
     
   • Disconnect the lock rod from the front door latch.
     

Installation

1. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
   

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   Install the front door latch.
   
   1. Install the retainers from the front door latch.
      
   2. Connect the exterior door handle reinforcement cable to the front door latch.
      
   3. Connect the lock rod to the front door latch.
      

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   NOTE: This step must be done correctly or the exterior door handle will not engage the lever on installation.

   1. Install the cable eyelet to the lever.
      
   2. While keeping tension on the cable and holding the handle lever in the engaged position, turn the release screw until the handle lever is positioned against the stop.
      

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   Install the interior front door handle cable to the front door latch.