96 ford explorer door will not lock with switch

did you replace the bulbs?

Most likely a failing driver door latch internal contact switch , GEM module thinks it sees door open and kicks seat back and turns dome lite on. Use of a scanner to access GEM will show codes to verify issue.

Check the body control module. All the locks go through it.

This is because your master switch on the drivers door may have corroded oxidation on the contacts inside the switch and that master switch is the feed for all inside door lock switches your remote and keypad work because those electrical signals go through the driver door module you must clean all contacts on the master switch get them shiny you can use 4/0 steel wool and alcohol and also take the lock switch apart and clean the button contacts inside the switch for this use alcohol and 1000 grit sandpaper glued to a pencil and lightly spin in your fingers to shine the contacts sometimes just an eraser works but it depends on the quality of it so go with the sandpaper glued to the pencil or any circular object that will fit inside after this blow out the switch and use the alcohol to clean out and let dry

Roll down the windows then lock the vehicle.

After that go to passenger side an attempt to open from inside. Alarm should go off if any.

Close the doors, turn the ignition switch from off to on (But don't start it) 8 times, the locks will cycle (Lock and unlock), push the lock on the remote, and they should be programmed.

FORD KEY PADS

• Enter permanent factory code
  
• Press the 1/2 button within 5 seconds to enter programming mode
  
• Within 5 seconds enter new code, doors will lock, unlock to verify code, this erases previous codes remotes will also need to be programmed. (MAYBE)
  

KEY PADS/REMOTES

• Insert key, turn ignition off-to- on eight times in succession, ending with key in on position doors will lock, unlock to verify in programming mode
  
• Press any button on new remote, doors will lock, unlock to verify
  
• Do the previous step with the second remote, doors will lock unlock to verify.
  
• Turn ignition off. Doors will again lock, unlock to verify.
  

NOTE-Some vehicles use 5 turns of the key instead of 8

you will have to remove the door panel, check for a disconnected linkage or a broken door latch, sometimes it just needs cleaning and lube, good luck.

The ford dealership is sure to have them, although other place like NAPA, or Autozone may be able to find you replacement ones for a cheaper price.

you will need the manuel to put your own code into the key pad. than you will be able to lock and unlock the doors.