I recently acquired a used 2003 XLT Explorer with Auto/AWD/4WD. Still learning about the vehicle. It has close to 300K miles, but seems to be in reliable condition. I had to replace the left rear axle shaft, and it slips some going into 3rd gear. I have the new servo kit to fix this problem, but have not installed it yet. I'm a long tern Ford fan, and have several other Ford vehicles. I'm a shade tree mechanic and do most of my own repairs and modifications. I would like to disengage the auto door lock when shifted into drive, but need directions on how to do it. I stopped by the local Ford dealership to ask about it and was told that since I do not have the key pad on the door post I could not delete the auto door lock feature. I'm sure there must be a way and would appreciate someone providing the process, or agreeing that it can't be done. Thanks.

 

Welcome to the site..

Not sure on the auto lock, but possibly with FORScan.....

 

I found the process to disable the auto lock feature at an on-line site. Possibly you could post it for use by others in the future.
Turn the ignition switch from OFF to Run.
Press the power door lock UNLOCK button three times.
Turn the ignition switch from RUN to OFF.
Press the power door lock UNLOCK button three times.
Turn the ignition switch from OFF to Run.
Listen for the vehicle's horn to chirp one time.
Press the power door lock UNLOCK button one time to command the RAP module to toggle the autolock/relock feature On or OFF.
Press the power door lock LOCK button once to enter the command.
Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position to exit the enable/disable mode.

It took me several tries to get it to work (pressing the correct button helps), but now the auto lock feature is disabled.

 

Thanks for the update, sorta rings a bell.
Think FORScan would be a tad easier 😝