Some time ago, the door lock actuator on my 2007 Toyota Yaris driver's side door stopped working. When I would press unlock or lock buttons on the keyfob or in the car, the door lock wouldn't work. I've spent the last few years using the key to open my door like a caveman. I just kept putting it off because the actuator is nearly $300 new.
I finally decided to fix it myself with some research from multiple online forums. The problem I always found with all of their tutorials is poor-quality (or a lack of) video or pictures showing the disassembly process. I hope this fills that gap.
This method works for the Yaris hatchback and sedan.
This is apparently a very common problem with Toyotas (especially the Lexus ISs and GSs). Most of the methods used here are interchangeable between many of their models.
The driver's side door lock actuator part number for this car from Toyota is 69040-47060. The passenger side is 69030-52470. In case there are some international viewers, this is a LHD vehicle.
You can also opt to replace the electric motor rather than removing the brush residue from the rotor. The Yaris actuator uses a 20mm flat shaft electric motor, part# FC-280PC-22125. Make sure it says 20mm flat shaft (or D shaft). Mabuchi may use one part number for long or short shaft, and round or flat shaft motors so you must to be diligent.