Door Locks Issue

My driver side door has a bad gear grinding noise when you press the lock button. The door still unlocks but it doesn't lock anymore. I pulled the door panel off and it seems like its the actuator. I just wanted to see if anyone else had this same issue or can confirm that it is indeed the actuator before I go pick the part up and replace it.

also, on a side note, has anyone had issues with range on the actual key lock? Mine is really short, you have to be standing pretty much right next to the truck.

Thanks for the help!