10 Repair Car Lock Meetups You Should Attend
How to Repair Car Lock Actuator
If your power door lock fails to respond when you press the lock button on your key fob, it may be the result of a fried actuator. In such a case, you can usually fix it by lubricating your actuator.
It is, however, recommended to talk to an experienced car locksmith.
Locking the door
Locked out of the car can be a traumatic experience however there are several things you can do to get back inside. If you are covered by roadside assistance with AAA or another company they can send a locksmith, however you could also get back into your vehicle using DIY tools and techniques. These methods be most effective on vehicles with doors that have power locks. They can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest or using the keychain.
For this method, you will need a wire hanger, which is straightened out and made into a hook at one end, or some other long, rigid device that won't break under pressure. It must be long enough to reach either the car lock button or door handle. One end should have a hook to catch the latch. Also, you will require a tool such as pliers to hold the hanger's ends and an extended tweezers to manipulate it.
You will first have to make a space between the top of the window frame of your car and the body. Place the rod or hook of the hanger into the gap you created and then try to slide or press the door lock flipper button or switch using it. With a little luck, the door will open.
If your vehicle has a digital lock, you'll have to figure out a way to unlock the door from the inside without knowing the code. There is a lever inside the door that can be pulled to unlock it, but you'll need to find a way to reach it. A Slim Jim can be used to accomplish this or a similar tool that can be put into the gap between the door and the window.
In some instances, none of the methods above will work and you will require an expert locksmith for help. Ask them what they'll charge you before they show up.
Unjamming the Keyhole
If the lock is stuck because the key was not inserted until it was fully engaged Try gently pushing the pin tumblers back into their proper position in the internal cylinder. This can help fix the issue; however, pushing too hard could cause additional damage, and it is best to contact locksmiths for this problem.
A good way to prevent stuck keys is by keeping the lock lubricated with graphite spray or a silicone-based product. They are superior to oils-based products, like WD-40, which tend to attract more dirt and other debris. Apply the product on the lock. Turn the key several times. Then jiggle the keys inside the hole.
Powdered graphite is another item that you should keep in your toolbox. It acts as a dry oil lubricant. It allows for smooth movement, without getting rid of grime and dirt. It is safe to use on locks that have internal pin tumblers. Rub some grains of powder inside the lock. This will lubricate the lock and eliminate any gunk that may have accumulated around the keyhole.
It is also essential to replace your key frequently to ensure that it is in good condition and to prevent it from jamming over time. This will also help it last longer and perform more efficiently.
If the key still isn't turning freely or is prone to jamming it could be worn out and require replacement or a key cut. You can make use of a file to smooth out the sharp edges of the key teeth to avoid any further sticking, but this is a job best left to professionals.
If the suggestions above don't work, you can try to get rid of the key stuck on by removing strike plate from the door frame. You'll have to sand down the lower lip to increase the size opening where the key is put in. If this doesn't work, you should seek out a professional locksmith who has the tools required to disassemble the locked car door. They will have tools to disengage the locking mechanisms and will be in a position to determine the reason why the lock doesn't work properly.
Unfreezing the Lock
With the Polar Vortex bringing cold temperatures and winter storms, frozen lock situations are quite common. There are a few easy methods you can use to free the lock and then open your vehicle. The first step is to chip away any large chunks of ice that block your lock cylinder. To avoid damaging the lock cylinder or door, it is important to be careful during this process.
Pouring boiling water on the lock is a common technique. It may work initially, but it can damage the lock in the long run and refreeze any moisture left in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water on your lock can cause thermal shock that can cut off modern electronic components in the lock cylinder and door sensor. Using sharp or metal objects to break the lock or try to push the key in could cause damage to your car's door or lock and could possibly cause an unusable lock.
A better option is to heat the key with match or lighter and then insert it into the lock. The key can be heated using lighter or a hairdryer to melt the ice coating the lock cylinder. This will allow you to turn the key and unlock the door. If you're not able to get the key in all the way, simply heat it up again and try again. You can get rid of ice from your lock by spraying grease on the lock, or using a commercial deicer.
Another idea is to place your car in the sun and let the sun help melt the lock. It could take a while, but this is an easy and inexpensive solution to a lock that is frozen. It is advisable to keep a de-icer can in your car for times like this is a good idea as the chemicals will quickly break down any ice and stop future freezing.
Replacing the Actuator
The actuator is a tiny motor that drives the lock through a series of gears. It can be activated by the key inside the door, a remote control or keyless entry central control. It requires a small amount of power and is prone to wear out over time. It is prone to be worn out and create the sound of a buzzing or machine gun sound that doesn't stop until the actuator is replaced.
Most people can replace the actuator with basic tools and a bit of patience. The steps differ between vehicles, as manufacturers might put together parts in different ways. But the basic procedure is the same. First, disconnect door lock repair & services near me to prevent electrical issues from arising during the repair. Remove the door panel with care from the vehicle. Depending on your vehicle you may have to remove the window or the regulator to gain access to the actuator.
After removing the panel you can see the actuator that is attached to the door latch. Usually the bolts that hold it in place can be removed with the aid of a screwdriver. The actuator can then be pulled out of its mount. Once the new actuator has been put in place, carefully reconnect the connector to the wiring harness. Connect the rods and cables to the actuator, latch and door panel.
Once the trim panel is reinstalled, you must replace any clips that fell off during the removal. Check the screws to ensure they are tightened properly. This will avoid any looseness or rattle. Reconnect all wires that were disconnected and test the actuator to confirm it is working. Reinstall the door panel, trim piece and battery. Then, perform another test. If your doors aren't working as they should, it might be time to replace the actuator.