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How to Repair Car Lock Actuator
If your power door locks don't respond when you press the locking button on your keyfob, this could indicate that your actuator is damaged. In this situation, lubricating it will usually fix the problem.
However, it is recommended to speak with a professional car locksmith.
Locking the Door
If you've locked yourself out of your vehicle, it can be a frustrating experience. However there are some things you can try to do to get inside. If you are covered by roadside assistance with AAA or another service they will send a locksmith to you, but you might also be able gain access to your vehicle using DIY tools and techniques. These methods work best with vehicles that have doors that are powered by electricity. These can be opened using the lock button on the armrest, or a keychain.
This method requires a straightened out wire hanger that has hooks on one end or another long, rigid tool which won't bend when under pressure. It should be long enough to reach the car door handle or the lock button, and must include a hook on one end to catch the latch inside the door. You will also need pliers and long tweezers in order to move the hanger.
First, you'll need to create an opening between the window frame and body. Place the rod or hook of the hanger into the gap you created and then try to slide it or press the door lock switch or flipper button with it. The door will open with a bit of luck.
If your car has a digital lock, you'll have to find a way to unlock the door from the inside without knowing the code. You can pull a lever on the inside of the door to unlock it but first you have to find out how to get to it. You can employ the Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever.
In some cases none of the methods above will work, and you'll require a professional locksmith for assistance. Ask them how much they'll charge you prior to their arrival.
Unjamming Keyhole
If the lock is jammed because the key was not fully engaged then gently push the pin tumblers back into their proper position within the cylinder's internal. This could fix the issue However, pushing too hard can cause additional damage, and it is best to contact locksmiths for this problem.
Keep the lock lubricated by using graphite spray, or a silicone based product. These products are superior to oil based products such as WD-40 which can attract dirt and debris. Apply the product to the lock, then insert and turn the key several times, then move the key around into the hole to distribute the lubricant throughout the mechanism.
Powdered graphite is another item that you should keep in your toolbox. It functions as a dry oil lubricant. It helps to ensure smooth movement without getting rid of grime and dirt. It is safe to use with locks that have internal pin tumblers. Try rub a few grains the powder into the lock to lubricate it and remove any gunk that has built up in the keyhole.
It's also important to replace your key on a regular basis to ensure it's in good shape and to ensure it doesn't jam over time. This will also help it last longer and work more efficiently.
If the key is not turning freely or jams easily, it is likely to be worn out and need to be replaced or cut. To avoid sticking in the future, you can use a file to smooth the sharp edges of the key teeth. But this is a task that should be left to an expert.
If the above tips don't work, you can try to get rid of the stuck key by removing the strike plate from the door frame, and then filing down the lower edge of the plate to increase the size of the opening through which the key is inserted. If this fails, call a professional locksmith who will have the tools needed to remove the lock from the door. They'll have specialized tools that can enter the locking mechanisms to disengage them. They will also be able to determine why the lock isn't functioning properly.
Unfreezing the Lock
Locks that are frozen are commonplace during the Polar Vortex, which brings cold temperatures and winter storms. There are a few simple techniques you can employ to free the lock and unlock your vehicle. The first step is to chip away any large chunks of ice that block your lock cylinder. To avoid damaging the cylinder of the lock or the car door, it is important to be careful when doing this.
Another common trick is to pour boiling water on the lock. This might work for a while, but it can damage the lock in the end and then refreeze any moisture in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock cylinder can cause thermal shock that can cause damage to modern electronic components in the lock cylinder and door sensor. Using metal or sharp objects to break the lock or try to force the key into it can also cause damage to your car's door or lock and could potentially result in breaking the lock.
It is recommended to heat the key by using an igniter or match, and then insert it into the lock. It is best to heat the key using a lighter or hairdryer to melt the ice that is covering the lock cylinder. This will enable you to turn the key and unlock the door. If trunk lock repair 're not able to get the key to go in all the way, simply heat it up again and try again. You can get rid of ice from your lock by spraying a lubricant on the lock or by using a commercial de-icer.
Another great idea is to place your car in the sun and let the sun help to melt the lock. It might take a while, but this is an inexpensive and simple solution to a locked that has frozen. It is advisable to keep a de-icer can in your car for an emergency such as this is also beneficial as the chemicals can quickly dissolve any ice and prevent future freezing.
Replace the Actuator
The actuator is the tiny motor that moves the lock through a set of gears. It can be controlled by a key in the door, a remote control or keyless entry central control. It uses a very small amount of power to operate and will wear out over time. When it is worn out it will make a buzzing or machine gun sound that won't stop until the actuator is replaced.
Replacing the actuator is an easy task for the majority of people with basic tools and a bit of patience. The steps will vary between vehicles, as manufacturers might make parts in different ways. But the basic process remains the same. First disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues from arising during the repair. Then, carefully remove the door panel from the. Depending on the model, you may also need to remove the regulator and/or window in order to access the actuator.
Once you have removed the panel, you'll be visible the actuator attached to the door latch. The bolts holding it in place will usually be undone with a screwdriver. The actuator is then removed from its mount. After the new one is in place, carefully reinstall the connector that goes to the wiring harness. Once that is reconnected, reconnect any rods or cables that are attached to the latch and actuator and put the door panel back in place.
Once the trim panel is reinstalled, it is recommended to replace any clips that fell off during the removal. Double check all screws to ensure that they are properly tightened. This will prevent any rattle or looseness. Reconnect any wires that were cut off and test the new actuator to ensure it works. If it does, reinstall the door panel and trim piece, then reconnect the battery and run a second test to ensure that the locks are functioning exactly as they should. If your doors aren't functioning in the way they should it could be time to replace your actuator.