24 Hours To Improve Repair Car Lock
How to Repair Car Lock Actuator
If your power door lock isn't responding when you press the lock button on your key fob, it may be an indication of a damaged actuator. In this instance, lubricating it will usually fix the problem.
However, it is best to talk to an expert car locksmith.
Unlocking the door
Getting locked out of the car is a frustrating experience however there are several things you can do to get back inside. If you have roadside assistance through AAA or another provider they can send a locksmith, however you may also be able to return to your vehicle using DIY tools and methods. These methods work best on cars with doors that have power locks. They can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest or using a keychain.
This method requires a straightened out wire hanger that has an end with a hook or a long, solid tool which won't bend when under pressure. It will need to be long enough to reach the door handle or lock button, and it should have a hook at one end to hold the latch inside the door. It will also require pliers as well as long tweezers to manipulate the hanger.
First, you'll have to create a gap between the top of the window frame of your car and the body. Then, slide the rod or hook from the hanger through the opening you have created and then try to slide or depress the door lock flipper or button using it. With a bit of luck the door will then open.
If your car comes with a digital lock, then you'll need to find a method to unlock the doors from inside. You can pull a lever on the inside of the door to open it but first you have to figure out how to get to it. You can make use of a Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever.
In some instances there are instances when none of the above methods will work, and you will have to call a locksmith for help. If that's the case, ensure that you ask what the cost will be before they arrive.
Unblocking the Keyhole
If the lock is jammed due to the key was not fully engaged and the pin was not fully engaged, gently push the tumblers back into their proper position inside the cylinder's internal. This may fix the problem; however, pushing too hard could cause additional damage, and it's best to call locksmiths to address the problem.
Keep the lock lubricated with 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, and then jiggle the key in the hole to distribute the lubricant through the mechanism.
Powdered graphite is another product you should have in your toolbox. It functions as a dry oil lubricant. It allows for smooth movement between metal surfaces without getting rid of grime or dirt, and it's also safe to use on locks that have internal pin tumblers. Try rubbing a few grains of the powder inside the lock to lubricate it and get rid of any gunk that might have built up in the keyhole.
In the end, it's essential to replace the key on a regular basis to keep it in good condition and prevent it from becoming stuck over time. This will help it last longer and perform more efficiently.
If the key still doesn't turn freely or is prone to jamming, the key itself may be worn and requires replacement or a key cut. You can employ 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 an experienced.
If the above suggestions aren't working, you can try to free the key stuck by taking the strike plate out of the door frame, and then filing down the lower lip of the plate to increase the size of the opening in which the key can be inserted. If this doesn't work, it's best to call a locksmith who has the tools required to disassemble a locked car door and solve the issue. They'll have specialized tools designed to enter the locking mechanisms to detach them and will be able to determine why the lock isn't working correctly.
Unfreezing the Lock
With the Polar Vortex bringing cold temperatures and winter storms, frozen lock situations are common. The good news is that there are a few simple ways to free the lock, allowing you to open your car. www.g28carkeys.co.uk to do is to try and remove any large ice chunks that are blocking the lock cylinder from receiving the key. It is crucial to take caution in this process to avoid damaging your car door or lock cylinder.
Another common trick is to pour boiling water onto the lock. While this might work at first however, it can harm your lock over the long haul and likely freeze any moisture that is still in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock or door sensor could also trigger the door sensor to experience a thermal shock. You could also harm the car lock or door with sharp or metal objects.
A better alternative is to heat the key using match or lighter and then insert it into the lock. Heat the key with a lighter or hairdryer to melt the ice that is covering the lock cylinder. This will allow you to turn the key and unlock the door. If you are unable to get the key to enter fully, you can warm it again and try again. You can get rid of ice from your lock by spraying lubricant on the lock or by using a commercial de-icer.
It is a great idea to leave your car parked in the sun and let the sun melt the lock. It may take some time however, it is an inexpensive and easy solution to a lock that is frozen. A de-icer bottle in your car for emergencies like this is also beneficial as the chemicals are able to melt any ice and prevent future freezing.
Replace the Actuator
The actuator is a small motor that drives the lock via a series of gears. It can be controlled by the key inside the door, a remote control or keyless entry, or a central control. It uses a tiny amount of power and is prone to wear out over time. It can wear out and produce the sound of a buzzing or machine gun sound that doesn't stop unless the actuator is replaced.
The majority of people can repair the actuator with basic tools and a bit of patience. The steps might differ between cars since manufacturers build the parts in different ways however the process is the same. First, disconnect the battery to avoid electrical problems during the repair. Then, carefully remove the door panel from the car. Depending on the vehicle you have you may have to take off the window or the regulator in order to access the actuator.
When you remove the panel, you can see the actuator attached to the door latch. Usually the bolts holding it in place can be removed with the help of a screwdriver. The actuator can be removed from its mount. After the new actuator is in place, be sure to connect the connector to the wiring harness. Reconnect the cables and rods to the latch, actuator and door panel.
Replace any clips that may have fallen off during the removal. Make sure that all of the screws are re-tightened to prevent looseness or rattle. Reconnect any wires that were cut off and test the new actuator to see if it functions. Reinstall the door panel, trim piece and battery. Then, run another test. If your doors aren't functioning in the way they should, it may be time to replace the actuator.