A Productive Rant About Repair Car Lock
How to Repair Car Lock Actuator
If your door lock's power isn't responding when you press the lock button on your key fob, it may be an indication of a malfunctioning actuator. In this case the lubrication process will typically fix the problem.
However, it is best to consult with a professional car locksmith.
Unlocking car alarm system
Being locked out of your car can be a traumatic experience There are a variety of options to get back inside. If you are a member of AAA, or another service that offers roadside assistance, they will provide a locksmith you, but you may be able to get back in using some DIY tools and methods. These methods will work best with cars that have power door locks that can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest, or using a keychain.
This method requires a straightened out wire hanger with a hook on one end or a longer, stiff tool which won't bend when under pressure. It must be long enough to reach either the car lock button or door handle. One end should include a hook that can catch the latch. You will also require tools like pliers to grasp the hanger's ends and an extended tweezers to move the hanger.
First, you'll need to create an opening between the window frame and body. Then, you can insert the rod or hook from the hanger through the gap you've created, and try to slide or depress the door lock flipper or button with it. With a bit of luck the door will be opened.
If your car comes with a digital lock then you'll need discover a way to unlock the doors from inside. There is a lever in the door that can be pulled to open it, however you will have to figure out a way to reach it. You can make use of a Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever.
In certain situations some cases, none of these methods will work, and you will have to call a locksmith for help. Ask them how much they will charge before they show up.
Unblocking the Keyhole
If the lock is jammed due to the key was not fully engaged, gently push the pin tumblers back to the proper position within the internal cylinder. This can help fix the issue but pushing too hard can cause additional damage, and it is best to contact locksmiths for this issue.
An effective way to avoid a stuck key is by making sure the lock is lubricated using graphite spray or a silicone-based item. These are better than oil-based products, such as WD-40, which can attract dirt and dust. Apply the product on the lock. Inject and turn the key a few times. Then, jiggle the keys into the hole.
Another useful item to have on hand is powdered graphite, which works like dry fluid. It helps to ensure smooth movement without drawing dirt and grime. It is safe to use with locks with internal pin tumblers. Rub a few grains of the powder inside the lock. This will help to lubricate the lock and get rid of any gunk that might have accumulated around the keyhole.
It is also essential to replace your key on a regular basis to ensure it's in good shape and to keep it from becoming jammed in the future. This will help it last longer and work more efficiently.
If the key is not turning freely or jams easily, it could be worn out and needs to be replaced or replaced. To avoid sticking in the future, you can use a file on the sharp edges of the key teeth. However this is a task best left to professionals.
If the above suggestions do not work, you may try to free the stuck key by removing the strike plate from the door frame and filing down the lower edge of the plate to increase the size of the opening through which the key can be inserted. If this fails then you should contact an expert locksmith who has the necessary tools to disassemble a locked car door and solve the problem. They'll have tools designed to enter the locking mechanisms to disengage them, and they will be able to determine why the lock isn't working correctly.
Unfreezing the Lock
Locks that freeze are common during the Polar Vortex, which brings cold temperatures and winter storms. There are a few easy tricks that you can use to free the lock and unlock your vehicle. The first thing to do is try to chip away any large ice chunks that are blocking the lock cylinder from accepting the key. To avoid damaging the lock cylinder or car door, it is important to be careful when doing this.
Pouring boiling water on the lock is a popular technique. While this might work at first however, it can harm your lock in the long run and likely freeze any moisture that is still in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock or door sensor could also trigger an electrical shock. Using metal or sharp objects to break at the lock or attempt to push the key in could also damage your car door or lock and could lead to an unusable lock.
A better alternative is to heat the key using matches or a lighter and then insert it into the lock. Heat the key with a hairdryer or lighter 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 fully into the lock, warm it up again, and try. You can get rid of ice from your lock by spraying a oil on the lock or by using a commercial de-icer.
A great idea is to leave your car parked in the sun, and let the sun to melt the lock. This may take a while to do but it is an easy and affordable solution for a frozen lock problem. It is advisable to keep a de-icer can in your car for emergencies like this is also beneficial as the chemicals can quickly break down any ice and stop future freezing.
Replacing the Actuator
The actuator is a small motor that powers the lock using a set of gears. It can be controlled by a key in the door or remote control, keyless entry or a central control. It is a low-power device that will get worn out over time. It can wear out and produce a buzzing noise or a machine gun sound that won't stop until the actuator is replaced.
Replacing the actuator is an easy task for people with basic tools and a bit of perseverance. The steps differ between cars, as manufacturers may put together parts in different ways. However, the basic procedure is the same. Disconnect the battery first to avoid electrical problems during the repair. Then carefully remove the door panel from the car. Depending on your vehicle you may have to remove the window or the regulator in order to access the actuator.
Once you've removed the panel you will be able to see the actuator that is attached to the door latch. Usually the bolts that hold the actuator in place can be removed with the help of a screwdriver. The actuator can be removed from its mounting. After the new actuator is in place, carefully reconnect the connector to the wiring harness. Reconnect the cables and rods to the actuator, latch and door panel.
Replace any clips that may have fallen off during removal. Make sure to check every screw to make sure they are securely tightened. This will stop any looseness or rattle. Reconnect any wires that were disconnected and test the new actuator to ensure it functions. If it does, install the door panel as well as the trim piece, and then reconnect the battery and perform another test to ensure that the locks are working as they should be. If your doors don't function as they should then it's time to replace your actuator.