Are You Getting The Most The Use Of Your Door Lock Car Repair?
How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
You can use lockspicks or a key opener to help. You can also spray linseed or penetrating oils into the lock in order to lubricate and make it move freely again.
However, it is not a project for the home-owner who isn't a professional, and it is best left to a licensed, certified locksmith. Here are four car door lock problems that they can fix:
Power door locks don't work
Door locks with power are useful however, they also bring more complex mechanisms into the vehicle. This means that there are plenty of possibilities for things to go wrong, as well. If the door lock actuator isn't working it could be a serious issue that requires professional help to fix. Before calling a professional try a few simple ways to troubleshoot.
The first thing to check is the battery inside your key fob. If the battery is drained or is close to dying, it could cause the locks to not work. Replacing the battery is a affordable and simple solution to this issue.
A defective power actuator could be a problem. This is a frequent issue and is typically straightforward to identify. You can test with a multimeter whether the power is working or not. If power is present, but the actuator doesn't respond when you press the button for locking doors, then it could be time to replace the actuator.
It is also possible cleaning the contacts inside the door lock actuator. It's a bit more complicated than cleaning a switch, however it usually is successful. To accomplish this, you'll need to remove the actuator from the door's panel and then take it apart. Unscrew the bolts that join the exterior portion of the lock body together, and then remove the entire face of the lock actuator.
After you have removed the actuator take care not to harm the rod that connects it to the locking mechanism. Two bolts are usually located in the interior of the doors that house the rod. Make sure to take them out as well. Once the rod is disconnected, you can inspect the latch and ensure that it is properly aligned to the locking post.
If it's not possible, you can utilize a thin, long object to place between the lock and the door panel. This will release the locking mechanism, so you can open the door by hand.
The key fob isn't working.
If your car's key fob isn't working, it can be a frustrating experience. However, there are some ways to make it work again. First, you can try changing the battery. This is a straightforward step that can save you the cost of replacing the entire fob. YouTube offers a variety of useful videos that help you accomplish this in a couple of easy steps.
If this doesn't help you, you might need to reprogram the fob. In most cases, this should be done by an expert. It's not easy because newer cars include security features that must be configured correctly.
Your fob could also be damaged. Water, physical force or scratches on the circuit may cause damage. This type of damage is typically not visible and can only be detected by opening the fob up to look inside. You can look for any issues by inspecting the fob for indications of damage, including cracks in the circuit board, tiny electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit board or buttons that are not in good condition. Try to open the fob and remove the battery for a closer inspection of the connections. It is possible to pry the fobs apart with a flathead, but some require specialized tools and equipment available at the dealership.
If the fob isn't working, you can try opening your car's doors using the physical key. If your physical key does not unlock your car, you might need to call an expert locksmith for more extensive repairs or visit a service center.
A malfunctioning ignition cylinder may be the reason for your key fob not turning on or even starting your vehicle. This is typically a very expensive fix, so it's best left to an expert. If the key fob works with the door locks, it should be possible to start the vehicle through the inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed.
If your lock does not turn at all despite trying to insert the key, there is likely something jamming the mechanism. It could be as simple matter of the tumblers being clogged with dirt or rust. It could be that the pins inside are stuck in an unintentionally raised position. The first thing to do is to lubricate the mechanism of the lock. Spray a dry lubricant like RP7 spray or graphite aerosol, into the keyway. Insert the key a couple of times to remove any debris stuck in the lock cylinder. This will also lubricate and protect the mechanism.
You can also use brake cleaning fluid to lubricate lock cylinder parts and to remove any rust or grime that may be blocking the tumblers. You can purchase brake cleaning fluid from most auto store or home improvement stores. Be sure to not make use of oil-based products like WD-40 as they will continue to clog the mechanism over time.
Another common problem that can cause your door locks to get jammed is the fact that the door frame has shifted over time due to temperature and weather changes. This could cause the latch or deadbolt on the door to not align with the hole in the frame of the door. This problem can be easily fixed by tightening hinges and reinstalling damaged or stripped screws.
It is a good idea to check the condition of your door locks on a regular basis. This will help prevent them from being damaged or jammed, which will save your time and money by not having to contact a locksmith. Do not hesitate to contact your local mechanic of choice when you discover an unlocked or broken door lock. They will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action. Whether you are seeking an easy solution to your power doors or a more significant issue, they'll be happy to help!
The lock is stuck
Locks stuck in the middle can be quite frustrating However, they are usually an unavoidable part to owning a car. If the lock is stuck in an unlocked position, or simply won't turn at all, you're going be looking to fix it sooner rather than later, before your problem worsens. Fortunately, there are a few quick and easy fixes that can help get you out of this difficult situation.
Begin by looking at the lock to find out what's preventing its operation. Sometimes, car lock repair shop near me may be stuck in the lock or a screw can become loose. You can fix either of these issues by cleaning the lock or tightening the screws. You could also try to straighten or fix the ball inside your lock, if they're damaged or have become warped from prolonged use.
A damaged lock could be the cause of a jammed lock. It won't respond to the jiggling. If your lock isn't turning when you twist the knob, it's likely time to replace it. Also, ensure that it's properly keyed to your other doors.
If your lock is stuck and no amount of moving it around, spraying lubricant or changing the knob doesn't seem to be able to solve the problem, you'll likely need to contact locksmith assistance. They have the skills and tools to safely get rid of the lock that is stuck without causing any additional damage to your door or car.
In a few cases the lock's cylinder may be damaged. This could happen if the lock was forced open in the past or when there was an issue with the lock itself that wasn't repaired or replaced. It's a good idea to examine your cylinder on a regular basis for signs of wear or corrosion and replace it when necessary. This will ensure that your car is as safe as it can be. If the lock cylinder is damaged or broken it could create a risk of serious danger to you and your passengers. Be sure to fix any damaged cylinders as quickly as you can.