A Provocative Remark About Repair Car Lock

How to Repair Car Lock Actuator

If your door lock's power does not respond when you press the lock button on your key fob, it could be the result of a malfunctioning actuator. In this instance, lubricating it will usually fix the problem.

It is, however, recommended to speak with a professional car locksmith.

Locking the Door

If you've locked yourself out of your car, it can be a difficult experience. However, there are some things you can do to get inside. If you have roadside assistance through AAA or another service, they can send a locksmith, but you may also be able to get back into your vehicle with DIY tools and techniques. These methods work best for cars with doors that are powered by electricity. These can be opened by pressing the lock button that is located on the armrest or a keychain.

To make this method work you'll need an electrical wire hanger that is straightened out and turned into a hook on one end, or other long, rigid tool that will not break under pressure. It should be long enough to reach either the button for your car lock or door handle. The other end should have a hook to catch the latch. You will also need a tool such as pliers to grasp the hanger's ends and a pair of tweezers for manipulating the hanger.

First, you'll need to create a space between the window frame and the body. Put the rod or hook of the hanger into the gap you created and then try to slide or push the door lock flipper button or switch using it. The door will open with a bit of luck.

If your vehicle has a digital lock, you will need to find a way to unlock the door from the inside without knowing the code. You can pull a lever located on the inside of the door to unlock it however, you must first to know how to access it. A Slim Jim can be used for this purpose, or a similar long tool that can be put into the space between the door and the window.

In certain situations, none of the above methods will work, and you will need to call an expert locksmith. Ask them about the price they will charge before they arrive.

Unblocking the Keyhole

If the lock is stuck due to the key was inserted before it was fully engaged and locked, try gently pushing the pin tumblers back into their correct alignment in the internal cylinder. It may solve the problem However, pushing too hard can cause more damage. In this instance, it is best to seek out an expert locksmith.

Keep the lock lubricated with graphite spray or a silicone based product. They are superior to products based on oil, like WD-40 which can attract dirt and debris. Apply the product to the lock, insert and turn the key several times, and then play around with the key into the hole to distribute the lubricant throughout the mechanism.

Powdered graphite is another product you should have in your toolbox. It functions as a dry lubricant. It encourages smooth movement between metal surfaces without getting rid of grime or dirt, and is safe to use on locks that have internal pin tumblers. Rub a few grains of the powder inside the lock. This will lubricate the lock and remove any gunk that might have built up around the keyhole.

It's also important to replace your key on a regular basis to ensure it stays in good shape and to keep it from becoming jammed over time. This will help it last longer and work more efficiently.

If the key still isn't turning freely or is prone to jamming, the key itself may be worn out and require replacement or a key recut. You can make use of a file to smooth the sharp points on the key teeth to avoid any further sticking but this is a job best left to an experienced.

If the suggestions above aren't working, you can try to free the stuck key by removing the strike plate from 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 is recommended to contact a locksmith who has the necessary tools to disassemble a locked car door and fix the problem. They'll have the tools to remove the locking mechanisms and will be able determine what is causing the lock to not function correctly.

Unfreezing the Lock

Locks that freeze are common during the Polar Vortex, which brings cold temperatures and winter storms. The good news is that there are a few simple ways to free the lock to open your car. First, try chipping away any large chunks of ice that block your lock's cylinder. To avoid damaging the lock cylinder or car door, it is essential to take care in this process.

Pouring boiling water over the lock is a popular technique. While this may work initially but it could damage your lock over the long term and will likely re-freeze any moisture which remains in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock or door sensor could also trigger a thermal shock. Using metal or sharp objects to break the lock or force the key in can also damage your car door or lock, and could lead to a broken lock.

It is best to heat the key using a lighter or a match, and then insert it in the lock. Heat the key with a hairdryer or lighter to melt the ice coating the lock cylinder. This will make it easier to turn the key and unlock the door. If you are unable to get the key in completely into the lock, warm it up again, and try. Using commercial de-icer on your key or spraying the lock with grease can help remove any ice that has formed on the lock.

It is a great idea to leave your car parked in the sun, and let the sun help to melt the lock. It can take some time to accomplish, but it's an easy and affordable solution to a locked that is frozen problem.  car lock replacement -icer bottle in your car for emergencies like this is also an excellent idea since the chemicals are able to dissolve any ice, and will prevent further 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, keyless entry or a central control. It requires a small amount of power and can get worn out over time. If it wears out, it will create a buzzing or machine gun noise that will continue to reverberate until the actuator is replaced.

Replacing the actuator can be an easy task for the majority of people using a basic tool and a bit of perseverance. The steps vary from car to vehicles, as manufacturers might make parts in different ways. But the basic procedure is the same. Disconnect the battery first to avoid electrical issues during the repair. Remove the door panel with care from the car. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove either the window or the regulator to access the actuator.

When you remove the panel, you can observe the actuator attached to the door latch. Usually the bolts that hold it in place can be removed with the help of a screwdriver. The actuator can be removed from its mount. When the new actuator is in place, carefully reinstall the connector that goes to the wiring harness. Once that is reconnected connect any cables or rods connected to the latch and actuator and then put the door panel back into place.

Replace any clips that may have fallen off during the removal. Verify 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 make sure it is working. If it does, install the door panel and the trim piece, then reconnect the battery and run a second test to ensure that the locks are operating exactly as they should. If your doors aren't functioning as they should, it might be time to replace your actuator.