Car Door Lock Repairs
The car's door lock is an important element of its overall security. If the lock on your car's door is broken or not functioning properly, it needs to be repaired by an expert.
Some car door locks can be fixed by mechanics. For example, a broken key. The most frequent issues can be fixed by a locksmith.
Wiring Problems
When you hit the lock button on your key fob it sends a signal to a solenoid inside your car door. The solenoid transforms the electronic signal into mechanical action which is in this case, moving a rod made of steel, which used to require the turning of a real key in the traditional lock. If the solenoid fails it will be difficult to open the door of your car.
Even the most basic power door lock is composed of a variety of interconnected parts. The electrical connection that relays instructions to unlock and lock the actuator may fail due to many reasons.
Fuses are among the most common electrical problems in cars. The power door lock fuse may have failed to blow. Go through your owner's manual to find an illustration that can assist you in identifying the fuse that is responsible to blow, then replace it and try the door lock again.
The mechanical part of your door lock is also susceptible to wear and wear and tear. It is a complex assembly of cables, gears, and a motor that can fail or be misaligned. The latch itself can also be damaged by physical damage, a failed attempt to open the lock or the regular use that all automotive components have to endure.
It's good to know that most of the common problems associated with your door locks are easily fixed without taking your vehicle to a garage. You can identify the issue with a voltmeter, and also inspect and repair any wiring that might be causing the problem. Regular inspections and lubricating the door lock components can help to prevent wear and tears. Consult a professional if still experiencing issues with your power door lock. A specialist in car repairs has the equipment and know-how to fix the issue quickly and efficiently. In most cases, your warranty from the manufacturer will cover the repair. In some instances the broken lock may be too far gone and you'll have to replace the actuator or the entire door latch mechanism.
Stuck Latch
A stuck latch is among the most common causes for the door lock to fail. When this happens, it indicates that the metal latch isn't slipping into the hole of the strike plate in a proper manner and this creates friction between the two. This could be due to various factors, such as the expansion of wood or moisture. This issue can be solved with some simple troubleshooting.
Check to see if it's the latch and not the handle or the keyed cylinder. If it is the latch, you could try a few different options to fix the issue. You can start with a screwdriver and push the latch into its final position. This is more convenient than using a credit card, as the screwdriver can fit in the space in which the latch is.
You may also want to lubricate the latch. This is a simple fix you can make with some WD-40. You can use the straw that comes with the can to spray the lubricant into the latch. After you've completed this, you should be able feel the latch move and loosen.
If locks repair isn't able to work, you can try using needle-nose pliers and then jiggle the mechanism. This could help break up any rust that is causing the latch to not fall into place properly. If the pliers don't work, you may have to replace the latch.
The latch may be stuck due to structural damage. A constant slamming on the door could cause warping and damage parts of the mechanism, particularly the rods of connecting metal that are responsible for the latch's movement. This could be a problem which requires the assistance of an expert.
Lock Cylinder
The lock cylinder is where the keys go to unlock the door or trunk. It's also the place where a lot of wear and tear could occur. If your car's doors aren't locking, the cylinder may be blocked and require lubrication to fix the problem. To lubricate your cylinder, first spray some brake cleaner into it to eliminate any dirt or grime. Put a thin strip, like white grease, of lubricant into the keyhole. You could also use WD-40 which comes with an extended red straw that which you can insert directly into the keyhole. You can spray more fluid into the hole and then turn the key around a few times. This will ensure that everything is oil-free.
The pin tumblers in the cylinder can also snap, if the notches on your keys have worn or aren't at the correct height or position to cause them to move upwards and downward. This creates a gap between upper and lower pins that stop the cylinders moving when they are inserted into the trunk or door lock. This could be a major issue as you'll not be able to open your vehicle. It is also necessary to replace the cylinder.
It's not difficult to fix a locked cylinder that is stuck. There's typically a screw that holds the cylinder in place and you can take it off it with a screwdriver. Once you've removed the screw put it away in a safe location so that you don't lose it. Then, insert the key and switch it to the ACC RUN, ACC START position, according to the repair instructions for your specific vehicle. After you've done this, remove the key and you'll be in a position to pull the cylinder that was previously in the lock housing.
The only thing harder than lubricating the lock cylinder is getting it out of your vehicle. To do this, you'll have to take off the door panel and perhaps other covers or panels. Then, you need to remove the screw that holds the cylinder in place. Then, you'll need an awl or awl to remove the cylinder from its lock housing.
Lost Keys
It's a scary feeling when you reach in your purse or pocket only to realize that your keys are not there. This is why it's important to have an extra key on hand at all moments, and to keep it in a place where you or someone else will be in a position to retrieve it when required. It wasn't long ago that losing or losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could simply call roadside assistance or a locksmith to open your door for you. The keys for modern cars are more expensive and complex.
There are a variety of different ways to get back into your vehicle once you've locked your keys inside, but be cautious because some methods aren't safe. If you have a pet or child that is locked inside your car, you should not try to break the windows to release them. This is dangerous and could cause further damage to the vehicle. Also, if you don't have a slim jim, you shouldn't try to pick your car's lock using screwdrivers or pliers because this can also cause further damage.
Another way to ensure that you don't lock your keys inside the car is to have a locksmith create you a spare key that will be readily accessible at all times. The locksmith can place it in a location that you, or someone else you are confident in, will be able to locate. You should always keep the spare key in your car to allow quick access to your car if necessary.
If you lose your key and it's a different model with chip, a locksmith could have to open your vehicle and rekey your locks, or create a new key. This is a much more complex process that can cost you hundreds of dollars. If you can find an online replacement chipped key, you might be able save money by hiring a professional to install it for you.