How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
Utilizing a lock pick that is specialized or a key opener could aid. You can also spray linseed or penetrating oils into the lock in order to lubricate and make it move again freely.
However, it is not a task for the casual homeowner, and it is best left to a licensed, certified locksmith. Here are four typical door lock car repair problems that they'll fix for you:
Power door locks don't work
Door locks with power offer excellent convenience, but they add a lot of more complicated mechanisms to the car. This means there are many possibilities for things to go wrong, too. If the door lock actuator doesn't work, it could be a major issue that requires professional assistance. Before calling a professional try a few simple troubleshooting techniques.
The first thing to check is the battery inside your key fob. If the battery is dead or near death it could cause the locks to not work. Replacing the battery is a relatively easy and affordable solution to this issue.
A faulty power actuator is another possible problem. This is a common problem that is generally simple to determine. You can use a multimeter to check whether the power is reaching or not. If the power is there however the actuator does not respond when you hit the door lock button then it could be time to replace the actuator.
You can also clean the contacts on the door lock actuator. This is a little more involved than simply cleaning a switch but is often enough to solve the problem. To do this you will need to remove the actuator and disassemble it. There are usually bolts that hold the exterior of the body of the lock together, so unscrew them and then take out 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 found in the interior of the doors that hold the rod. Make sure to remove them too. Once the rod is unplugged it is possible to open the door and examine the latch to make sure it's properly aligned with the locking post.
If not, insert a thin, long object between the lock and the door panel. This should release any locking mechanism and you can unlock your door by hand.
The key fob isn't working.
If your car key fob isn't working properly, it can be a frustrating experience. There are several things you can try to get it working again. First, you must replace the battery. This simple change can save you from having to buy a new fob. There are a lot of helpful YouTube videos that show you how to do this in just a few easy steps.
If this doesn't work, you may need to re-program your fob. In the majority of cases, this can be handled by an expert. Suggested Online site can be difficult, as newer cars have security features that must be properly configured.
Your fob could also be damaged. Physical force, water or scratches on the circuit could cause damage. This damage is often not obvious and can only be detected by opening the fob to examine the inside. You can check for these issues by looking at the fob for signs of damage, such as 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. You can also try to open the fob and remove the battery for a closer look at the connections. Using a flathead screwdriver, you can usually remove most fobs to gain access to the battery but some require more specialized tools or equipment that is only available at the dealership of your car.
You can also try using the physical key to open your car doors If the fob isn't working. If the physical key can't unlock your car, it may be time to contact an locksmith or go to an authorized service center for more extensive repair.
If the key fob won't turn on or turn your car on It could be due to a malfunctioning ignition cylinder. This is usually a very expensive fix, and it's best left to an expert. However, if the key fob is working fine with the door locks, it should be capable of starting the car using its inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed.
If you're unable to turn the lock at all, it is likely that something is blocking the mechanism. It could be a simple matter of the tumblers being blocked by dirt or rust. It could be that the pins inside are stuck in an elevated position. The first step is to lubricate the lock mechanism. Spray a dry lubricant like RP7 or graphite spray into the keyway and then insert the key a few times to release any debris that has gotten stuck in the lock cylinder. This will also lubricate and protect the mechanism.
You can also make use of brake cleaning fluid to help lubricate the parts of a lock cylinder and to get rid of any grime or rust that might be blocking the tumblers. You can purchase brake cleaning fluid at most auto store or home improvement stores. You should avoid using products containing oil, such as WD-40 as they will clog the brake mechanism over time.
Another issue that can cause your door locks to get jammed is that the frame of the door has moved in time due to temperature and weather fluctuations. This can cause the latch or deadbolt on the door to no longer align properly with the hole in the frame of the door. This problem is easily solved by tightening hinges, and replacing broken or damaged screws.
Checking the condition regularly of your locks is an excellent idea to check the condition of your locks regularly. This will prevent them from becoming jammed or broken and help you avoid the hassle and expense of calling a locksmith assistance. Do not hesitate to contact your local mechanic of choice when you discover damaged or locked door lock. They'll be able to identify the issue quickly and recommend the best course. No matter if you're seeking an easy solution to your power doors or a more significant problem, they will be glad to assist!
The lock is jammed.
Locks that are stuck are a frustrating, but often unavoidable part of owning a car. Whether the lock is stuck in an unlocked position, or doesn't turn at all, you're going be looking to fix it sooner rather than later, before your problem worsens. There are quick and easy solutions to aid you in getting out of this difficult situation.
Begin by looking over the lock to determine what is preventing its operation. Sometimes a foreign object can get caught in the lock, or a screw has become loose. If either of these problems is the case, you might be able to fix the issue by cleaning the lock, or tightening the screw. You can also straighten or fix the ball bearings of your lock if they are damaged or warped because of repeated use.
A worn-out lock could be the reason for a jammed lock. It will not respond to jiggling. If your lock has stopped turning when you jiggle the knob, it's time to replace it and make sure it is keyed correctly with your other doors.
If your lock is stuck and nothing wriggling, spraying lubricant, or changing the knob doesn't seem to help, you will likely need to contact an expert locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to safely get rid of a lock that's stuck without causing damage to your vehicle or door.
Sometimes, the cylinder of the lock may be damaged. This could happen when the lock was forced open prior to the incident, or if a lock problem was not fixed. It is recommended to check your cylinder regularly for signs of wear or corrosion, and replace it as required. This will help ensure that your car is as safe as it can be. If the lock cylinder is cracked or damaged it could pose dangerous for your passengers and you. Be sure to fix any damaged cylinders as quickly as you can.