Car Door Lock Repairs
The door lock of your car is an essential element of the vehicle's overall security. If the door lock on your vehicle is damaged or isn't working properly, you should get it repaired by a professional.
There are some door locks for cars that can be repaired by a mechanic for instance, a broken key. The most common issues can be fixed by locksmiths.
Wiring Problems
When you push the lock button on your key fob, it sends an electronic signal to a solenoid in the door of your car. The solenoid converts the electronic signal into a mechanical action. In this instance it is moving a steel rod which used to require a key to turn in the traditional car lock. If the solenoid fails to function, it may be difficult to open the door of your car.
The electrical system in your car has an intricate wiring system that runs through the exterior and interior of your vehicle. even the simplest power door locks are made up of many interconnected components. The electrical connection that relays instructions to unlock and lock the actuator may fail due to various reasons.
Fuses are among the most frequently encountered electrical issues that car owners face and the fuse that is connected to your power door locks may have failed. You can find a diagram in the owner's manual which will help you identify which fuse is responsible. Replace the fuse and then lock your door once more.
The mechanical part of your power door locks is also susceptible to wear and tear. It is a complicated assembly of gears and cables, and a motor that can malfunction or get unbalanced. The latch itself can also be damaged due to physical damage or failure to jimmy the lock open or the regular use that all automotive components must endure.
It's good to know that the majority of the common problems that arise with your door locks powered by electricity can be resolved without having to take your vehicle to a repair shop. You can identify the issue with a voltmeter, as well as inspect and fix any wiring that could be causing the problem. Conducting regular inspections and making sure that your door lock components are lubricated can help prevent wear and tear. If you're still having trouble with your power door locks call a professional for assistance. A professional car mechanic will have the necessary tools and experience to complete the repair quickly. In many cases, the repair will be covered under your manufacturer warranty. In certain cases, your broken lock will be beyond repair and you will need to replace the actuator or the entire mechanism for the door latch.
Stuck Latch
A stuck latch is the most frequent reason behind failure of a door lock. If this happens, it means that the latch isn't slipping into the the strike plate properly and this creates friction between the two. This can be caused by a number of factors, including the expansion of wood or moisture. You should be able to solve this issue with some simple troubleshooting.
Examine the latch to determine if it's the latch and not the handle or keyed cylinder. If it is the latch, then you can try a couple of different options to fix it. You can begin with a screwdriver and push the latch into its final position. This is less difficult than trying to use credit cards as the screwdriver is able to fit in the space the latch is placed in.
You may also want to grease the latch. You can fix this problem with WD-40. You can make use of the straw that comes with the can to spray the lubricant into the latch. Once you have done this you should be able to feel the latch move and loosen.
If the lubricant does not work, then you could try using needle-nose pliers to jiggle the mechanism back and forward. This could help break up any rust that's causing the latch to not drop into place properly. If the pliers don't work then you may need to replace the latch completely.
Structural damage can also cause the latch to become stuck. The repeated slamming of the door can warp and cause damage to parts of the mechanism, particularly the rods of connecting metal which are responsible for the latch's movement. This could be a cause for concern that requires the help of a professional.
Lock Cylinder
The lock cylinder is where you insert your keys to open a door or trunk. It's the place where a lot of wear and tear could occur. If you're having trouble with your car doors not locking it could be because the cylinder is jammed, and needs to be lubricated to resolve the problem. To lubricate the cylinder, first spray some brake cleaner in it to get rid of any dirt or grime. Then, you can stick a thin piece of lubricant like white grease into the keyhole. You can also make use of WD-40 which comes with a long, thin straw in red that you can stick straight into the keyhole. Spray some fluid into the hole and then turn the key around a few times. This will ensure that everything is oil-free.
The pin tumblers within the cylinder could also snap if the notches on your keys have worn or aren't at the right height or in the correct position to cause them to move up and downward. This creates gaps between the pins on the upper and lower that prevents the cylinder from moving when it is inserted into the door or trunk lock. This could be a huge issue, since you will not be able open your vehicle. You will also need to replace the cylinder.
A locked cylinder that is damaged could be a nightmare to deal with, but it's actually pretty easy. There's typically a screw that holds the cylinder and you can take it off it with an screwdriver. Once you've removed the screw, store it safely so that you don't lose it. Then insert the key and turn it to the ACC RUN, ACC START position, based on the repair instructions specific to your vehicle. Once you've done this, take out the key, and you should be in a position to pull the old cylinder from the lock housing.
The most difficult thing about oiling your lock's cylinder getting it removed from your vehicle. To do this, you'll have to remove the door panel (and possibly some other covers or panels) and then take off the screw that holds the cylinder in place. Then you'll need to use a pick or awl pry the cylinder out of its lock housing.
Lost Keys
It's a frightening feeling when you reach into your purse or pocket only to realize that your keys aren't there. That's why it is so important to have an extra key on hand at all times, and to store it in a place where you or someone else is capable of retrieving it if needed. In the past the possibility of losing or misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. Calling roadside assistance or an expert locksmith to open your car door was not a big deal. The keys for modern cars are more expensive and complex.
There are many ways you can try to gain entry into your car if you put your keys in it, but you should always use caution as some methods aren't always secure. For instance, if you have a small child or pet locked in the car with you, you should never try to break the window to let them out because this is risky and can cause further damage to your vehicle. If you don't have a slim Jim, don't attempt to open the lock of your car with screwsdrivers or pliers, because this could cause further damage.
Another way to ensure that you don't lock your keys in your car is to have a locksmith create you a spare that will be always accessible. The locksmith can install it in a spot that you, or a person you trust, can easily find. Always keep fix car lock in your possession in order to quickly gain access your vehicle if needed.
In some cases, when you've lost your key and it's a newer model that has chip inside, a professional locksmith may require you to open your vehicle and rekey your locks or create a new key from scratch. This is a more complex process that can cost you hundreds of dollars. However, if you locate a replacement chipped key online, you might be saving money by getting this and having a professional locksmith install it in your vehicle for you.