Car Door Lock Repairs
The door lock of your car is an essential component of the overall security. If the door lock on your vehicle is damaged or does not work properly, you should have it repaired by a professional.
There are a few door locks for cars that can be fixed by a mechanic for instance, a broken key. However, the most frequent problems require a locksmith to repair.
Wiring Issues
When you push the lock key on your key fob it sends a message to a solenoid inside the door of your car. The solenoid converts the electronic signal into a mechanical action which is in this case, moving a rod made of steel, which used to require the turning of a key in the traditional lock. It can be difficult to unlock the car door if the solenoid is not working.
Even the most basic power door lock is composed of a variety of interconnected parts. The electrical connection that relays lock/unlock instructions from the actuator to the car's exterior and interior is susceptible to failure due to many reasons.
Fuses are among the most frequently encountered electrical problems in vehicles. The power door lock fuse could have blown. Look through the owner's manual for diagrams that can aid you in identifying the cause of the problem to blow, then replace it and test the door lock again.
The mechanical component of your power door lock is also susceptible to wear and wear and. It's a complicated system of cables and gears and a motor that can malfunction or be disaligned. The latch itself can also be damaged by physical damage or a failed attempt to jimmy the lock open or the normal use that all automotive components have to endure.
The good news is that the most common problems with your door locks that are powered by electricity are often fixed without having to bring your vehicle to repair shops. You can troubleshoot the problem using a voltmeter, as well as examine and repair any wiring that may be the cause of the issue. Performing regular inspections and making sure that your door lock components are lubricated can help to prevent wear and tear. Contact a professional if you're still experiencing issues with your power door lock. A professional car mechanic will have the necessary tools and skills to fix the issue quickly. In most cases, your warranty from the manufacturer will cover the repair. In some instances the broken lock may be too damaged and you'll have to replace the actuator or the entire door latch mechanism.
Stuck Latch
A stuck latch is the most common reason behind a door lock failure. When this occurs it means that the metal latch isn't fitting into the the strike plate in a proper manner and this causes friction between the two. This can be caused by various factors, such as wood expansion or moisture. This problem can be resolved by performing a few simple troubleshooting.
The first step is to make sure it's the latch that is stuck, rather than the handle or the cylinder that is keyed. If it is the latch, you can try a couple of different things to resolve it. You can begin by using a screwdriver to push the latch into its final position. car locking system repair is easier than using a credit card as the screwdriver can fit in the space in which the latch is.
You might also want to grease the latch. You can fix this problem with WD-40. You can use the straw that comes with the can to spray the lubricant into the latch. Once you have completed this process, you should be able feel the latch move and loosen.
If the lubricant doesn't work then you could try using needle-nose pliers for jiggling the mechanism back and forward. This can help break up any rust that causes the latch to not slide into position correctly. If the pliers do not work, then you might need to replace the latch completely.
A structural issue can cause the latch to become stuck. The repeated slamming could cause damage and warping to parts of the mechanism. This is particularly true for the metal connecting rods which control the movement of the latch. This may be a problem that requires the assistance of a specialist to fix.
Lock Cylinder
The lock cylinder is where you insert your keys to open the trunk or door. It's also where the most wear and tear can happen. If the doors of your car aren't locking, the cylinder could be blocked and requires Lubrication to solve the issue. To lubricate your cylinder, first spray brake cleaner in it to eliminate any dirt or grime. Then, you can stick a thin piece of lubricant like white grease into the keyhole. You could also use WD-40 which comes with the long red straw that you can stick directly into the keyhole. You can also spray a bit more lubricant into the hole and turn the key a few times to spread it out and make sure everything is oil-free.
Cylinder locks may also be vulnerable to a condition known as "lock snapping." This happens when the notches on your keys wear down, or aren't at the correct height or position to cause the pin tumblers in the cylinder to move up and down. This causes a gap between the pins on the upper and lower that stop the cylinder from moving when it is inserted into the trunk or door lock. It could be a major issue, since it means you won't be able open your car and will require replacing the cylinder.
It's not difficult to repair the locked cylinder that has become stuck. There's typically a screw with a flat surface that holds the cylinder, and you can loosen it with an screwdriver. Once you've removed the screw, put it somewhere safe so you don't lose it. Then insert the key and switch it to the ACC, RUN, or START position, depending on the repair instructions for your specific vehicle. After this, remove the key. You should be able to remove the old cylinder from the lock housing.
The only thing more difficult than lubricating the lock the cylinder is removing it of your car. To do this you will have to remove the door panel and perhaps other covers or panels. Then, you need to remove the screw that holds the cylinder in place. You'll then need to employ an awl or a pick to pull the lock cylinder off.
Lost Keys
It's a terrifying feeling to go into your purse or pocket and discover that your keys aren't there. That's why it is so important to keep a spare key with you at all moments, and to keep it somewhere that you or someone else will be capable of retrieving it if needed. It wasn't that long ago that losing or losing your car keys was not an problem. Contacting roadside assistance or a professional locksmith to unlock your car's door was not a major issue. The keys for modern vehicles are more expensive as well as more complex.
You can try a few different methods to gain access back into your car when you've locked your keys inside, but be cautious as some are not safe. If you have a pet or child locked in your car, do not attempt to break the windows to open them. This is risky and could cause further damage to the vehicle. If you don't own a slim Jim, don't attempt to open the lock of your car using screwsdrivers or pliers, since this can cause further damage.
A locksmith can also create an additional key that is easily accessible. The locksmith can place it in a place that you, or someone you trust, can easily find. You should always keep the spare key in your possession in order to quickly gain access your car if necessary.
If you lose your keys, and it's a model newer with chip, a locksmith might require you to unlock your vehicle and rekey your locks or create a brand new key. This is a more complicated process that can cost hundreds of dollars. If you find an online replacement chipped key, you may be able to save money by hiring a professional to install it for you.