How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
You can use lockspicks or a key opener to assist. You can also squirt penetrating oil or linseed oil in the lock to help lubricate it and allow it to move freely.
However, it is not a task for the home-owner who isn't a professional, and it is best left to a licensed and certified locksmith. Here are four common car door lock problems that locksmiths can fix for you:
Power door locks don't work
Power door locks are convenient but they also introduce more complex mechanisms into the vehicle. This also means that things can go wrong in various ways. If the door lock actuator isn't working it could be a major issue that requires professional assistance. Before calling for help from a professional it's a good idea to try some simple troubleshooting techniques.
The first thing to check is the battery in your key fob. If the battery is dead or near death, it could cause the locks to cease working. This problem can be easily and inexpensively solved by replacing the battery.
Another possible issue is that the power actuator itself may be defective. This is a frequent issue and is usually easy to diagnose. You can use a digital multimeter to check whether the actuator is receiving power or not. If there is power however the actuator does not respond when you press the button to lock the door, it could be time to replace the actuator.
You can also clean the contacts on the door lock actuator. It's a little more difficult than cleaning a switch, but often it works. To do this, you'll have to remove the actuator and disassemble it. Unscrew the bolts that join the exterior portion of the lock body and remove the entire face of the lock actuator.
After taking the actuator off take care not to harm the rod that connects it to the locking mechanism. There are usually two more bolts in the interior of the door that hold the rod in place, so make sure you remove those too. Once auto lock repair near me G28CarKeys is unplugged, you can open the door and check the latch to make sure it's properly aligned with the locking post.
If it's not, you can utilize a thin, long object to put between the lock and the door panel. This will release the locking mechanism, and you can unlock the door by hand.
The key fob isn't working
If your car key fob isn't working, it can be a frustrating experience. However, there are some things you can try to make it work again. First, you must replace the battery. This is a simple procedure that could help you avoid the expense of replacing the entire fob. YouTube offers a variety of useful videos that show you how to accomplish this in a few simple steps.
If this doesn't work, you may have to reprogram your fob. This can be done in the majority of cases, however it requires the help of an expert or your car's dealer. It's not easy, as many newer automobiles include security features that have to be configured correctly.
Another possibility is that your fob is damaged. Physical force, water, or scratches on the circuit could cause damage. Oftentimes, this damage isn't evident and can only be detected by opening the fob to inspect inside. You can check if there are any issues by examining the fob. Look for indications of damage, such as cracks on the circuit board, or tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to circuit board. You may also open the fob in order to remove the battery and take a closer look. You can open most fobs open using a flathead, however certain ones require special tools and equipment that is only available at the dealership.
You could also try using the physical key to open your car's doors in the event that the fob isn't working. If your key's physical counterpart doesn't unlock your car, you may need to contact a locksmith for more serious repairs or visit a service center.
A malfunctioning ignition cylinder may be the cause for your key fob not turning on or starting your vehicle. This is usually a very expensive fix, and it's best left to an expert. However, if the key fob works fine with the door locks, it should still be able to start the car using its inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed
If your lock won't move at all, despite trying to insert the key, there is likely to be something blocking the mechanism. It could be as simple matter of the tumblers being blocked by dirt or rust or it could be that the pins inside are stuck in an elevated position. First, lubricate your lock mechanism. Spray a dry lubricant such as RP7 or graphite spray into the keyway and then insert the key several times to loosen any debris that has gotten stuck in the lock cylinder. This will also help to lubricate the mechanism and avoid future issues.
You can also use brake cleaner to lubricate the parts of the lock cylinder and to remove any rust and grime that could be obstructing the tumblers. You can purchase brake cleaning fluid from most auto store or home improvement stores. Be sure to not use oil-based products such as WD-40, as these will cause clogging of the mechanism over time.
The door frame could have moved due to temperature or weather changes. The deadbolt or latch of the door may no longer align correctly with the hole in the frame. This problem is easily solved by tightening hinges and replacing broken or damaged screws.
It is recommended to inspect the condition of your door locks regularly. This will prevent them from being damaged or jammed, which will save your time and money by not having to contact a locksmith. If you find that you've locked your car or broken door lock Do not hesitate to contact your trusted local mechanic to seek assistance and advice. They will be able diagnose the issue quickly and suggest the best solution. Whether you are looking for a quick fix to your power doors or a more significant issue, they'll be more than happy to assist!
The lock is stuck
Stuck locks can be frustrating However, they are usually an unavoidable part to owning a car. You'll want to fix the issue as quickly as you can and before it gets any worse. There are fortunately a few quick and easy solutions that can get you out of this sticky situation.
Begin by looking at the lock to find out what is preventing its operation. Sometimes, a foreign object could be stuck in the lock or a screw can become loose. If either of these situations is the case, you might be able fix the issue by cleaning out the lock or tightening the screw. You can also straighten or repair the ball bearings of your lock if they are warped or deformed because of repeated use.
A worn-out lock may also be the reason for an unlocked lock. It isn't responsive to jiggling. If your lock stops turning when you play with it, it's likely time to replace it and ensure that it is keyed correctly.
If your lock is stuck and no amount of wriggling or spraying fluid seems to fix the issue, you'll need to contact an expert locksmith. They can safely remove a lock stuck without causing further damage to your door or car.
Sometimes, the cylinder in the lock may be damaged. This could be the case when the lock was forced open in the past or the lock problem was not fixed. It is recommended to check your cylinder for signs of corrosion and wear frequently, and replace the cylinder when necessary. This will ensure that your vehicle is as secure as it is. And if the lock cylinder is cracked or damaged, it can be dangerous for your passengers and for you. Make sure you get any damaged cylinders repaired as soon as possible.