Car Door Lock Repairs Isn't As Difficult As You Think
Wiki Article
Car Door Lock Repairs
The lock on the car's door is a vital part of the vehicle's overall security. If the lock on your car's door is broken or not functioning correctly, it must be fixed by an expert.
Certain car door locks can be fixed by mechanics. For example broken keys. The most common problems can be solved by locksmiths.
Wiring Problems
When you press the lock button on your key fob, it sends an electronic signal to a solenoid inside the door of your car. The solenoid converts your electronic signal into a mechanical action. In this case it turns a steel rod which required the use of a key to open the traditional lock for cars. If the solenoid fails it will be difficult to open your car's door.
The electrical system of your car is an intricate network of wires running throughout the exterior and interior of your vehicle, and even the simplest power door locks are composed of many interconnected components. The electrical connection that relays lock/unlock instructions from the actuator to the car's interior and exterior could fail due to a variety of reasons.
Fuses are among the most frequent electrical issues that car owners face and the fuse connected to your power door locks might have failed. Look through the owner's manual for diagrams that can help you identify the fuse responsible, then replace it and test the door lock again.
The mechanical portion of your door lock's power source is also susceptible to wear and tear. It is a complex assembly of gears and cables, as well as an engine that could malfunction or get unbalanced. The latch can be damaged due to physical damage or an unsuccessful attempt to push the lock to open.
The good news is that the most common issues with your door locks that are powered by electricity are often fixed without the need to take your vehicle to a repair shop. You can identify the issue by using a voltmeter as well as inspect and fix any wiring that could be causing the problem. Regular inspections and lubricating the door lock's components will help prevent wear and tears. If you're experiencing issues with your door locks that are powered call a professional for assistance. A professional car mechanic has the tools and experience to complete the repair quickly. In many cases, your warranty from the manufacturer will cover the repair. In certain cases, your broken lock will be too far gone and you'll need to replace the actuator or the entire mechanism for the door latch.
Stuck Latch
A stuck latch is the most common reason behind failure of a door lock. If this happens, it means that the latch isn't slipping into the the strike plate in a proper manner and this causes friction between the two. This can be caused by many factors, such as the expansion of wood or moisture. This issue can be fixed by a simple fix.
Examine the latch to determine if it's the latch and not the handle or the keyed cylinder. If it's the latch, you can try several different things to fix it. Begin by pushing the latch into its position using the help of a screwdriver. This is easier than trying to use a credit card as the screwdriver will be able to fit into the space that the latch sits in.
You might also want to grease the latch. This is a quick fix that you can do with some WD-40. You can make use of the straw that comes with the can to spray the lubricant on the latch. You will feel the latch loosen and move once you've completed this.
If the lubricant does not work, you can use needle-nose pliers, and jiggle the mechanism. This will help break down any rust that causes the latch to not fall into place correctly. If the pliers don't work, you may have to replace the latch.
A structural issue can cause the latch to become stuck. The repeated slamming of the latch can cause damage and warping to parts of the mechanism. This is particularly relevant to the metal connecting rods that control the latch's movement. This could be a problem that requires the assistance of a professional to resolve.
Lock Cylinder
The lock cylinder is where the keys are inserted to unlock the trunk or door. It's also the place where a lot of wear and tear could occur. If your car's doors are not locking, the cylinder may be blocked and require Lubrication to solve the issue. Spray brake cleaner onto the cylinder to clean it of dirt and grime. Then, put a thin strip of lubricant like white grease into the keyhole. You can also use WD-40, which is a long, thin red straw that you can stick straight into the keyhole. You could also spray a little more lubricant in the hole and turn the key several times to spread it around and make sure everything is oil-free.
Cylinder locks are also 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 and location to trigger the pin tumblers in the cylinder to move upwards and downwards. This creates a gap between lower and upper pins that prevents the cylinders from moving when they are inserted into the trunk lock or door lock. It can be a big deal, as it means you won't be able open your vehicle and will need to replace the cylinder.
It's not a big deal to fix the locked cylinder that is stuck. There's typically a screw that holds the cylinder in place, and you can loosen it using the help of a screwdriver. Once you've got the screw loose be sure to put it in a safe location so you don't lose it. Then you can insert the key and turn it to the ACC, RUN, or START position, based on the repair instructions specific to your vehicle. After you've done this, remove the key. It should be possible to remove the cylinder that was previously used from the lock housing.
The only thing that is more difficult than lubricating the lock the cylinder is removing it of your vehicle. To do this you will have to take off the door panel, and maybe other covers or panels. Then, take out the screw that holds the cylinder in position. You'll then need to use an awl or pick to get the lock cylinder free.
Lost Keys
It's an incredibly frightening feeling when you reach into your purse or pocket only to realize that your keys aren't there. This is why it's important to have an extra key on hand at all moments, and to keep it in a location where you or someone else is in a position to retrieve it when needed. It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. Contacting roadside assistance or a professional locksmith to open your car door was not a big deal. Now, though, cars have become more technologically advanced and keys have followed suit and are now more costly to replace in the event of losing them.
There are a variety of different methods to gain access back into your car when you've locked your keys inside, but be cautious because some methods aren't safe. If you have a pet or child locked in your car, you should not attempt to break the windows get more info to open them. This is risky and could cause further damage to the vehicle. If you don't own a slim Jim, don't try to pick the lock of your car with screwsdrivers or pliers, because this could cause further damage.
A locksmith can also create an additional key that is easily accessible. The locksmith can install it in a spot that you, or a person you are confident in, will be able to locate. You should always keep the spare key in your possession in order to quickly gain access your car in the event of need.
If you lose your keys, and it's a different model with a chip, a locksmith might need to unlock your car and rekey the locks or create a new key. This is a very involved process and can cost hundreds of dollars. If you can find an online replacement chipped key, you may be able to save money by having a professional install it for you.