How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
Utilizing a lock pick that is specialized or a key opener could help. You can also squirt penetrating oil or linseed oils into the lock to lubricate it and make it move freely.
But, it's not a project for the home-owner who isn't a professional and should be left to a licensed, certified locksmith. Here are four locks for cars issues that they can solve:
Power door locks don't work
Power door locks offer an incredible convenience, but they also bring more complex mechanisms to the car. This means that things can be faulty in many ways. If your door lock actuator isn't working it could be a major problem that requires expert assistance to fix. Before calling for help from a professional, it's worth trying some easy troubleshooting strategies.
The first thing to check is the battery inside your key fob. If it's dead or nearly dead, that will obviously result in the locks not to function. Replacing the battery is a relatively easy and affordable solution to this problem.
Another possible issue is that the power actuator itself may be defective. This is a common problem that is generally easy to identify. You can use a multimeter to check whether the power is working or not. If there is power but the actuator doesn't respond when you hit the door lock button then it could be time to replace the actuator.
www.g28carkeys.co.uk can also try to clean the contacts of the door lock actuator. This is a little more involved than cleaning switches but is often enough to resolve the issue. To do this, you'll need to remove the actuator and disassemble it. There are usually bolts that hold the exterior portion of the lock body together, so unscrew them and then remove the entire body of the lock actuator.
Once you've removed the actuator, you must be cautious not to scratch the rod that connects it to the lock mechanism. There are typically two bolts in the interior of the door that keep the rod in place, therefore, you must remove those also. Once the rod is unplugged then you can open the door and check the latch to ensure it's properly aligned with the locking post.
If not, insert a long, thin item between the lock and the door panel. This should open any locking mechanism and you can open your door manually.
The key fob isn't working.
If your car key fob isn't working properly, it can be a frustrating experience. There are a few steps you can try to make it work. First, try changing the battery. This is a simple step that can save you the cost of having to replace your fob completely. YouTube has a range of helpful videos that will show you how to accomplish this in a couple of easy steps.
If this doesn't work, you may have to reprogram your fob. In most cases, this should be done by an expert. It can be complicated because many modern automobiles come with security features that require to be configured correctly.
Your fob could also be damaged. The cause of damage can be various reasons, such as water, physical force, or scratches on the circuit board. Oftentimes, this damage isn't evident and can only be detected by opening the fob to inspect inside. You can check whether there are any issues by examining the fob. Check for indications of damage like cracks on the circuit board or tiny electronic components that are not fully attached to circuit board. You can also try to open the fob and take out the battery for a closer inspection of the connections. It is possible to pry the fobs with a flathead. However, some require specialized tools and equipment that is only available at the dealer.
If the fob does not work, you can try opening your car's doors using a physical key. If the physical key doesn't unlock your car, it may be time to contact an locksmith or go to an authorized service center for more extensive repair.
A damaged ignition cylinder could be the reason for your key fob not turning on or starting your car. This is usually an expensive fix, so it's recommended to leave it to a professional. If the key fob is working well with the door locks, it should still be able to start the vehicle using its inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed.
If your lock won't turn at all despite trying to insert the key, it is likely something jamming the mechanism. It could be as straightforward as the tumblers getting clogged by rust or dirt, or that the pins are stuck in a partially raised position. The first step is to lubricate the lock mechanism. Spray a dry lubricant, like RP7 aerosol or graphite into the keyway. Insert the key a couple of times to release any debris that has accumulated in the lock cylinder. This will also help lubricate and safeguard the mechanism.
You can also use brake cleaning fluid to lubricate lock cylinder parts and remove any rust or grime that could be obstructing the tumblers. You can purchase brake cleaning fluid at most auto stores or home improvement stores. Avoid using products that contain oil such as WD-40 as they will clog up the brake mechanism over time.
Another common problem that can cause your door locks to get jammed is that the door frame has shifted over time due temperature and weather fluctuations. This could cause the deadbolt or latch on the door to no longer line up correctly with the hole in the door frame. It is possible to solve this problem by tightening the hinges on the door and replacing any damaged or loosened screws.
Regularly checking the condition of your locks is a good idea to check the condition of your locks regularly. This will help prevent them from being damaged or jammed, which will save you money and time by not needing to contact a locksmith. Don't hesitate to contact your local mechanic who you trust when you discover damaged or locked door lock. They'll be able to identify the problem quickly and recommend the best option. They'll be glad to help you, whether you require an immediate fix to your power doors or are experiencing a more serious issue.
The lock is stuck
Stuck locks are a frustrating and sometimes inevitable aspect of owning a vehicle. You'll want to address the issue as soon as possible and before it gets any worse. There are a few quick and easy solutions that can help you get out of this sticky situation.
Begin by looking at the lock to determine what is preventing its operation. Sometimes, a foreign object could get stuck in the lock or a screw may have become loose. If either of these problems is the case, you may be able to fix the issue by cleaning out the lock, or tightening the screw. You can also straighten or fix the balls of your lock if they are warped or deformed due to repeated use.
Another reason for a locked that is stuck is that it's worn out and doesn't respond to the jiggling. If your lock has stopped turning when you twist the knob, it's time to replace it. Also make sure it is properly keyed with the other doors.
If your lock is stuck and no amount of wriggling, or spraying with lubricant seems to solve the issue, you'll need to call an expert locksmith for assistance. They can remove a stuck lock without causing further damage to your car or door.
In a few cases, the lock cylinder itself may be damaged. This could happen if the lock was forced open in the past instance, or if a lock problem was not fixed. It is recommended to check your cylinder for signs of corrosion and wear regularly and replace the cylinder if needed. This will ensure that your car is as secure as possible. If the lock cylinder has been damaged or cracked it could be a significant safety risk for you and your passengers. So be sure to have any damaged cylinders fixed as soon as you can.