How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
You can use a lock pick or key opener to assist. You can spray linseed or penetrating oils into the lock in order to make it lubricated and move freely again.
It is recommended to leave it to a certified, licensed locksmith. Here are four locks for cars problems that they can address:
Power door locks don't work
Power door locks provide excellent convenience, but they also add a lot of more complicated mechanisms to the vehicle. This means that things can go wrong in many ways. If your door lock actuator isn't functioning, it can be a major issue that requires expert assistance to fix. Before calling a mechanic try these troubleshooting methods.
The first thing to check is the battery in your key fob. If the battery is drained or is close to dying, it will cause the locks to cease working. This issue can be easily and inexpensively resolved by replacing the battery.
Another possibility is that the power actuator itself might be faulty. This is a typical issue, and it's usually simple to determine. You can test with a multimeter whether the power is working or not. If the power is there, but the actuator doesn't respond when you hit the button to lock the door, it might be time to replace the actuator.
It is also possible 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 accomplish this, you'll need remove the actuator from the door panel and take it apart. There are usually bolts that hold the exterior section of the body of the lock together So, remove them and then take off the entire body of the lock actuator.
After you've removed your actuator, you must be careful not to break the rod that connects it to the lock mechanism. Two bolts are usually located within the interior of the doors that hold the rod. Be sure to remove them too. Once the rod is disconnected, you can inspect the latch to ensure that it is correctly aligned with the locking post.
If not an option, you can use a long, thin object to place between the door panel and the lock. This should release the locking mechanism, and you can unlock the door manually.
The key fob won't work.
If your car key fob isn't working, it could be a frustrating experience. However, there are some options you can use to get it working again. First, try changing the battery. This is a simple procedure that could save you the cost of replacing your fob completely. YouTube has a number useful videos that will help you accomplish this in just a few easy steps.
If this doesn't work, you may have to reprogram your fob. In the majority of cases, this can be done by a professional. It's not easy since many of the latest automobiles come with security features that require to be properly configured.
Your fob could also be damaged. The cause of damage can be a number of reasons, including physical force, water or scratches on the circuit board. The majority of the time, the damage isn't evident and can only be diagnosed by opening up the fob to inspect inside. You can check whether there are any issues by inspecting the fob. Check for indications of damage like cracks on the circuit board or small electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit board. You can also open the fob and remove the battery to get a closer look at the connections. You can pry most fobs open with a flathead, but certain ones require special tools and equipment that is only available at the dealership.
If the fob doesn't work, you can try opening your car's doors using the physical key. If your physical key cannot unlock your car, you might need to contact an expert locksmith for more extensive repairs or visit an authorized service center.
If the key fob will not turn on or start your car, it may be due to a malfunctioning ignition cylinder. This is typically a very expensive fix, so it's best left to an expert. If the key fob is working with the door locks then it's possible to start the car using the inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed.
If you cannot turn your lock it is likely that something is jamming the mechanism. It could be a simple issue because the tumblers are blocked by dirt or rust. It could be that the pins inside are stuck in an unintentionally raised position. The first thing to do is to lubricate the lock mechanism. Spray a dry lubricant such as RP7 or graphite spray in the keyway, and then insert the key several times to remove any debris stuck in the lock cylinder. This will also help lubricate and safeguard the mechanism.
You can also employ brake cleaner to lubricate lock cylinder parts and get rid of any grime and rust that might be blocking the tumblers. You can purchase brake cleaning fluid at most auto supply or home improvement stores. You should avoid using products containing oil, such as WD-40 because they can clog the brake mechanism over time.
The frame of the door may be shifting due to temperature or weather changes. This can cause the deadbolt or latch on the door to no longer align properly with the hole in the frame of the door. This problem is easily solved by tightening hinges and reinstalling broken or damaged screws.
It is always a good idea to check the condition of your door locks on a regular basis. This will prevent them from becoming damaged or jammed, which will save you time and money by not having to contact a locksmith. Do not hesitate to contact your local mechanic of choice when you discover damaged or locked door lock. They'll be able to quickly diagnose the problem and recommend the best method of action. Whether you are seeking a quick fix to your power doors or have a more serious problem, they will be happy to help!
The lock is stuck.
Locks that are stuck are a frustrating and often inevitable part of owning a car. Whether the lock is locked but not in a secure position, or simply won't turn at all, you're going be looking to fix it earlier rather than later, before your problem worsens. There are a few quick and easy solutions to assist you in escaping this sticky situation.
Begin by looking over damaged car door lock to find out what is blocking its proper operation. A screw or foreign object could have loosened. You can resolve either of these issues by cleaning the lock or tightening the screws. You could also try straightening or fixing the ball inside your lock, if they're deformed or are warped by long-term use.
A worn-out lock could be the reason for a jammed lock. It isn't responsive to the jiggling. If your lock stops turning when you play with it, it's likely time to replace the lock and ensure that it's keyed correctly.
If your lock is stuck and no amount moving it around, spraying lubricant or adjusting the knob seems to work, you'll likely need to contact a locksmith for assistance. They can remove a lock stuck without damaging your door or car.
Sometimes, the lock cylinder may be damaged. This could be the case when the lock was forced open in the past or the lock issue was not addressed. It is recommended to check your cylinder for signs of wear and corrosion regularly, and replace the cylinder if necessary. This will ensure that your vehicle is as secure as it can be. If the lock cylinder is damaged or cracked, it can create a risk of serious danger for passengers and you. Make sure you get any damaged cylinders fixed in the earliest time possible.