Why You're Failing At Car Door Lock Repairs
Wiki Article
Car Door Lock Repairs
The door lock on your car is a crucial part of its overall security. If the door lock on your vehicle is damaged or doesn't function correctly, you must have it repaired by a professional.
Some door locks for cars can be fixed by a mechanic. For instance broken keys. However, the most frequent problems require a locksmith to fix.
Wiring Problems
When you hit the lock button on your key fob, it sends an electronic signal to a solenoid in your car's door. The solenoid converts the electronic signal into an action that is mechanical, in this case moving a rod made of steel, which required the turning of a real key in the traditional lock. If the solenoid malfunctions it will be difficult to open your car's door.
The electrical system of your car is an intricate wiring system that runs through the exterior and interior of your vehicle. even the simplest power door locks are made up of several interconnected components. The electrical connection that relays lock/unlock instructions from the actuator to the car's interior and exterior is susceptible to failure due to many reasons.
Fuses are one of the most frequent electrical issues in automobiles. The power door lock fuse might have failed to blow. Look through the owner's manual for an illustration that can aid you in identifying the fuse that is responsible, then replace it and test the door lock again.
The mechanical portion of your power door lock is also susceptible to wear and tear. It's a complicated system of cables and gears as well as an engine that could malfunction or be misaligned. The latch itself can also be damaged through physical damage or failure to jimmy the lock open, or simply the daily use that all automotive components must endure.
It's good to know that a majority of the issues that occur associated with your door locks are easily fixed without taking your vehicle to a repair shop. You can use a voltmeter to examine and troubleshoot any wiring that could be causing the issue. Regularly inspecting and lubricating door lock components will reduce wear and tear. Consult a professional if still having problems with your door lock's power. A qualified mechanic for cars has the tools and experience to complete the repair quickly. In most instances, the repair is covered by the manufacturer's warranty. In some instances, the damage to your lock may be too severe, and you'll have to replace the entire mechanism of your door latch or the actuator.
Stuck Latch
A stuck latch is the most frequent reason for a door lock failure. When this happens, it indicates that the metal latch isn't fitting into the the strike plate correctly and this causes friction between the two. This could be due to various factors, like moisture and expansion of wood. This issue can be solved with some simple troubleshooting.
Check to see if it's the latch and not the handle or keyed cylinder. If it's the latch, you can try several different ways to fix it. Start by putting the latch in position with the help of a screwdriver. This is less difficult than attempting to use credit card since the screwdriver is able to fit into the space that the latch sits in.
You may also want to try lubricating the latch. You can solve this issue using WD-40. The can typically includes a straw can be inserted into the hole of the nozzle to spray the lubricant directly into the latch. After you've done this you should be able to 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 could help break up any rust causing the latch not to fall into place properly. If the pliers aren't working, then you may have to replace the latch completely.
The latch could also become stuck due to structural damage. A constant slamming on the door could cause warping and cause damage to parts of the mechanism, particularly the metal connecting rods which are responsible for the latch's movement. This may be a problem that requires the assistance of a professional to resolve.
Lock Cylinder
The lock cylinder is the place where you insert your keys to open a door or trunk. It's also where the most wear and tear could occur. If you're having trouble with your car doors not locking, it could be that the cylinder is jammed, and needs to be lubricated to fix the problem. Spray brake cleaner onto the cylinder to get rid of any dirt and grime. Place a thin strip like white grease, of lubricant into the keyhole. You could also make use of WD-40 which includes a long red straw you can stick directly into the keyhole. You can also spray a little 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 can also be vulnerable to a condition known as "lock snapping." This happens when the notches in your keys wear out, or aren't in the proper size and position to cause the pin tumblers inside the cylinder to move up and down. This causes a gap between lower and upper pins which prevents the cylinders from moving when they are inserted into the door lock or trunk. It can be a big problem, as that you will not be able to open your car and will require replacing the cylinder.
A locked cylinder that is damaged could be a nightmare to fix, but it's actually pretty easy. There's usually a flat screw that holds the cylinder and you can take it off it with the help of a G28 screwdriver. After you've removed it, store it safely to ensure that you don't lose it. Insert the key, and then switch it to the RUN, ACC or START positions according to the repair instructions for your vehicle. After you've done that, take out the key. It should be possible to pull the old cylinder from the lock housing.
The most difficult thing about the process of lubricating the lock cylinder is getting it removed from your vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll need to take off the door panel (and perhaps other panels or covers) and then take off the screw that holds the cylinder. You'll need to use an awl or pick to pry the lock cylinder free.
Lost Keys
It's a frightening feeling to reach into your pocket or purse and find that your keys aren't there. It is important to always keep an extra car key with you. Store it in a place in a place where you or someone else is able locate it. Not so long ago having lost or misplaced your car keys wasn't really an issue. You could just call roadside assistance or a locksmith to open your door for you. The keys for modern vehicles are more expensive and complicated.
There are a number of options you can take to try and get into your car if you put your keys in it, however, you should always use caution as some of these methods aren't always safe. For instance, if you have a small pet or a child in the vehicle with you, you shouldn't attempt to break the windows to let them out since this could be dangerous and could cause further damage to your vehicle. If you don't own a slim Jim, you shouldn't try to pick the lock of your vehicle using screwsdrivers or pliers, since this can cause further damage.
Another way to ensure that you don't lock your keys inside the car is to have a locksmith design you a spare key that will be easily accessible at all times. The locksmith can put it in a place that you, or someone else you are confident in, will be able to locate. You should always keep the spare key in your car to be able quickly access your vehicle if needed.
If you lose your key, and it's a different model with chip, a locksmith may have to open your vehicle and rekey your locks or create a new key. This is a more involved process and can cost you hundreds of dollars. If you are able to find a replacement chipped key on the internet, you might be in a position to save money by buying this key and having a professional locksmith install it in your car for you.