How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
Using a specialized lock pick or a key opener could aid. You can also spray linseed or penetrating oils into the lock in order to lubricate it and allow it to move again freely.
It is however not a project for the casual homeowner and should be left to a licensed and certified locksmith. Here are four key lock issues that they can solve:
Power door locks don't work
Door locks with power offer excellent convenience, but they bring more complex mechanisms to the vehicle. This means that things can go wrong in a variety of ways. If the door lock actuator doesn't work it could be a serious issue that requires expert assistance. Before you call a mechanic, try some simple troubleshooting techniques.
Check the battery on your key fob. If the battery is drained or near death it could cause the locks to not work. Replacing the battery is a simple and inexpensive solution to this problem.
A malfunctioning power actuator is a different issue. This is a very common issue and is typically easy to diagnose. You can make use of a digital multimeter to determine whether the actuator is getting power or not. If it is and the actuator isn't responding to the button for locking doors and it's time to replace it.
You can also clean the contacts on the door lock actuator. This is a little more involved than simply cleaning a switch but is often enough to fix the issue. To do this, you'll have to remove the actuator and take it apart. Unscrew the bolts that join the exterior part of the lock body and remove the entire lock actuator face.
After you have removed the actuator be sure not to cause damage to 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 be sure to unscrew the bolts also. After the rod has been removed it is possible to open the door and inspect the latch to ensure it is properly aligned with the locking post.
If not, you can insert a thin, long 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, it could be an unpleasant experience. However, there are some options you can use to get it working again. First, try changing the battery. This simple step could save you from having to purchase a brand new fob. There are plenty of helpful YouTube videos that will show you how to accomplish this in just a couple of easy steps.
If this isn't working, you might have to reprogram your fob. This can be done in the majority of cases, however it requires the help of a professional or your vehicle's dealer. It isn't easy since newer vehicles include security features that have to be configured correctly.
Another possibility is that your fob has been damaged. Physical force, water, or scratches on the circuit can cause damage. The damage is usually not visible and can only be detected by opening the fob to look inside. You can check for any issues by inspecting the fob for any signs of damage, including cracks in the circuit board, teeny electronic components that are not connected to the circuit board or loose buttons. You can also try to open the fob and remove the battery to get a closer inspection of the connections. Using a flathead screwdriver, you can typically break open most fobs and gain access to the battery but some require more specialized tools or equipment that can only be found at your car's dealership.
If the fob doesn't work If the fob doesn't work, try opening your car's doors using a physical key. If your key's physical counterpart doesn't unlock your car, you may require contacting a locksmith for more serious repairs or visit an authorized service center.
If the key fob won't turn on or turn your car on It could be due to a malfunctioning ignition cylinder. This is a expensive fix that should be left to experts. If the key fob works with the door locks, then it's possible to start your vehicle using the inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed.
If you're unable to turn the lock, it is likely that something is jamming the mechanism. It could be as simple matter of the tumblers being blocked by dirt or rust. It could be that the pins inside are stuck in an unintentionally raised position. The first step is to lubricate the lock mechanism. Spray a dry lubricant like RP7 or graphite spray into the keyway and then insert the key a few times to remove any debris stuck in the lock cylinder. This will also help in lubricating the mechanism and help prevent future issues.
You can also make use of brake cleaner to lubricate the parts of the lock cylinder and to get rid of any grime and rust that might be blocking the tumblers. You can purchase brake cleaning fluid at most auto stores or home improvement stores. Be sure to not make use of oil-based products like WD-40 as they will keep clogging the mechanism over time.
Another common problem that can cause your door locks to jam is that the door frame has moved in time due to temperature and weather fluctuations. This could cause the deadbolt or latch on the door to not align with the hole in the door frame. This problem is easily solved by tightening hinges and replacing damaged or stripped screws.
Regularly checking the condition of your locks is a good idea. This will stop them from becoming jammed or damaged, saving you money and time by not needing to contact a locksmith. Don't hesitate to contact your trusted local mechanic in the event that you encounter an unlocked or broken door lock. They will be able diagnose the issue quickly and recommend the best option. Whether you are seeking an easy fix for your power doors or a more serious problem, they will be happy to help!
The lock is jammed.
Locks stuck in the middle can be quite frustrating, but are often an unavoidable part to owning a vehicle. If your lock is stuck in an unlocked position, or simply won't turn at all, you're likely to want to address it earlier rather than later, before your problem worsens. There are few easy and quick solutions that will to get out of this sticky situation.
Begin by looking at the lock to determine what's preventing its operation. Sometimes, a foreign object could get stuck in the lock or a screw can become loose. You can resolve either of these problems 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 prolonged use.
A worn-out lock may also be the cause of a jammed lock. It isn't responsive to the jiggling. If your lock ceases to turn when you move it around, it's likely time to replace the lock and ensure that it's properly keyed.
If your lock is truly stuck, and no amount of wriggling or spraying lubricant seems to solve the problem, you'll probably need to contact an expert locksmith. They have the skills and tools to safely get rid of the lock that is stuck, without causing damage to your door or car.
Sometimes, the cylinder of the lock is broken. This can happen when the lock was forced open in the past, or in the event of an issue with the lock itself that wasn't repaired or replaced. how to repair car key lock www.g28carkeys.co.uk is advisable to check your cylinder regularly for signs of corrosion or wear, and replace it as necessary. This will help ensure that your vehicle is as secure as possible. If the lock cylinder is cracked or damaged, it can be a huge safety risk for your passengers and for you. Make sure you repair any damaged cylinders as fast as you can.