10 Easy Ways To Figure Out Your Car Door Lock Repairs
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Car Door Lock Repairs
The door lock on your car is a crucial part of its overall security. If your car's door lock is broken or not functioning properly, it should be repaired by an expert.
There are some door locks for cars that can be repaired by a mechanic, such as a broken key. However, the most common problems require a locksmith to repair.
Wiring Problems
When you hit the lock button on your key fob, it sends a signal to a solenoid within the door of your car. The solenoid converts the electronic signal into a mechanical action, in this case moving the rod of steel that was required the turning of a key in a traditional lock. It can be difficult to open the car door if the solenoid fails.
Even the simplest power door lock is composed of several interconnected components. The electrical connection that relays instructions for locking and unlocking from the actuator to the car's interior and exterior is susceptible to failure due to many reasons.
Fuses are among the most frequently encountered car electrical problems, and the fuse relating to your door locks powered by electricity could have been blown. There is a diagram in your owner's manual to help you determine which fuse is responsible. Replace the fuse and then lock your door.
The mechanical portion of your power door lock is also susceptible to wear and tear. It's a complicated system of cables and gears, and a motor that can malfunction or become misaligned. The latch itself may be damaged due to physical damage, a failed attempt to open the lock or the regular use that all automotive components must endure.
It's important to know that the majority of the problems that arise associated with your door locks can be fixed without having to take your vehicle to a repair shop. You can diagnose the issue using a voltmeter, as well as inspect and repair any wiring that may be causing the issue. Regularly checking and lubricating the door lock's components will help prevent wear and tears. Consult a professional if experiencing issues with your power door lock. A specialist in car repairs has the equipment and know-how to complete the repair quickly and efficiently. In many instances, the repair will be covered by your manufacturer warranty. In certain cases, your broken lock will be too damaged and you will need to replace the actuator or the entire mechanism for the door latch.
Stuck Latch
A stuck latch is among the most common reasons for the door lock to fail. When this happens, it indicates that the metal latch isn't slipping into the hole of the strike plate correctly and this creates friction between the two. This could be caused by various factors, including the expansion of wood or moisture. You are likely to be able to resolve this issue by doing some basic troubleshooting.
Examine the latch to determine if it's the latch and not the handle or the keyed cylinder. If it is the latch, then you could try a few different things to resolve it. Start by using a screwdriver to push the latch into its final position. This is less difficult than trying to use credit cards as the screwdriver is able to fit into the space that the latch is placed in.
You may also want to try applying lubrication to the latch. This is a simple fix that you can do by using WD-40. You can use the straw included with the can to spray the lubricant on the latch. Once you have completed this process, you should be able feel the latch moving and loosen.
If the lubricant does not work, you can use needle-nose pliers and then jiggle the mechanism. This can help to break up any rust that is causing the latch to not drop into place correctly. If the pliers do not work, you may need to replace the latch.
Structural damage can also cause the latch to become stuck. The repeated slamming can damage and warp parts of the mechanism. This is particularly relevant to the metal connecting rods responsible for the latch movement. This could be a problem that requires get more info the help of a professional to resolve.
Lock Cylinder
The lock cylinder is the place where you insert your keys to open the trunk or door. It's also where wear and tear can occur. If the doors of your car aren't locking, the cylinder could be jammed and requires Lubrication to solve the issue. To lubricate the cylinder, first spray brake cleaner into it to remove any dirt or grime. Then, place the lubricant in a thin strip like white grease into the keyhole. You could also make use of WD-40, which is a long, skinny straw of red that you stick straight into the keyhole. You can spray more lubricant into the hole, and then turn the key around a few times. This will ensure that everything is oil-free.
Cylinder locks are also susceptible to a problem referred to as "lock snapping." This occurs when the notches in your keys wear out, or aren't in the proper height or position to trigger the pin tumblers in the cylinder to move up and down. This creates an opening between the pins on the upper and lower that prevents the cylinder from moving when it is inserted into the trunk or door lock. It can be a big problem, as you won't be able unlock your car and require replacing the cylinder.
A seized lock cylinder could be a nightmare to fix but it's actually simple. There's typically a screw that holds the cylinder in place and you can remove it with a screwdriver. After you've removed the screw, store it safely to ensure that you don't lose it. Then, insert the key and change it to the ACC RUN, ACC START position, depending on the repair instructions for your particular vehicle. Once you've completed this, remove the key, and you should be capable of pulling the cylinder that was previously in the lock housing.
The only thing more difficult than lubricating the lock cylinder is getting it out of your vehicle. To do this, you'll have to take off the door panel (and perhaps other covers or panels) and then remove the screw that holds the cylinder. You'll then need to use an awl or pick to get the lock cylinder off.
Lost Keys
It's a scary feeling when you reach in your purse or pocket only to discover that your keys aren't there. That's why it is so important to have an extra key on hand at all times, and to keep it in a location where you or someone else will be able to retrieve it when needed. It wasn't too long ago that losing or losing your car keys wasn't an problem. You could simply call locksmith or roadside assistance and they'll open your door for you. Now, though, cars are more advanced and keys have followed suit and are now more costly to replace if you lose them.
You can try a few different methods to get back into your car when you've locked your keys inside, but be cautious as some are not safe. If you have a pet or child who is locked in your car, you should not attempt to break the windows to get them out. This is a risky move and could cause further damage to the vehicle. Also, if you don't have a slim jim, you should not try to unlock your car's locks with pliers or screwdrivers because this can also cause further damage.
Another method to avoid locking your keys in the car is to have a locksmith make you a spare that will be always accessible. They can put it in a spot where you or someone you trust will be able to find it and you should keep the spare with you so that you can quickly get into your car when needed.
If you lose your keys, and it's a newer model with a chip, a locksmith could need to unlock your car and rekey your locks or make you a brand new key. This is a much more complicated process that could cost you hundreds of dollars. If you find an online replacement chipped key, you may be able save money by having a professional install it for you.