How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
Utilizing a lock pick made for specific use or key opener may assist. You can also squirt penetrating oil or linseed oil in the lock to help lubricate it and allow it to move freely again.
It is however not a project for the casual homeowner and should be left to a licensed, certified locksmith. Here are four typical car door lock problems that locksmiths can fix for you:
Power door locks don't work
The power door locks are useful however, they also bring more complex mechanisms into the car. This means that there are many possibilities for things to go wrong as well. If your door lock actuator isn't functioning, it can be a serious issue that requires professional help to fix. But, before you call for help from a professional try some easy troubleshooting strategies.
The first thing you need to check is the battery on your key fob. If the battery is dying or is close to dying, it could cause the locks to not work. Replacing the battery is a relatively affordable and simple solution to this problem.
A malfunctioning power actuator could be a problem. This is a common problem and is usually easy to diagnose. You can make use of a digital multimeter to see whether the actuator is receiving power or not. If it is, and the actuator still isn't responding to the button for locking doors It's probably time to replace it.
You can also try to clean the contacts of the door lock actuator. It's a bit more complicated than cleaning a switch but usually works. To do this you will have to take the actuator off and disassemble it. Unscrew the bolts that join the exterior section of lock body together and then remove the entire face of the lock actuator.
After you have removed the actuator take care not to cause damage to the rod that connects it to the locking mechanism. There are usually two more bolts on the inside of the door that keep the rod in place therefore, you must remove the bolts also. After the rod has been removed it is possible to open the door and inspect the latch to ensure it's aligned correctly with the locking post.
If not, you can make use of a long, thin object to place between the lock and the door panel. This should release any locking mechanism so you can open your door by hand.
The key fob isn't working
It can be frustrating when your car key fob doesn't work. There are a few things you can do to make it work. First, replace the battery. This is a simple step that could save you the expense of replacing your fob completely. You can find a number of helpful YouTube videos that demonstrate how to do this in just a couple of easy steps.
If this doesn't help you, you might need to reset the fob. This is possible in most cases, but it will require the assistance of a professional or your car's dealer. It's not always easy since many of the latest vehicles come with security features that require to be set up correctly.
Another possibility is that your fob is damaged. Physical force, water, or scratches on the circuit could cause damage. This type of damage is typically not obvious and can only be detected by opening the fob up to look inside. You can check for any issues by inspecting the fob for signs of damage, like cracks in the circuit board, tiny electronic components not fully attached to the circuit board or loose buttons. You can also try to open the fob and take out the battery for an inspection of the connections. It is possible to pry the fobs with a flathead, but some require specialized tools and equipment that are only available at the dealer.
You could also try using the physical key to unlock your car doors in the event that the fob isn't working. If your key's physical counterpart doesn't unlock your car, you might require contacting 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 defective ignition cylinder. G28 Car Keys is a very costly fix and should be left to the experts. However, if the key fob works well with the door locks, it should be capable of starting the car using its inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed.
If you cannot turn your lock it is most likely that something is jamming the mechanism. It could be as simple as the tumblers becoming blocked by rust or dirt or that the pins are stuck in a partially raised position. First, lubricate your 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 that is stuck in the lock cylinder. This will also help to lubricate and protect the mechanism.
You can also use brake cleaner to lubricate parts of the lock cylinder, and also remove any grime or rust that might be blocking the tumblers. You can buy brake cleaning fluid at most auto stores or home improvement stores. Make sure not to make use of oil-based products like WD-40 since they can cause clogging of the mechanism over time.
The door frame may be shifting due to temperature and weather changes. The deadbolt or latch on the door might not align with the hole on the frame. This issue is easily solved by tightening hinges and reinstalling damaged or damaged screws.
It is always recommended to inspect the condition of your door locks regularly. This will help prevent them from becoming damaged or jammed and save you the hassle and expense of calling a locksmith assistance. If you discover that you have a locked vehicle or a damaged door lock do not hesitate to contact your local mechanic of choice to seek assistance and advice. They will be able diagnose the problem quickly and recommend the best option. They will be happy to assist you, whether you require a quick fix for your power doors or are having a more serious problem.
The lock is stuck.
Locks that are stuck can be a pain however, they are an inevitable aspect of owning a car. If your lock is locked but not in a secure position, or doesn't turn at all, you're going be looking to fix it sooner rather than later before the problem gets worse. There are some simple and quick fixes that will assist you in escaping this tense situation.
Begin by looking at the lock to find out what is preventing its operation. A screw or foreign object may have become loose. If either of these situations is the case, you might be able to resolve the issue by cleaning the lock, or tightening the screw. You can also straighten or repair the ball bearings of your lock if they're bent or damaged from repeated use.
A damaged lock could be the cause of an unlocked lock. It will not respond to jiggling. If your lock has stopped turning when you turn the knob, it's likely time to replace it and make sure it is keyed correctly with your other doors.
If your lock is stuck and no amount trying to wiggle it, spraying lubricant or adjusting the knob seems to work, you'll likely have to call a locksmith for assistance. They have the skills and tools to safely remove the lock that is stuck, without causing damage to your door or car.
In some cases the lock's cylinder is broken. This could happen if the lock was forced open in the past or when there was a problem with the lock that was not repaired or replaced. You should check your cylinder for signs of wear and corrosion frequently, and replace the cylinder if necessary. This will ensure that your vehicle is as safe as it can be. If the lock cylinder is damaged or cracked, it can create a risk of serious danger for passengers and you. Be sure to fix any damaged cylinders as soon as you can.