10 Things We Hate About Car Door Lock Repairs
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Car Door Lock Repairs
The door lock on your car is a crucial element of its overall security. If the lock on your car's door is broken or not functioning properly, it should be repaired by an expert.
Some car door locks can be fixed by a mechanic. For instance, a broken key. The most common problems can be fixed by locksmiths.
Wiring Issues
When you push the lock key on your key fob it sends a message to a solenoid in your car's door. This solenoid converts the electronic signal into a mechanical. In this case it is moving a steel rod which used to require a key to turn in a traditional car lock. If the solenoid malfunctions it will be difficult to open your car's door.
Even the most basic door lock powered by electricity is made up of a variety of interconnected parts. The electrical connection that relays lock/unlock instructions from the actuator to the car's exterior and interior is susceptible to failure due to many reasons.
Fuses are among the most frequently encountered electrical problems in cars. The door lock's power fuse might have blown. There is a diagram in your owner's guide that will help you identify which fuse is responsible. Replace it and then try to lock your door.
The mechanical part of your door lock's power is also prone to wear and tear. It is a complex assembly of cables, gears and an electric motor all of which could fail or be disaligned. The latch can be damaged by physical damage or by a failed attempt to jimper the lock open.
It's important to know that most of the issues that occur with your power door locks can be fixed without having to take your vehicle to a repair shop. You can use a voltmeter examine and troubleshoot any wiring that may be the cause of the problem. Regularly inspecting and lubricating door lock's components will help reduce wear and tear. Consult a professional if still having problems with your power door lock. A specialist in car repairs has the tools and skills to perform the repair quickly and efficiently. In many instances, the repair will be covered by your warranty from the manufacturer. In some instances the broken lock may be too far gone and you will need to replace the actuator or the entire mechanism for the door latch.
Stuck Latch
A stuck latch is the most common reason for a door lock failure. This occurs when the metal latch fails to fit into the strike plate's slot correctly, causing friction. This can happen due to many factors including wood expansion and moisture. You can resolve this issue by doing some basic troubleshooting.
First, check to make sure it's the latch that is stuck rather than the handle or the cylinder that is keyed. If it is the latch, you can try a few different things to resolve it. Start by putting the latch in its position using the help of a screwdriver. This is easier than trying to use credit card since the screwdriver is able to fit into the space that the latch is situated in.
You might also want to lubricate the latch. This is a quick fix that can be done by using WD-40. You can use the straw included with the can to spray the lubricant into the latch. Once you have completed this process, you should be able feel the latch moving and loosen.
If the lubricant does not work, then you could try using needle-nose pliers for jiggling the mechanism back and back and forth. This can help to eliminate any rust that is causing the latch to not fall into place properly. If the pliers don't work, you may have to replace the latch.
A structural issue can cause the latch to become stuck. The repeated slamming could cause damage and warping to parts of the mechanism. This is particularly relevant to the rods that connect to the metal which control the movement of the latch. This could be a problem that requires the help of a professional to resolve.
Lock Cylinder
The lock cylinder is the place where you insert your keys to unlock a door or trunk. It's also where the most wear and tear could occur. If your car's doors are not locking, the cylinder may be jammed and requires lubrication to fix the problem. To lubricate the cylinder first spray some brake cleaner into it to remove any dirt or grime. Apply a thin piece, such as white grease, of lubricant in the keyhole. You can also use WD-40 that comes with a long, skinny red straw that you can stick directly into the keyhole. You can also spray a little more lubricant in the hole and turn the key a few times to spread it out and ensure everything is oiled.
Cylinder locks are also prone to a problem known as "lock snapping." This occurs when the notch on your keys wear down, or aren't the right size and position to trigger the pin tumblers inside the cylinder to move up and down. This causes a gap between upper and lower pins that prevents the cylinders from moving when they are inserted into the door lock or trunk. This could be a huge problem, as you will not be able to open the vehicle. It is also necessary to replace the cylinder.
A locked cylinder that's seized can be a hassle to resolve but it's actually simple. You can get rid of the screw that holds a cylinder in position with the help of a screwdriver. After you've removed it put it away in a safe location to ensure that you don't lose it. Then insert the key and switch it to the ACC, RUN, or START position, depending on the repair instructions for your specific vehicle. After you've done this, take out the key, and you should be in a position to pull the old cylinder from the lock housing.
The only thing more difficult than the process of lubricating the lock cylinder is removing it from your car. To accomplish this, you'll need to take off the door panel (and maybe other covers or panels) and then take off the screw that holds the cylinder in place. You'll need to make use of an awl, or a screwdriver to get the lock cylinder free.
Lost Keys
It's a terrifying feeling to reach into your purse or pocket only to discover that your keys aren't there. It is essential to always keep an extra car key with you. Store it in a place in a place where you or someone else can easily locate it. In the past, misplacing-or even losing-your keys to your car wasn't an issue. In the past, calling roadside assistance or an expert locksmith to unlock your car's door was not a big deal. Now, though, cars are more advanced and their keys have followed suit, making them more expensive to replace if you lose them.
There are many options you can take to try to gain entry into your car if you lock your keys inside it, however, you should always use caution as some of these methods are not always secure. If you have a pet or a small child who is locked in your car, do not attempt to break the windows to open them. 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 pick your car's lock with pliers or screwdrivers because it could cause more damage.
Another method to avoid locking your keys in your car is to have a locksmith create you a spare that will be readily accessible at all times. They can place it in a place that you or someone car lock repair you are confident will be able to locate it, and you should keep the spare with you to ensure that you are able to access your car when you need to.
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 create a brand new key. This is a more complicated process that could cost hundreds of dollars. If you find an online replacement chipped key, you may be able save money by hiring a professional to install it for you.