How to Repair Car Lock Actuator
If your power door lock fails to respond when you press the lock button on your key fob, it may be a sign of a fried actuator. In this case it is usually lubricating the actuator that will fix the problem.
It is best to talk to a professional auto locksmith.
Unlocking the door
If you've locked yourself out of your car, it could be a difficult experience. However there are some things you can try to get inside. If you're a member of AAA or another organization with roadside assistance, they will send a locksmith to help you, but you may be able to get back inside using DIY tools and methods. These methods will work best on cars with power door locks, which can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest or using a keychain.
For this method it is necessary to have a wire hanger, straightened out and turned into a hook on one end, or some other long, rigid tool that isn't prone to bend under pressure. It will need to be long enough to reach the door handle or the lock button, and should include a hook on one end that can catch the latch inside the door. It will also require pliers and long tweezers in order to manipulate the hanger.
You will first need to create a gap between the top of the window frame for your car and the body. Insert the rod or hook of the hanger into the gap you created and then try to slide or press the door lock flipper button or switch using it. The door should then open with a little luck.
If your car is equipped with a digital lock, you'll need to figure out a way to open the door from the inside without knowing the code. You can pull a lever located on the inside of the door to open it however, you must first to figure out how to access it. A Slim Jim can be used for this purpose or a similar tool that can be put into the gap between the window and the door.
In some cases, none of the above methods will be effective, and you'll require an expert locksmith. Ask them what they'll charge before they show up.
Keyholes that aren't jamming Keyhole
If the lock is jammed due to the key was not fully engaged then gently push the pin tumblers back to the proper alignment within the cylinder's interior. This may fix the problem However, pushing too hard could cause further damage, so it is recommended to contact a locksmith for such an problem.
An effective way to avoid stuck keys is by making sure the lock is lubricated using graphite spray or a silicone-based product. These products are better than oil based products such as WD-40 which can attract dirt and debris. Apply the product to the lock. Insert and turn the key several times. Then, jiggle the keys into the hole.
Another helpful item to keep in your arsenal is powdered graphite that functions like a dry fluid. It allows for smooth movement, without getting rid of grime and dirt. It's safe to use with locks with internal pin tumblers. Try rubbing a few grains of the powder into the lock to lubricate it and clear away any gunk that might have accumulated in the keyhole.
It is also essential to replace your key frequently to ensure that it is in good shape and to keep it from becoming jammed in the future. This will help it last longer and work more efficiently.
If the key isn't moving freely or is jammed easily, the key itself may be worn and need replacement or a key cut. You can employ a file to smooth out the sharp points on the key teeth to prevent future sticking but this is a job for a professional.
If the above suggestions don't work, you can try to get rid of the key stuck by taking the strike plate off the door frame and then filing down the lower edge of the plate to increase the size of the opening through where the key is placed. If this isn't successful it is recommended to contact a locksmith who has the necessary tools to take apart a locked car door and fix the problem. They'll have the tools to remove the locking mechanisms, and be in a position to determine the reason what is causing the lock to not function properly.
Unfreezing the Lock
Locks that are frozen are commonplace during the Polar Vortex, which brings cold temperatures and winter storms. There are a few quick techniques you can employ to defrost the lock and unlock your vehicle. The first thing to do is to try and take away the large chunks of ice that are blocking the lock cylinder from accepting the key. To avoid damaging the lock cylinder or door, it is crucial to take care when doing this.
Another common trick is to pour boiling water on the lock. It may work initially, but it can damage the lock over time and then refreeze any moisture in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock or door sensor could cause a thermal shock. You could also harm the door lock or car lock by using metal or sharp objects.
A better alternative is to heat the key with a lighter or match and then insert it into the lock. Heating the key with the help of a lighter or hair dryer will create enough heat to melt the ice that is coating the lock cylinder and make it easier for you to turn the key in and unlock the door. If lock repairing near me 're not able to get the key to go in all the way, simply warm it up again and try again. You can get rid of ice from your lock by spraying a lubricant on the lock or using a commercial de-icer.
An excellent idea is to leave your car parked in the sun, and let the sun to melt the lock. It might take a while, but this is an easy and inexpensive solution to a locked that has frozen. It is advisable to keep a de-icer can in your car for emergencies such as this is also beneficial as the chemicals are able to dissolve any ice and prevent future freezing.
Replacing the Actuator
The actuator is a tiny motor that moves the lock through a series of gears. It can be controlled by keys in the door, a remote control, keyless entry or a central control. It is a very low-power device which can wear out over time. It can be worn out and create the sound of a buzzing or machine gun sound that won't stop until the actuator is changed.
The majority of people can replace the actuator with a few tools and a bit of patience. The steps will vary between vehicles, as manufacturers might put together parts in different ways. However, the basic process remains the same. First, disconnect the battery to avoid electrical issues from occurring during the repair. Remove the door panel carefully from the car. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to take off the window or the regulator to access the actuator.
After removing the panel, you can see the actuator attached to the door latch. The bolts holding it in place can usually be removed with the aid of a screwdriver. The actuator is then pulled out of its mount. After the new one is in place, reinstall the connector that goes to the wiring harness. After that to the wiring harness, connect any rods or cables that connect to the actuator and latch and put the door panel back in its place.
Replace any clips that have fallen off during the removal. Verify that all of the screws are tightened again to avoid rattle or looseness. Reconnect any wires that were disconnected and test the new actuator to ensure it works. If it does, reinstall the door panel as well as the trim piece, then reconnect the battery and run a second test to make sure the locks are operating exactly as they should. If your doors aren't functioning as they should it could be time to replace the actuator.