How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
You can also use keys or locks with a key opener to help. You can also squirt penetrating oil or linseed oil into the lock to lubricate it and make it move freely again.
It is recommended to leave it to a professional, licensed locksmith who is licensed, certified and certified. Here are four key lock problems that they can fix:
Power door locks don't work
Door locks with power are useful but they also introduce more complicated mechanisms into the car. This means that there are many possibilities for things to go wrong, too. If the door lock actuator doesn't work it could be a serious issue that requires expert assistance. However, before calling in a mechanic try some simple troubleshooting techniques.
Check the battery in your key fob. If it's dead or almost dead, it will result in the locks not to function. This problem is easily and cheaply resolved by replacing the battery.
Another possible issue is that the power actuator itself might be defective. This is a frequent issue and is typically straightforward to identify. You can test with a multimeter if the power is reaching or not. If it is but the actuator isn't responding to the door lock button, then it's likely time to replace it.
You could also try cleaning the contacts inside the door lock actuator. This is more involved than cleaning switches however it's usually enough to resolve the issue. To accomplish this, you'll need to remove the actuator from the door panel and take it apart. There are usually bolts holding the exterior section of the body, so unscrew them and then take out the entire body of the actuator.
Once you've removed the actuator, it's important to be cautious not to damage the rod that connects it to the lock mechanism. There are usually two more bolts in the interior of the door that hold the rod in place therefore, you must remove them as well. After the rod has been removed then you can open the door and examine the latch to ensure it's properly aligned with the locking post.
If it's not possible, you can use a long, thin object to place between the door panel and the lock. This should release the locking mechanism so you can open the door manually.
The key fob isn't working
It can be frustrating when your car key fob isn't working. There are several things you can try to get it working again. The first step is to change the battery. This is a simple step that can save you the expense of replacing the entire fob. YouTube offers a variety of useful videos that will help you accomplish this in a couple of easy steps.
If this doesn't help it may be necessary to reset the fob. In the majority of cases, this can be done by an expert. It's not easy since many of the latest cars include security features that have to be set up correctly.
Your fob could also be damaged. Physical force, water or scratches on the circuit may cause damage. The majority of the time, the damage isn't obvious and can only be detected by opening up the fob and looking inside. You can check if there are any issues by inspecting the fob. Check for signs of damage such as cracks on the circuit board, or tiny electronic components that are not fully attached to circuit board. You can also open the fob to take out the battery and take a more detailed look. It is possible to pry the fobs using a flathead, however certain ones require special tools and equipment that is only available at the dealership.
You can also try using the physical key to open your car's doors in the event that the fob isn't working. If your physical key cannot unlock your car, you might need to contact locksmiths for more serious repairs or visit a service center.
If your key fob doesn't turn on or turn your car on, it may be due to a malfunctioning ignition cylinder. This is a very costly fix and should be left to experts. If the key fob is working with the door locks then it's possible to start the vehicle through the inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed
If you are unable to 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 an 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 the mechanism and help prevent future problems.
You can also use brake cleaning fluid to help lubricate the parts of a lock cylinder and to remove any rust or grime that could be obstructing the tumblers. You can purchase brake cleaning fluid at most auto store or home improvement stores. It is recommended to avoid products containing oil, such as WD-40 since they can block the brake mechanism over time.
Another common problem that can cause the door locks to jam is that the door frame has moved in time due to weather and temperature changes. This could cause the latch or deadbolt on the door to no longer line up correctly with the hole in the door frame. This issue can be easily fixed by tightening hinges and reinstalling damaged or stripped screws.
It is always recommended to inspect the condition of your door locks regularly. This will prevent them from getting damaged or jammed and help you avoid the time and expense of calling a locksmith assistance. If you discover that you've locked your vehicle or a damaged door lock, don't hesitate to call your local mechanic who you trust for advice and assistance. They will be able diagnose the problem quickly and recommend the best solution. They will be happy to assist you, no matter if you need an immediate fix to your power doors or having a more serious problem.
The lock is stuck
Stuck locks are a frustrating, but often unavoidable part of owning a vehicle. If your lock is locked but not in a secure position, or simply won't turn at all, you're likely need to take action sooner rather than later, before your issue gets worse. There are fortunately a few quick and easy solutions that will get you out of this sticky situation.
Start by examining the lock to determine what is preventing its operation. Sometimes, a foreign object may be caught in the lock, or a screw can 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 balls of the lock if they've become damaged or warped from repeated use.
A worn-out lock may also be the cause of a locked that is jammed. It won't respond to moving the knob. If your lock has stopped turning when you turn the knob, it's time to replace it and ensure that it's properly keyed to your other doors.
If your lock is stuck and no amount of wriggling or spraying lubricant seems to solve the problem, you'll probably need to call an expert locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to safely take out a lock that's stuck without causing damage to your car or door.
In some instances, the lock cylinder itself may be damaged. This could be the case in the event that the lock was forced open prior to the incident, or if a lock issue was not addressed. It is recommended to examine your cylinder on a regular basis for signs of wear or corrosion, and replace it as necessary. door lock installation will help ensure that your vehicle is as secure as possible. And if the lock cylinder is damaged or cracked, it can be an extremely risk to the safety of your passengers and you. Be sure to fix any damaged cylinders as fast as you can.