How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
You can also use lockspicks or a key opener to help. my sources can also squirt penetrating oil or linseed oils into the lock to lubricate it and get it moving freely.
It is best to leave it to a certified, 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 however, they also bring more complicated mechanisms into the vehicle. This also means that things can fail in a variety of ways. If the door lock actuator doesn't work it could be a serious issue that needs professional help. But, before you call in a mechanic, it's worth trying some basic troubleshooting methods.
Examine the battery in your key fob. If the battery is dead or close to death, it could cause the locks to stop working. This problem can be easily and inexpensively solved by replacing the battery.
A faulty power actuator is a different problem. This is a typical issue and is usually easy to identify. You can test with a multimeter whether the power is working or not. If there is power however the actuator does not respond when you hit the button for locking doors, then it might be time to replace the actuator.
You can also try to clean the contacts of the door lock actuator. It's a little more difficult than cleaning a switch but often is successful. To do this, you'll have to remove the actuator from the door's panel and then take it off. There are usually bolts that hold the exterior of the body of the lock together take them off and then remove the entire face of the lock actuator.
After removing the actuator, be careful not damage the rod connecting it to the locking mechanism. Two bolts are usually found inside the doors that contain the rod. Make sure to take them out as well. After the rod is removed, you can examine the latch and ensure that it is properly aligned to the locking post.
If not, you can insert a thin, long object between the lock and the door panel. This will release any locking mechanism so you can open your 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 do to get it working again. The first step is to change the battery. This simple step could save you from having to purchase a brand new fob. There are a lot of useful YouTube videos that demonstrate how to do this in a few easy steps.
If this doesn't help you, you might need to reprogram the fob. In most cases, this should be done by a professional. It's not always easy, as many newer vehicles include security features that have to be properly configured.
Your fob may also be damaged. Water, physical force or scratches on the circuit may cause damage. This damage is often not evident and can only be detected by opening the fob up to examine the inside. You can look for these issues by examining the fob for any signs of damage, like cracks in the circuit board, tiny electronic components that are not connected to the circuit board or loose buttons. You can also try to remove the fob from the inside and remove the battery for a closer inspection of the connections. With a flathead screwdriver you can generally pry open most fobs and gain access to the battery, however some require specialized tools or equipment only available at the dealership for your vehicle.
If the fob doesn't work, you can try opening your car doors with the physical key. If your physical key cannot unlock your car, you may need to contact an expert locksmith for more extensive repairs or visit a service center.
A faulty ignition cylinder could be the cause for your key fob not turning on or starting your vehicle. This is a costly fix and should be left to experts. If the key fob is working perfectly with the door locks, it will be capable of starting the vehicle using its inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed
If your lock does not turn even when you try to insert the key, it's likely to be a problem with the mechanism. It could be as straightforward as the tumblers getting blocked by dirt or rust, or that the pins are stuck in a partially raised position. The first thing to do is to grease the mechanism of the lock. Spray a dry lubricant such as RP7 or graphite spray into the keyway, and then insert the key several times to loosen any debris stuck in the lock cylinder. This will also help in lubricating the mechanism and prevent future problems.
You can also employ brake cleaner to lubricate lock cylinder parts and remove any rust and grime that could be obstructing the tumblers. You can buy brake cleaning fluid from many home improvement stores or auto supply stores. Avoid using oil-based products like WD-40 because they can clog up the brake mechanism over time.
The door frame could have moved due to temperature or changes in the weather. The latch or deadbolt of the door might not align correctly with the hole in the frame. It is easy to fix this issue by simply tightening the hinges on the door and replacing any damaged or damaged screws.
Checking the condition regularly of your locks is an excellent idea to regularly check the condition of your locks. This will help prevent them from being jammed or damaged, saving you money and time by not needing to contact a locksmith. Do not hesitate to contact your local mechanic who you trust in the event that you encounter a broken or locked door lock. They can identify the issue quickly and recommend the best option. They'll be glad to assist you, no matter if you require a quick fix for your power doors, or are experiencing a more serious issue.
The lock is jammed.
Locks stuck in the middle can be quite frustrating However, they are usually an unavoidable part to owning a car. Whether the lock is stuck in an unlocked position, or doesn't turn at all, you're likely to want to address it sooner rather than later, before the problem gets worse. There are quick and easy solutions that can help you get out of this tense situation.
Begin by inspecting the lock and determining what's hindering it from functioning effectively. A screw or foreign object could have loosened. If either of these problems is the case, you may be able fix the issue by cleaning out the lock, or tightening the screw. You can also attempt to straighten or fix the ball inside your lock, if they're deformed or warped due to prolonged use.
A worn-out lock could be the cause of a locked that is jammed. It won't respond to moving the knob. If your lock isn't turning when you turn the knob, it's likely time to replace it. Also, ensure that it's properly keyed to your other doors.
If your lock is truly stuck, and no amount of wriggling, or spraying with lubricant seems to solve the problem, you'll probably need to contact a professional locksmith for help. They can remove a stuck lock without causing further damage to your door or vehicle.
Sometimes, the cylinder in the lock is damaged. This could happen in the event that the lock was opened in the past, or if a lock problem was not repaired. It is recommended to check your cylinder regularly for signs of corrosion or wear and replace it when necessary. This will ensure that your car is as safe as it can be. And if the lock cylinder is damaged or cracked, it can be dangerous for your passengers and for you. So be sure to have any damaged cylinders fixed as soon as you can.