How to Repair Car Lock Actuator If your door locks that are powered do not respond when you press the locking button on your keyfob, this could be a sign that your actuator has failed. In such a case, you can usually fix it by lubricating your actuator. It is, however, recommended to talk to a professional car locksmith. Unlocking the Door If you've locked yourself out of your vehicle, it can be a stressful experience. However, there are some things you can try to get inside. If you're a member of AAA or another service with roadside assistance, they'll send a locksmith to help you, but you might also be able back inside using DIY tools and techniques. These methods will work best with cars that have power door locks that can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest, or using keys. To make this method work it is necessary to have a wire hanger, which is straightened out and turned into a hook at one end, or other long, stiff tool that will not be able to bend under pressure. It should be long enough to reach either the car lock button or the door handle. One end should have a hook to catch the latch. Also, you will require a tool such as pliers to hold the end of the hanger and a pair of tweezers for manipulating the hanger. The first step is to create an opening between the window frame and body. Then, insert the rod or hook from the hanger into the gap you've created, and then try to move or push the door lock flipper or button using it. With a bit of luck the door will be opened. If your car is equipped with a digital lock, then you'll need discover a way to open the doors from the inside. You can pull a lever on the inside of the door to open it, but first you need to know how to access it. A Slim Jim can be used for this purpose, or a similar long tool that can be inserted into the gap between the window and the door. In certain situations there are instances when none of the above methods will be effective, and you'll need to call a locksmith for help. If that's the case, ensure that you ask what they will charge before they arrive. Unblocking the Keyhole If the lock is stuck because the key was inserted prior to it was fully engaged Try gently pushing the pin tumblers into their proper position in the internal cylinder. It may solve the problem however, pushing too hard can cause further damage. In this case, it is best to seek out an expert locksmith. Keep the lock lubricated using graphite spray or a silicone-based product. These are better than oil-based products, such as WD-40, which tend to attract more dirt and debris. Apply the product to the lock, insert and turn the key several times, and then move the key around into the hole to distribute the lubricant throughout the mechanism. Powdered graphite is a different product you should have in your toolbox. It works like a dry oil lubricant. It promotes smooth movement between metal surfaces without attracting dirt or grime, and it's also safe to use on locks with internal pin tumblers. Rub some grains of powder inside the lock. This will lubricate the lock and eliminate any gunk that might have built up around the keyhole. Lastly, it's important to replace the key regularly to keep it in good condition and prevent it from getting blocked over time. This will help it last longer and perform more efficiently. If the key isn't moving freely or is easily jammed, the key itself may be worn and need replacement or a key recut. To prevent sticking, you can use a file to smooth the sharp points of the key teeth. But this is a task that should be left to a professional. If the above tips do not work If you are unable to solve the problem, attempt to remove the key that is stuck by removing strike plate from door frame. You will need to file down the lower lip to make it larger opening where the key is placed. If this isn't successful it is recommended to contact locksmiths who have the necessary tools to disassemble a locked car door and fix the problem. They'll have the tools to disengage the locking mechanisms, and be able determine the reason why the lock isn't working properly. Unfreezing the Lock With the Polar Vortex bringing cold temperatures and winter storms locks that are frozen are quite common. The good news is that there are simple tricks to unfreezing the lock to unlock your car. The first thing to do is try to chip away any large chunks of ice that are blocking the lock cylinder from receiving the key. It is important to use caution when doing this to keep from damaging your car's door or the lock cylinder. Another common trick is to pour boiling water on the lock. While this might work at first however, it can harm your lock over the long haul and likely re-freeze any moisture that remains inside the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock cylinder can cause thermal shock, which can cut off modern electronics in the lock cylinder as well as the door sensor. You can also cause damage to the car lock or door with sharp or metal objects. It is recommended to heat the key by using matches or a lighter, and then insert it into the lock. It is best to heat the key using lighter or a hairdryer to melt the ice that is covering the lock cylinder. This will make it easier to turn the key to unlock the door. If you cannot get the key all the way into the lock it up again and try again. electronic lock repair near me can get rid of ice from your lock by spraying a grease on the lock, or using a commercial deicer. Another idea is to park your car in the sun and let the light help melt the lock. This may take a while to accomplish, but it's an easy and affordable solution for a frozen lock issue. It is a good idea to keep an empty can of de-icer in your bag for such emergencies. The chemicals break the ice and stop further freezing. Replace the Actuator The actuator is a tiny motor that moves the lock using a set of gears. It can be controlled by a key in the door or remote control, keyless entry or a central control. It uses a very small amount of power to operate and will wear out over time. It is prone to be worn out and create an eerie sound or machine gun sound that will not stop unless the actuator is replaced. Replacing the actuator can be an easy task for the majority of people with basic tools and a bit of perseverance. The steps may vary slightly between cars since manufacturers put the components together differently, but the basic process is the same. First, disconnect the battery to avoid electrical issues during the repair. Remove the door panel in a safe manner from the vehicle. Depending on the car you might also have to remove the regulator and/or window to gain access to the actuator. After removing the panel you will see the actuator attached to the door latch. Usually, the bolts that hold the actuator in place can be removed using the aid of a screwdriver. The actuator is then pulled out of its mount. After the new one is installed, carefully reinstall the connector that goes to the wiring harness. Once it is connected, reconnect any rods or cables that connect to the actuator and latch and then place the door panel back in its place. When the trim panel is reinstalled, you should replace any clips that fell off during the removal. Double check all screws to ensure they are tightened properly. This will avoid any rattle or looseness. Reconnect all wires that were disconnected and test the actuator to confirm it works. Install the door panel, trim piece, and battery. Then, conduct another test. If your doors don't work as they should, it may be time to replace your actuator.
electronic lock repair near me
