How to Repair Car Lock Actuator
If your door lock's power does not respond when you press the lock button on your key fob, it may be the result of a malfunctioning actuator. In this case it is usually lubricating the actuator that will fix the problem.
However, it is recommended to talk to an experienced car locksmith.
Locking the Door
If you've locked yourself out of your car, it can be a stressful experience. However, there are some things you can try to do to get inside. If you have roadside assistance from AAA or another service they can send a locksmith, but you might also be able get back into your car using DIY tools and techniques. These methods will be most effective on vehicles with power door locks, which can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest or using the keychain.
To use this method it is necessary to have a wire hanger, which is straightened out and turned into a hook at one end, or some other long, rigid tool that won't break under pressure. It will need to be sufficient in length to reach the door handle or lock button, and it should have a small hook on one end that can catch the latch inside the door. You will also need pliers as well as long tweezers to adjust the hanger.
The first step is to create an opening between the window frame and body. Put the rod or hook of the hanger into the gap that you created and then try to slide it or press the door lock switch or flipper button with it. The door should then open with a bit of luck.
If your car has an electronic lock, you will need to find a way to open the door from inside without knowing the code. There is a lever in the door that can be pulled to unlock it, however you will require a method to reach it. You can use the Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever.
In some cases, none of the above methods will work, and you will have to call a locksmith for help. If this is the case, ensure that you ask how much it will cost before they arrive.
Unjamming the Keyhole
If the lock is jammed due to the key was not fully engaged then gently push the pin tumblers back into the correct alignment inside the cylinder's interior. It may solve the problem, but pushing too hard can cause further damage to the. In this instance, it is best to call an expert locksmith.
A great way to avoid stuck keys is making sure the lock is lubricated using graphite spray or a silicone-based product. These products are superior to oil-based products such as WD-40 which can attract dirt and dust. Apply the product to the lock. Turn the key several times. Then, jiggle the keys in the hole.
Another helpful item to keep on hand is powdered graphite, which functions like a dry oil lubricant. It allows for smooth movement between metal surfaces without attracting dirt or grime, and is safe to use on locks that have internal pin tumblers. Rub a few grains of the powder inside the lock. This will help to lubricate the lock and get rid of any gunk that might have been accumulating around the keyhole.
It's also crucial to replace your key frequently to ensure it stays in good shape and to keep it from becoming jammed over time. This will also make it last longer and perform more efficiently.
If the key isn't turning freely or is easily jammed or jammed, the key may be worn and need replacement or a key recut. You can employ a file to smooth the sharp edges of the key teeth to prevent future sticking but this is an activity for a professional.
If the above suggestions do not work, you may try to free the key stuck by removing the strike plate from the door frame and filing down the lower edge of the plate to increase the size of the opening into which the key can be inserted. If this fails it is recommended to contact an expert locksmith who has the tools needed to disassemble a locked car door and fix the issue. They will have special tools that are designed to get into the locking mechanisms to detach them, and they will be able to determine why the lock isn't working correctly.
Unfreezing the Lock
With the Polar Vortex bringing cold temperatures and winter storms freezing lock problems are very common. There are a few simple tricks that you can use to unfreeze the lock and unlock your vehicle. First, try to chip away any large chunks of ice that block your lock's cylinder. It is crucial to take caution when doing this to avoid damaging your car door or lock cylinder.
Another trick that is commonly used is to pour boiling water onto the lock. While this might work at first however, it can harm your lock in the long term and will likely re-freeze any moisture which is still in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock door sensor or cylinder could cause the door sensor to experience a thermal shock. It is also possible to harm the car lock or door by using metal or sharp objects.
A better alternative is to heat the key using matches or a lighter and then insert it into the lock. It is best to heat the key using a lighter or hairdryer to melt the ice that is covering the lock cylinder. This will enable you to turn the key and unlock the door. If you're unable to get the key to enter completely, just heat it up again and try again. Using a commercial de-icer on your key or spraying the lock with a lubricant can be helpful to remove any ice that has formed on the lock.
www.g28carkeys.co.uk is to park your car in the sun and let the light help melt the lock. It could take a while, but this is an inexpensive and easy solution to a lock that is frozen. A de-icer bottle in your car for times like this is an excellent idea since the chemicals will quickly break down any ice and prevent future freezing.
Replace the Actuator
The actuator is the small motor that moves the lock through a series of gears. It can be activated by turning a key inside the door, pressing the button on the remote device or using keyless entry or by activating it through the central control unit. It is a low-power device that will be worn out over time. If it wears out, it will produce a buzzing sound or machine gun noise that will continue to reverberate until the actuator is replaced.
Replacing the actuator can be an easy task for people with basic tools and a bit of patience. The steps differ between vehicles, as manufacturers might put together parts in different ways. However, the basic procedure remains the same. Disconnect the battery first to avoid electrical problems during the repair. After that, remove the door panel from the car. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to take off the window or the regulator in order to access the actuator.
Once you have removed the panel, you will be in a position to see the actuator mounted to the door latch. The bolts that hold it in place will usually be removed using the help of a screwdriver. The actuator is then removed from its mount. After the new one is in place, reconnect the connector to the wiring harness. Reconnect the rods and cables to the latch, actuator and door panel.
Replace any clips that may have fallen off during removal. Double check all screws to ensure that they are properly tightened. This will prevent any looseness or rattle. Reconnect any wires that were cut off and test the new actuator to make sure it functions. Install the door panel, trim piece and battery. Then, perform another test. If your doors don't function as they should be then it's time to replace your actuator.