How to Repair Car Lock Actuator
If your power door locks do not respond when you press the lock button on your keyfob, this could be a sign that your actuator is damaged. In this instance it is usually possible to repair it by lubricating the device.
It is best to consult an experienced auto locksmith.
Locking the Door
If you've locked yourself out of your vehicle, it can be a difficult experience. However there are a few options you can try to do to get inside. If you have roadside assistance from AAA or another provider they can send a locksmith to you, but you may also be able to return to your car using DIY tools and methods. These techniques work best on cars that have doors that are powered by electricity. They can be opened using the lock button on the armrest, or a keychain.
This method requires a straightened-out wire hanger with an end with a hook or a long, solid tool that won't break when under pressure. It must be sufficient in length to reach the button for your car lock or the door handle. One end should include a hook that can catch the latch. You will also require tools like pliers to hold the hanger's ends and a pair of long tweezers to manipulate it.
First, fix car door lock will need to create an opening between the window frame and body. Place the rod or hook of the hanger into the gap that you created and then try to slide or push the door lock switch or flipper button with it. The door will open with a bit of luck.
If your vehicle is equipped with a digital lock then you'll need discover a way to unlock the doors from the inside. There is a lever within the door that can be pulled to release it, but you'll require a method to reach it. You can use a Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever.
In certain situations, none of the methods above will work, and you'll need to contact an experienced locksmith. If that's the case be sure to ask them what the cost will be before they show up.
Unblocking the Keyhole
If the lock is stuck because the key was inserted prior to it was fully engaged and locked, try gently pushing the pin tumblers into their proper position in the internal cylinder. This could solve the issue, but pushing too hard can cause further damage to the. In this case, it is best to seek out an expert locksmith.
Keep the lock lubricated with 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, insert and turn the key several times, and then play around with the key in the hole to distribute the lubricant across the mechanism.
Another item that is useful to have in your bag is powdered graphite, which works like a dry lubricant. It promotes smooth movement between metal surfaces without attracting dirt or grime, and is safe to use on locks that have internal pin tumblers. Try rubbing a few grains of the powder into the lock to help lubricate it and get rid of any gunk that may have been accumulating in the keyhole.
In the end, it's essential to replace the key frequently to ensure it's in good shape and to prevent it from becoming blocked over time. This will help it last longer and perform more efficiently.
If the key is still not turning freely or is jamming easily, it may be worn out and needs to be replaced or recut. To prevent future sticking you can use a file on the sharp edges of the key teeth. But this is a task that should be left to an expert.
If the above suggestions do not work, you may try to free the stuck key by removing the strike plate from the door frame and then filing down the lower lip of the plate to increase the size of the opening through which the key can be inserted. If this fails it is recommended to contact an expert locksmith who has the necessary tools to disassemble a car door and fix the problem. They'll have tools designed to enter the locking mechanisms to disengage them. They will also be able to identify the reason the lock isn't working correctly.
Unfreezing the Lock
Locks that freeze are common during the Polar Vortex, which brings cold temperatures and winter storms. There are a few simple tricks that you can use to free the lock and open your vehicle. The first step is to chip away any large chunks of ice that block your lock cylinder. To avoid damaging the lock cylinder or car door, it is important to take care in this process.
Another trick that is commonly used is to pour boiling water over the lock. This might work for a while, but it can damage the lock in the end and refreeze any moisture left in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock door sensor or cylinder could also trigger an electrical shock. Using metal or sharp objects to break the lock or attempt to push the key in could also damage your car door or lock, and could possibly cause a broken lock.
A better option is to heat the key using match or lighter and then insert it into the lock. Heating the key using the help of a lighter or hair dryer will create enough heat to melt away the ice that has been clinging to the lock's cylinder. This will make it easier to insert the key and open the door. If you are unable to get the key to go in completely, just warm it up again and try again. Using commercial de-icer on your key or spraying the lock with lubricant can be helpful to get rid of any ice in the lock.
An excellent idea is to park your car in the sun and let the sun help to melt the lock. This can take a while to do but it is an easy and affordable solution to a frozen lock issue. It is a good idea to keep an empty can of de-icer in your bag for times of need. The chemicals break down the ice and prevent further freezing.
Replace the Actuator
The actuator is a small motor that moves the lock via a set of gears. It can be controlled by a key in the door or remote control or keyless entry, or a central control. It is a very low-power device that will be worn out over time. When it does wear out it may create a buzzing or machine gun sound that won't stop until the actuator is replaced.
The majority of people can repair the actuator with a few tools and a bit of patience. The steps will vary between cars, as manufacturers may assemble parts differently. But the basic process remains the same. First, disconnect the battery to prevent electrical problems from occurring during the repair. Remove the door panel in a safe manner from the car. Depending on the vehicle you have, you may need to remove the window or the regulator to gain access to the actuator.
After you have removed the panel you will be able to see the actuator that is attached to the door latch. The bolts that hold it in place can usually be removed using the aid of a screwdriver. The actuator can be removed from its mount. After the new one is installed, carefully reconnect the connector to the wiring harness. Connect the rods and cables to the actuator, latch and door panel.
When the trim panel is back in place you should replace any clips that fell off during the removal. Make sure that all screws have been tightened to prevent looseness or rattle. Reconnect any wires that were cut off and test the new actuator to make sure it works. Reinstall the door panel, trim piece and battery. Then, perform another test. If your doors aren't working as they should, it might be time to replace the actuator.