How to Repair Car Lock Actuator
If your power door lock does not respond when you press the lock button on your key fob, it may be an indication of a fried actuator. In such a case you can usually fix it by lubricating the device.
It is best to talk to an experienced auto locksmith.
Unlocking the door
If you've locked yourself out of your car, it can be a stressful experience. However, there are some things you can do to get inside. If you're a part of AAA or another service with roadside assistance, they'll send a locksmith to help you, but you might also be able to get back in using some DIY tools and techniques. These methods work best on cars with doors that have power locks. They can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest or using the keychain.
This method requires a straightened-out wire hanger that has an end with a hook or another long, rigid tool which won't bend when under pressure. It must be long enough to reach either the button for your car lock or the door handle. The other end must have a hook to hold the latch. You will also need pliers and long tweezers in order to manipulate the hanger.
You will first need to create a gap between the top of the window frame for your car and the body. Then, slide the rod or hook from the hanger through the opening you have created, and then try to move or push the door lock flipper or button using it. With a little luck the door will then open.
If your car is equipped with a digital lock then you'll need find a way to unlock the doors from the inside. You can pull a lever on the inside of the door to unlock it however, you must first to figure out how to get to it. A Slim Jim can be used to accomplish this, or a similar long tool that can be put into the gap between the window and the door.
In some cases, none of the above methods will work, and you will need to call locksmith assistance. Ask car central locking repairs near me how much they'll charge prior to their arrival.
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 correct alignment in the internal cylinder. This may help solve the issue, but pushing too hard can cause more damage to the. In this situation it is recommended to contact an expert locksmith.
A great way to avoid a stuck key is by keeping the lock lubricated with graphite spray or a silicone-based item. These products are superior to oil-based products such as WD-40 which tend to attract dirt and other debris. Apply the product on the lock. Inject and turn the key a few times. Then jiggle the keys in the hole.
Powdered graphite is another item that you should keep in your toolbox. It acts as a dry fluid. It allows for smooth movement, without drawing dirt and grime. It is safe to use on locks with internal pin tumblers. Try rub a few grains the powder inside the lock to make it lubricate and clear away any gunk that has accumulated in the keyhole.
Lastly, it's important to replace the key regularly to ensure it's in good condition and prevent it from becoming stuck over time. This will allow it to last longer and work more efficiently.
If the key still doesn't turn freely or is prone to jamming or jammed, the key may be worn and requires replacement or a key recut. To prevent future sticking you can use a file on the sharp edges of the key teeth. But, this is a job that should be left to a professional.
If the above suggestions aren't working, you can try to get rid of the key stuck on by removing the strike plate the door frame. You will have to sand down the lower lip to increase the size opening into which the key can be placed. If this fails, call an experienced locksmith who will have the tools required to remove the lock from the door. They'll have 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
Locks that freeze are common during the Polar Vortex, which brings cold temperatures and winter storms. There are a few quick techniques you can employ to free the lock and then open your vehicle. First, try to chip away any large chunks of ice that block your lock's cylinder. To avoid damaging the lock cylinder or car door, it is important to take care in this process.
Pouring boiling water over the lock is a popular technique. While this might work at first, it can damage your lock in the long haul and likely re-freeze any moisture that remains inside the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock or door sensor could also cause the door sensor to experience a thermal shock. Using metal or sharp objects to break at the lock or try to force the key in can also cause damage to your car's door or lock and potentially result in a broken lock.
An alternative is to heat the key using match or lighter and then insert it into the lock. It is best to heat the key using a hairdryer or lighter to melt the ice covering the lock cylinder. This will enable you to turn the key and unlock the door. If you are unable to get the key fully into the lock, heat it again and try again. Using a commercial deicer on your key or spraying the lock with lubricant can be helpful to remove any ice that has formed on the lock.
Another idea is to park your car in the sun and let the sunlight help to melt the lock. It can take some time to do but it is an extremely simple and cost-effective solution to a locked that is frozen issue. It is a good idea to keep an empty can of de-icer in your bag in case of an emergency. The chemicals break the ice and stop further freezing.
Replace the Actuator
The actuator is a tiny motor that moves the lock through a series of gears. It can be activated by a key in the door, a remote control or keyless entry, or a central control. It uses a tiny amount of power and is prone to wear out over time. If it wears out, it will make a buzzing or machine gun sound that will not stop until the actuator is replaced.
Most people can replace the actuator with a few tools and patience. The steps vary from car to vehicles, as manufacturers might put together parts in different ways. However, the fundamental 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 may also need to remove the window and/or regulator in order to gain access to the actuator.
After removing the panel, you can see the actuator attached to the door latch. Usually the bolts that hold the actuator in place can be removed with a screwdriver. The actuator is then pulled out of its mount. After the new actuator is installed, make sure you connect the connector to the wiring harness. Once that is reconnected to the wiring harness, connect any rods or cables that are attached to the actuator and latch and then put the door panel back into position.
Replace any clips that may have fallen off during removal. Verify that all screws are tightened again to avoid looseness or rattle. Reconnect all wires disconnected and test the actuator to confirm it is working. Install the door panel, trim piece, and battery. Then, run another test. If your doors don't function as they should it could be time to replace the actuator.