Car Door Locks Repair
Whether it's a manual lock that won't engage or a door handle that won't open, doors to cars can become stuck due to many reasons. Most often, the issue lies in the latch mechanism the mechanism itself.
The good news is that the majority of these issues can be resolved by using a few simple strategies. Learn how!
Check the Key
Over time, the tumblers inside the door lock of your car could become clogged up with dirt and rust. This can prevent the lock from working when you insert the key fob, or turn the ignition key. This can also cause the lock mechanism to become jammed. In this scenario you may need to take off the handle to access the lock mechanism. It's an easy DIY task and can be completed at home.
There are many different reasons your door latch might be stuck. It could be due to an obstruction in the latch mechanism or a problem with the electrical wiring with your key fob. Someone may have pushed the latch into a locked position while the door was open.
If you suspect that the issue is with your key be sure to check it in and out several times to check whether the tumblers move freely. This is usually a way to reset the lock.
You could also try using a lock de-icer to melt the ice and make it easier to open the door. If you're still having trouble trying to open the door, spray some multi-purpose lubricant inside the door lock mechanism. Make sure key lock repair near me is turned off prior to doing this, otherwise you could harm the latch mechanism even more.
If the lock is properly well-lubricated, it should be capable of opening it using the door handle. If you can't, then there is an issue with the latch mechanism itself, and you might need to replace it.
You can fix the latch that is stuck by using a screwdriver that can be used to manually push the latch to the final position that is unlocked. To do this, pull first the handle inside and then the outside of the car. Then using a screwdriver, apply pressure to the left leg of the latch until it is pushed upwards to the unlocked position. Repeat this process on the right leg of the latch to complete the reset. Close the door after the latch has been released to test the latch.
Check the Battery
Car door locks function by sending electronic signals from a key fob to the solenoid inside each door. It then converts the signals into a physical operation, in this case turning a rod of steel that is then able to latch the door. It can be frustrating when the doors of your car won't lock or unlock with the key fob, or from the outside or inside. It is usually possible to fix the issue without having to take your vehicle to mechanic.
The door lock mechanism could be blocked. You can check this by opening your door and examining the mechanism for the latch. You'll notice that it has "open" jaws on the end of it designed to grab the anchor in the door jamb and move into a closed position in order to connect the latch to the anchor. If the latch is closed and it doesn't rotate to the proper position, it won't engage the anchor and close the door.
You can fix this by applying WD-40 or another oil-lubricant on the inside of the door. Make use of a screwdriver to push the latch into the open position. Then, it will rotate to its normal position. This step could be difficult to complete without breaking something. It is possible to ask your family member or a friend to assist you.
After you've lubricated your latch mechanism, it's important not to try to force your key into the lock. If you try to do this, you're likely to cut the key in the lock, which could be a costly repair.
Alternatively, if you're having difficulty locking or unlocking your car using the key fob and have tried every step above, you should probably just call in a professional technician for some more advanced diagnostics and repair. They'll pinpoint the root of the issue and recommend the best solution for your vehicle and you.
Check the Wiring
A defective control module may be the reason for an inoperative door lock inside the car. These modules are responsible for the electrical locking and unlocking mechanisms. They connect to the latch and handle via a series of rods that allow them to move upwards and downwards. The system will cease to function properly when they wear out. This is a problem that occurs in older cars.
There are other issues that can cause the door to lock and then become stuck in a locked position, like grime or dirt that has accumulated on the lock mechanism, a collision, or the door handle is jammed. Sometimes, a simple lubrication will solve the problem. You can buy WD-40 or a penetrating catalyst at the home improvement stores, at auto supply stores or on the internet. Use it to lubricate the car door locks through the keyhole.
If you're unable to unlock the door using the button or key located on the inside of the car, it's recommended to examine the fuses and wiring to see if any issues could be causing the issue. If the wiring is in good condition it's likely to be related to one of the solenoids for power locks or actuators.
A professional locksmith can diagnose and repair any issues in your car door locks. They can also install new features, like smart keys that will make your vehicle more convenient in the future.
The method of removal of the interior panel and handle is different from vehicle to vehicle however the principle is the same. Generally speaking, you'll have to locate and remove all of the fasteners that keep the handle plate or panel in place and then gently pull them off without breaking them off. Then, you can access the door latch and lock actuator to determine what's going on. Once you've gotten the panel off it is possible to get to the latch that is locked by placing an screwdriver between the legs of the door latch and pushing it upwards until it reaches its final unlocked position. Then, you can close the door to verify that the latch has been reset.
Check the Actuator
The door lock actuator like any electrical device can malfunction over time. This can be due to a variety of causes, such as corrosion from exposure to water or other contaminants. Additionally, the actuator can be damaged or misaligned due to mechanical stress or over force.
One of the most common signs that the door lock actuator is starting to fail is when you are unable to unlock the doors, even if you use the key fob or manually turn on the switch inside the vehicle. This is a serious issue, as it means someone can lock the vehicle without keys.
To determine the condition of a door lock actuator, you must first check if it is receiving power from either the central locking system or the power windows control module. Then, you can test the actuator by using a digital multimeter to detect any irregular or unsteady behavior. You can also inspect the actuator to check for signs of wear and damage, and make sure that the linkage isn't blocked.
The actuator is not repairable and should be replaced if it fails. This can be done by a professional. However, you'll have to take off the front door to gain access to the actuator.
It's a good idea, before you attempt any tests on the actuator of the door lock, to wear safety glasses and consult the owner's manual of the vehicle to know about the recommended safety precautions. It is also important to ensure that you're working on a level surface and have a socket available.
To test the actuator, you will need to find the latch on the front door and the gap or hole that it is supposed to be able to latch into. After that you can insert the key or pen into the gap. Then flick/push the object towards the door using an upwards motion. If the door latch moves it's likely that the actuator is working properly and the issue is with the remote or key fob.