15 Unexpected Facts About Auto Door Lock Repair That You Didn't Know About

Auto Door Lock Repair – Replacing the Door Lock Actuator Many modern vehicles have automated door locks. Like all moving parts they are susceptible to malfunction or breakdown. If your power locks do not function, it could be a sign of an electrical issue, such as a faulty relay or battery. Try applying WD-40 to the area or penetrating catalyst. This will usually resolve the issue. Rekeying Rekeying an auto door lock involves modifying the internal components to accommodate a different key configuration, enhancing vehicle security while maintaining the control of access. The process of rekeying enables DIY enthusiasts to tackle many security concerns, and the careless attention to the finer points of this job sets the stage for reliability. Modern car locks use a pin and tumbler mechanism, where the ridges of a key align with the pins of a lock's cylinder to trigger the shear line, which opens the latch mechanism to allow entry. Rekeying involves changing the pin and tumbler configuration to match a different key while maintaining the proper alignment of shear lines. fix car door is to prevent unauthorized key usage. The lock cylinder could also incorporate built-in security features, such as anti-drill and anti-pick pins to discourage break-in attempts. The process of rekeying an auto door lock begins by removing the lock cylinder from the outer housing, then disassembling and reassembling the core. The key cylinder then gets installed back into the housing's exterior and the linkage to the lock handle and fasteners are reattached. The lock cylinder has to be tested to ensure that it functions properly and effectively using the new key. To ensure that you don't damage the lock or its parts for safety, you'll require the right tools to rekey an automobile lock. Depending on the lock, the tools and materials you will require include: Plug followers are required to remove the plug without scattering pins. Pinning mat: The pinning mat is used to keep and organize the pins while making the lock rekeyable. Set of precision screwdrivers Sets of screwdrivers will make it easier to disassemble and reassemble the lock cylinder. Tweezers: Tweezers that are precise are helpful in manipulating and removing small springs and other components. Rekeying the lock of your car is a relatively simple project, but it can take several hours. Consider this when planning the key rekeying. Don't forget to add extra time for any unexpected delays or issues. It is also a good idea to consult a professional for professional assistance. Replacement The door lock actuator is a crucial component that controls the power locks on most cars. When they're functioning properly, they will retract and then engage the latch when you press the button on your key fob or inside your vehicle to lock or unlock it. If you're having issues with your power locks, it could be time to replace the door lock actuator. The actuator is an electrical component that can fail prematurely due to corrosion caused by moisture, dust and other contaminants. Door lock actuators can also fail before it's time if it's physically damaged as a result of an accident or failure in the effort to jimmy the lock open. The use of inferior components could cause premature failure, or even complete failure of the door actuator for the lock. A common indication of a malfunctioning actuator is when the door locks aren't responding to the key fob or buttons inside the vehicle. When you attempt to activate the door lock, it makes an eerie sound or rattles. Replacing a door lock actuator is a relatively simple job that auto repair shops typically do in just one or two hours. They'll need to take off the door panel and the window, then they will need to remove the inner door liner as well as the lock control rod and the door handle control rod. The electrical wiring and the lock rods will also need to be disconnected. Installing the new actuator in the door is the next step. They will then connect the rods, cables and replace any damaged clips. A new door lock actuator could cost between $125 and $250 depending on the model and make of your car. If you choose to complete the repair yourself, you'll require a few simple tools to help with the procedure. These include a door handle remover that can be used for crank windows (about $7 at any automotive parts store) and an offset screwdriver with a flat blade. When replacing the power locking actuator, it's important not to reuse the old latch rod or cable for the door lock. This will cause your new lock to fail. Repair Modern vehicles come with power door locks controlled by actuators. They are more complex than mechanical lock cylinders found on older vehicles and may be more difficult to repair in the event of a break. There are several ways to repair them and they are generally not expensive. Whether it is due to physical or electrical problems or simply wear and tear over time the door lock on your car may need to be replaced. One of the most common causes of a power door lock that doesn't work is a blown fuse. The doors depend on this fuse to send a signal which activates the motor and can open or close the door. This fuse is easy to replace and relatively inexpensive. A worn-out actuator is another possible problem. A faulty actuator can be detected by a variety of indicators, including irregular door lock operation as well as unusual sounds. You can test the actuator using an electronic multimeter. If the multimeter shows that the actuator is powered but it is unable to activate the power locks, then the actuator is probably defective. The best way to diagnose an actuator that is malfunctioning is to remove the door panel and visually examine it. The actuator is usually located near the handle. You can also try to move the lock mechanism by wriggling it up and down while pressing the button to lock or unlock the vehicle. If the mechanism isn't broken or loose, it is probably just jammed. WD-40 is a great solvent to use to free a mechanism. A can of this solvent is sold at many home improvement stores and automotive supply stores, and it is relatively affordable. Make use of straws that are long and thin to get the lubricant inside the lock. If the lock still feels stuck, you can try using a penetrating catalyst to reduce corrosion and restore function. If the lock still is not working after trying all of these methods, it's likely that you need to contact a professional. Installation It's a huge problem if your car's door lock isn't working as it should. It can also cause driving to be dangerous. The good part is that door locks for autos aren't that difficult to fix and often be repaired to working condition without the need for replacement. The doors of your vehicle are a vital security feature. Most people only think about them when they stop working. A car door lock is controlled by a complicated set of mechanical components, which includes a control rod and latch. Based on the model, these components can be controlled by the key fob or internal buttons. When the body controller receives a signal from the key fob or from the interior buttons, it transmits that signal to the actuator, which in turn moves the latch and handle. A faulty actuator can cause the door locks that are powered by electricity to stop working, which is bad for your security as well as convenience. A faulty actuator may also affect other electrical systems in some modern cars that are incorporated with the locking system. There are some common signs that the door lock actuator in your car is not working properly. The most common signs of a malfunctioning door lock actuator are inconsistent operation and unusual noises. For instance, if your power door locks aren't functioning when you press the key fob button, you may hear a peculiar buzzing or the sound of whirring. This is because the actuator is not properly connecting to the latch and anchor. If you're experiencing these signs the best thing you can do is contact an expert locksmith. They'll be able to evaluate the situation and figure out the best way to bring your door locks to functioning condition. A professional locksmith can tackle more complex issues. In most instances an expert locksmith will solve the issue and restore the auto door locks to their original condition.