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 damaged actuator. In this case it is usually possible to fix it by lubricating your actuator.
It is best to talk to an experienced auto locksmith.
Unlocking the door
If you've locked yourself out of your vehicle, it can be a difficult experience. However, there are some things you can do to get inside. If you are a member of AAA or another organization that offers roadside assistance, they'll send a locksmith to help you, however, you may also be able to get back in using some DIY tools and methods. These methods work best for vehicles that have doors that are powered by electricity. They can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest, or a keychain.
For this method, you will need a wire hanger, which is straightened out and turned into a hook at one end, or some other long, rigid tool that won't bend under pressure. It should be sufficient in length to reach the car door handle or lock button, and must have a hook at one end to catch the latch inside the door. You will also require pliers and long tweezers to manipulate the hanger.
You'll first have to make a space between the top of the window frame of your car and the body. Put the rod or hook of the hanger into the gap you created and then try to slide or push the door lock flipper button or switch using it. The door should open with a bit of luck.
If your vehicle is equipped with a digital lock, then you'll need to find a method to open the doors from inside. There is a lever inside the door that can be pulled to open it, however you will have to figure out a way to reach it. You can make use of a Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever.
In some cases some cases, none of these methods will work, and you will have to call an expert locksmith. If this is the case, make sure you ask them what the cost will be before they show up.
Unjamming Keyhole
If the lock is stuck due to the key was inserted before it was fully engaged Try gently pushing the pin tumblers back into their proper alignment within the internal cylinder. It may solve the problem however, pushing too hard can cause further damage. In this situation it is recommended to contact a locksmith.
A good way to prevent a stuck key is by keeping the lock lubricated with graphite spray or a silicone-based product. These are better than oil-based products, such as WD-40, which can attract dirt and other debris. Apply vehicle lock repair G28CarKeys to the lock. Inject and turn the key several times. Then, jiggle the keys into the hole.
Powdered graphite is another product you should have in your toolbox. It works like a dry fluid. It helps to ensure smooth movement without attracting dirt and grime. It is safe to use on locks that have internal pin tumblers. Try rubbing a few grains of the powder inside the lock to make it lubricate and remove any gunk that has been accumulating in the keyhole.
It's also important to replace your key frequently to ensure it stays in good shape and to keep it from becoming jammed over time. This will allow it to last longer and work more efficiently.
If the key isn't moving freely or is jammed easily it could be worn out and require replacement or a key cut. You can make use of an instrument to smooth the sharp points on the key teeth to avoid any further sticking, but this is a job for professionals.
If the above suggestions don't work, you can try to free the stuck key by removing the strike plate from the door frame, and then filing down the lower portion of the plate to increase the size of the opening through which the key can be inserted. If this isn't successful it is recommended to contact locksmiths who have the tools required to disassemble a car door and fix the problem. They will have tools to detach the locking mechanisms and be able determine what is causing the lock to not function correctly.
Unfreezing the Lock
With the Polar Vortex bringing cold temperatures and winter storms locks that are frozen are common. The good news is that there are simple ways to free the lock to open your car. First, try to chip away any large chunks of ice that block your lock's cylinder. To avoid damaging the lock cylinder or door, it is essential to be careful in this process.
Another method is to pour boiling water on the lock. While this might work at first however, it can harm your lock over the long term and will likely re-freeze any moisture which is still in the lock's cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock cylinder or door sensor can cause the door sensor to experience a thermal shock. You could also damage the car lock or door by using sharp or metal 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 make it easier to turn the key to unlock the door. If you are unable to get the key in completely into the lock, warm it again and try again. Using commercial de-icer on your key or spraying the lock with a lubricant can be helpful to get rid of any ice in the lock.
An excellent idea is to leave your car parked in the sun and let the sun thaw out the lock. It can take some time to complete, but it's a very simple and inexpensive solution for a frozen lock problem. It is recommended to keep a can de-icer on hand for such emergencies. The chemicals break down the ice and stop further freezing.
Replacing the Actuator
The actuator is a tiny motor that powers the lock via a series of gears. It can be controlled by a key in the door or remote control or keyless entry central control. It is a very low-power device which can be worn out over time. It can wear out and make an eerie sound or machine gun sound that won't stop unless the actuator is replaced.
Replacing the actuator is an easy task for people using a basic tool and a bit of patience. The steps vary from car to vehicles, as manufacturers might put together parts in different ways. However, the basic procedure is the same. First remove the battery to prevent electrical issues from occurring during the repair. After that, remove the door panel from the. Depending on the car you may also need to remove the regulator and/or window in order to gain access to the actuator.
Once you've removed the panel, you'll be visible the actuator that is attached to the door latch. The bolts holding it in place will usually be removed with the help of a screwdriver. The actuator can then be pulled out of its mount. After the new one is installed, carefully reinstall the connector that goes to the wiring harness. Once that is reconnected to the wiring harness, connect any cables or rods connected to the latch and actuator and put the door panel back in position.
Replace any clips that have fallen off during removal. Verify that all screws are re-tightened to prevent rattle or looseness. Reconnect any wires that were disconnected and test the new actuator to make sure it is working. If it does, reinstall the door panel as well as the trim piece, then connect the battery, and conduct a test to ensure that the locks are working in the way they should. If your doors aren't working as they should, it may be time to replace your actuator.