Auto Door Locks Repair - Fixing a Power Door Lock Actuator
Over time the door lock's power will begin to wear out. Electrical issues, such as blowing fuses or damaged wiring, may also affect it.
The door might operate slow or in an erratic manner because of worn bushings. Try pulling and pushing the door handle while watching the mechanism for movement between components.
Unlocking
While door locks are an expected convenience for a modern vehicle, they're also one of the many things that could be faulty. The issue could be caused by a dead remote battery, an electric motor or actuator that is wearing out wires corroding, or even by the simple the fact that a door has been left ajar, the result can be a frustrating and dangerous if your vehicle can't be locked or unlocked.
Depending on the car model there are various ways that the doors can be activated to lock or unlock. Some cars have keys that are connected to doors that have handles, which requires an actual lock. Others use a button inside the door or the keyless entry system or a remote or a combination of these. If the door lock isn't responding to your request, it's probably the power door lock actuator.
It's not uncommon for them to fail after a decade of continuous use and then cease to function. Fortunately, you'll be able to identify the issue quickly by checking the actuator with a digital multimeter to determine if power is reaching it. If it is you will hear the sound of the gears whirring and a soft clunk when the latch bolt has completed its rotation. If the power locks do not work it is possible to take the door panel off and test the solenoid of the lock with an alligator clip or a different method.
In certain models, a door lock switch is used to power the lock actuators within each door. In other more complex vehicles, a body control unit controls the functionality of the door locks through a connection with other systems within the car. If a door lock has become malfunctioning, the door handle will not move and the door won't lock or unlock. The door might be difficult to close and the striker or hook latch could jam. Sometimes, WD40 and gentle persuasion with a hammer will clear up these problems however, you may have to replace them.
Unjamming
Modern car doors make use of the combination of electrical, mechanical and key-operated components to open and close. Electric motors are also used, which can be controlled via a remote control or key. It can be a hassle to get where you'd like to go if one or more of these parts fail. A damaged door lock actuator, for example can stop the door from locking or unlocking when the key is turned inside the car. It's easy to fix this problem yourself at home with a few basic tools.
The most frequent reason for a door lock powered by electricity to stop working is that the actuator itself has failed. This happens for a variety of reasons, such as exposure to moisture over time, which results in corrosion that can cause damage to electrical connections. Dust, dirt and oil can also build up in the actuator, putting extra strain on the moving mechanical portion. The actuator could also be physically damaged for instance, by a person trying to jibber the device.
If you suspect that your door lock actuator is failing the first step is to see whether the power is reaching the component. If it is, the issue could be elsewhere, such as an overblown relay or fuse or a defective control module.
If you've concluded that the actuator is faulty, it's time to act. You'll require a few tools, such as a wrench and screwdrivers. You may also need to remove the panel from the door to get at it. You'll also need to disconnect the cables and wires connected to the actuator.
After the old actuator is removed, you'll have to replace it with a new part. Before installing the new component it is recommended to reconnect all of the cables and wires and conduct a an extensive test of performance to verify that the door lock actuator is functioning properly. Check that the new piece is securely attached to the panel's inner surface and ensure that all clamps, clips and other parts are tight. If they're loose, they may slide or break during operation.
Keyless Entry
Keyless entry is a simple method of unlocking your car without having to place your car keys in a lock cylinder. The vehicle recognizes the keys are within range and transmits the radio signal that matches the code to the key fob. The key fob relays the code to the door locks which then unlock or close accordingly. Keyless entry points are more convenient to use in cold weather, when you're wearing gloves or when your hands are full. They are also safer than traditional locks, since they don't require a key to be placed into the cylinder.
The technology behind keyless entry systems is complicated. This increases the risk of malfunctions. If you are having problems with your power door locks you should consult the owner's manual to learn about resetting the system. This will usually involve disconnecting and reconnecting your battery, or pressing the button near the door lock actuator.
If the power locks do not lock or unlock, it's a good idea check if the problem is present throughout the doors. A damaged lock actuator can affect other systems within the car, such as security and convenience features.
A malfunctioning door lock actuator may not only make it impossible to open the doors of your vehicle, but also leave the vehicle open to theft. You can prevent this by using a lock-deicer or some WD-40 to clean your door locks and handles.
You've probably seen police and AAA helping people to get out of locked vehicles, and they're usually equipped with a tool that looks like a thin strip of metal with a hook-like piece at one end. These tools are used to find into the lock, typically between a door knob and the power-lock actuator. Once they find it, they can pull on the strip to pop the lock open and pull the door open.
Rekeying
Rekeying involves changing the pin combination of a lock cylinder to ensure that only a new key can open it. It is much less expensive and more simple than replacing the lock. It also provides a higher level of security. It's one of the simplest home locksmith jobs.
Most door locks require keys to operate. The key can be removed and the cylinder moved to a different position within the lock. The pins can then be altered so that only the key will work. This method will not fix a broken or jammed lock however. It is a method to rekey door locks of the car after an attempted or successful break-in for instance. Additionally, it can provide security for homeowners who have recently moved into a new residence.
A power lock that is electric uses magnetic fields or motors that are activated by electric currents to move the door handle. The electric system could fail due to a variety of reasons: the remote's battery could be dead, the wiring could have been damaged by the elements or a break-in or it may have simply stopped working without apparent cause. The best way to diagnose a problem with an electric lock is to examine it for any obvious signs of trouble, such as the sound of a rattling or buzzing when the door is locked or unlocked.
There are several ways that car owners can rekey their door locks. The simplest method involves spraying the lock cylinder with brake cleaner to clean of grime, dirt and rust. After five minutes, the key should turn easily on the lock. If the cylinder does not turn smoothly, it must be replaced.
It can be difficult, depending on the model and make of the vehicle, to change the lock without removing the panel. repair car lock is why many prefer having the rekeying completed by a professional, as it is safer and easier. Locksmiths can alter the pins on the cylinder, making the old key unusable and then reinstall the handle.