11 Methods To Totally Defeat Your Repair Car Lock

How to Repair Car Lock Actuator

If your power door locks do not respond when you press the lock button on your keyfob, this could be a sign that your actuator is damaged. In this instance, you can usually fix it by lubricating the device.

It is, however, recommended to consult with an experienced car locksmith .

Locking the Door

Getting locked out of the car can be a traumatic experience however there are several options to get back inside. If you are a member of AAA or another service with roadside assistance, they'll send a locksmith to help you, but you may be able to get back inside using DIY tools and methods. These methods work best with cars that have power door locks, which can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest or using keys.

This method requires a straightened-out wire hanger with hooks on one end or another long, rigid tool that will not bend under pressure. It should be sufficient in length to reach the car lock button or door handle. The other end should include a hook that can catch the latch. You will also need a tool such as pliers to hold the hanger's ends and an extended tweezers for manipulating it.

You'll first need to create a gap between the top of the car window frame and the body. Insert the rod or hook of the hanger into the gap you made and then try to slide it or press the door lock flipper button or switch using it. The door should open with a bit of luck.

If your car comes with a digital lock then you'll need discover a way to unlock the doors from inside. There is a lever inside the door that can be pulled to release it, however you will have to figure out a way to reach it. You can use a Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever.

In some cases none of the above methods will work and you will have to call an experienced locksmith. If this is the case, be sure to ask them what the cost will be before they show up.

Unblocking the Keyhole

If the lock is stuck due to the key was inserted prior to it was fully engaged, try to gently push the pin tumblers back into their correct alignment in the internal cylinder. This may fix the problem However, pushing too hard could cause additional damage, and it is recommended to contact locksmiths for this issue.


A good way to prevent stuck keys is keeping the lock lubricated with graphite spray or a silicone-based item. These products are better than oil-based products such as WD-40 which can attract dirt and dust. Apply the product to the lock. Insert and turn the key a few times. Then jiggle the keys inside the hole.

Another helpful item to keep in your arsenal is powdered graphite, which works like a dry oil lubricant. It promotes smooth movement without drawing dirt and grime. It's safe to use with locks that have internal pin tumblers. Try applying a few grains of the powder into the lock to lubricate it and clear away any gunk that may have been accumulating in the keyhole.

It's also important to replace your key on a regular basis to ensure it's in good shape and to prevent it from jamming over time. This will also help it last longer and work more efficiently.

If the key still isn't moving freely or is jammed easily or jammed, the key may be worn and requires replacement or a key recut. You can employ a file to smooth the sharp points on the key teeth to prevent future sticking however this is a job best left to professionals.

If the above suggestions aren't working, you can try to get rid of the stuck key by removing the strike plate from the door frame, and then filing down the lower lip of the plate to increase the size of the opening into which the key can be inserted. If this doesn't work, you should contact a professional locksmith who will have the tools needed to remove the lock from the door. They'll have specialized tools that are designed to get into the locking mechanisms to detach them and will be able to determine why the lock isn't functioning properly.

Unfreezing the Lock

With the Polar Vortex bringing cold temperatures and winter storms freezing lock problems are common. There are a few quick methods you can use to unfreeze the lock and unlock your vehicle. The first thing to do is to take away any large ice chunks that are preventing the lock cylinder from receiving the key. To avoid damaging the lock cylinder or door, it is crucial to take care during this process.

Another method is to pour boiling water over the lock. While this might work at first however, it can harm your lock in the long run and likely re-freeze any moisture that is still in the lock's cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock or door sensor could also trigger a thermal shock. Using sharp or metal objects to break the lock or attempt to force the key into it can also damage your car door or lock and could possibly cause an unusable lock.

A better 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 lighter or a hairdryer to melt the ice coating the lock cylinder. This will allow you to turn the key and open the door. If you are unable to get the key to go in completely, just heat it up again and try again. You can get rid of ice from your lock by spraying a grease on the lock, or using a commercial deicer.

An excellent idea is to leave your car parked in the sun, and let the sun melt the lock. It may take some time but it's an easy and inexpensive solution to a frozen lock. It is advisable to keep a de-icer can in your car for an emergency like this is an excellent idea since the chemicals will quickly break down any ice and stop future freezing.

Replacing the Actuator

The actuator is the tiny motor that rotates the lock through a set of gears. It can be controlled by a key in the door or a remote control or keyless entry central control. It is a low-power device that can be worn out over time. It can wear out and produce the sound of a buzzing or machine gun sound that won't stop until the actuator is changed.

Replacing the actuator is a simple task for most people with a few tools and a little patience. The steps may vary slightly among different vehicles since manufacturers put the components together differently however the fundamental process is the same. The battery must be disconnected first to avoid electrical problems during the repair. Remove the door panel with care from the car. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to take off the window or the regulator to gain access to the actuator.

After you have removed the panel you will be visible the actuator attached to the door latch. The bolts holding the actuator in place can be removed using a screwdriver. The actuator can be removed from its mounting. After the new one is in place, carefully reinstall the connector that goes to the wiring harness. After that connect any cables or rods connected to the latch and actuator and then put the door panel back in its place.

Replace any clips that have fallen off during the removal. Check the screws to ensure that they are properly tightened. This will stop any rattle or looseness. Reconnect all wires that were disconnected and test the actuator to ensure it works. Reinstall the door panel, trim piece, and battery. Then, run another test. If your doors aren't working as they should, it could be time to replace the actuator.

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Pub: 20 Apr 2024 21:44 UTC
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