How to Repair Car Lock Actuator If your power door lock isn't responding when you press the lock button on your key fob, it may be an indication of a fried actuator. In this instance it is usually possible to repair it by lubricating the assembly. It is best to talk to an experienced auto locksmith. Unlocking the Door Getting locked out of the vehicle can be a stressful experience however there are several options to get back inside. If you're a part of AAA or another service with roadside assistance, they'll provide a locksmith you, but you might be able to get back inside using DIY tools and methods. These methods work best on cars with doors that have power locks. They can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest, or using the keychain. For this method you'll need a wire hanger, straightened out and turned into a hook on one end, or some other long, stiff tool that isn't prone to be able to bend under pressure. It will need to be long enough to reach the door handle or the lock button, and should have a hook at one end to hold the latch inside the door. You will also require pliers and long tweezers in order to move the hanger. The first step is to create an opening between the window frame and body. Then, insert the rod or hook from the hanger into the gap you've made, and then try to slide or press the door lock flipper or button with it. The door should then open with a little luck. If your car has an electronic lock, you'll have to find a way to unlock the door from the inside without knowing the code. You can pull a lever on the inside of the door to open it but first you have to find out how to get to it. A Slim Jim can be used to accomplish this, or a similar long tool that can be inserted into the gap between the door and the window. In certain situations, none of the above methods will work, and you'll require an expert locksmith for help. Ask them about the price they'll charge you before they show up. Unjamming the Keyhole If the lock is stuck because the key was inserted prior to it was fully engaged and locked, try gently pushing the pin tumblers back into their correct alignment in the internal cylinder. It may solve the problem however, pushing too hard could cause more damage. In this situation it is recommended to call a locksmith. Keep the lock lubricated using graphite spray, or a silicone-based product. These products are better than oils-based products like WD-40 which can attract dirt and debris. Apply the product to the lock, then insert and turn the key several times, and then jiggle the key into the hole to distribute the lubricant through the mechanism. Another helpful item to keep on hand is powdered graphite, which functions like dry fluid. It allows for smooth movement between metal surfaces without attracting dirt or grime, and is safe to use on locks that have internal pin tumblers. Rub a few grains of the powder inside the lock. This will help lubricate the lock and remove any gunk which may have been accumulating around the keyhole. Lastly, it's important to replace the key regularly to ensure it's in good shape and to prevent it from getting stuck over time. This will help it last longer and work more efficiently. If the key is not turning freely or jams easily, it could be worn out and needs to be replaced or cut. You can employ a file to smooth out the sharp points on the key teeth to prevent future sticking, but this is a job best left to professionals. If the above suggestions aren't working, you can try to get rid of the key stuck by removing the strike plate from the door frame and filing down the lower portion of the plate to increase the size of the opening through which the key is inserted. If this doesn't work, you should contact a professional locksmith who will have the tools necessary to remove the lock from the door. They will have special tools that can enter the locking mechanisms to disengage them, and they will be able to pinpoint the reason the lock isn't functioning properly. Unfreezing the Lock Frozen locks are common during the Polar Vortex, which brings cold temperatures and winter storms. There are a few easy techniques you can employ to free the lock and unlock your vehicle. First, try to chip away any large chunks of ice which are blocking your lock cylinder. It is essential to take care in this process to ensure that you don't damage your car door or lock cylinder. Pouring boiling water over the lock is another common method. This may work at first, but it can damage the lock in the end and refreeze any moisture left in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock door sensor or cylinder could also cause a thermal shock. You can also harm the door lock or car lock with sharp or metal objects. It is best to heat the key by using an igniter or match, and then insert it in the lock. The key can be heated using lighter or a hairdryer to melt the ice coating the lock cylinder. This will allow you to turn the key and unlock the door. If car door unlocking are unable to get the key to go in completely, just warm it up again and try again. You can get rid of ice from your lock by spraying a oil on the lock or using a commercial de-icer. It is a great idea to park your car in the sun and let the sun melt the lock. It might take a while but it's an inexpensive and easy solution to a frozen lock. It is an excellent idea to have a can de-icer on hand for times of need. The chemicals break the ice and stop further freezing. Replacing the Actuator The actuator is a small motor that powers the lock via a series of gears. It can be activated by turning a key inside the door, pushing an appropriate button from the remote device, using keyless entry, or activating it from a central control unit. It is a low-power device that will get worn out over time. It can wear out and make an eerie sound or machine gun sound that doesn't stop unless the actuator is replaced. The majority of people can replace the actuator using a few tools and perseverance. The steps differ between cars, as manufacturers may put together parts in different ways. However, the fundamental process remains the same. First, disconnect the battery to avoid electrical issues during the repair. Then, carefully remove the door panel from the. Depending on the vehicle you may also need to remove the window and/or regulator in order to access the actuator. After removing the panel you can see the actuator that is attached to the door latch. Usually the bolts holding the actuator in place can be removed with the aid of a screwdriver. The actuator can then be pulled out of its mount. Once the new actuator is installed, make sure you connect the connector to the wiring harness. Reconnect the rods and cables to the latch, actuator and door panel. When the trim panel is back in place you should replace any clips that were removed during removal. Double check that all screws have been tightened to prevent looseness or rattle. Reconnect all wires that have been disconnected and test the actuator to ensure it is working. If it does, put back in the door panel as well as the trim piece, and then reconnect the battery and run a second test to make sure the locks are working in the way they should. If your doors aren't working as they should, it might be time to replace your actuator.
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