Simple DIY Car Door Lock Repair
Car door lock issues can be a source of frustration and appear like a daunting issue to fix. The majority of problems can be fixed by simple DIY fixes.
Spray brake cleaning fluid inside the lock cylinders to eliminate dirt and rust. Then, you should lubricate using white grease for the latch mechanism to prevent it from getting stuck or frozen.
Signs of a malfunctioning lock
If your key is unable to easily turn inside the lock, this is a signal that it is in need of attention. This could be caused by the corroded spring of your lock or a dirty or chipped key that's been in your pocket for a long time. Any attempt to address the issue by using force could result in further damage to your door and lock so it is advisable to contact a locksmith for assistance.
This is a sign of a failed lock mechanism. It should be replaced. A damaged lock is not just more difficult to open but can also make the door more vulnerable to burglary, so it is important that you fix the problem in the shortest time possible.
It can be costly to repair a faulty lock, so it's usually recommended to replace it rather than trying to repair it. It could cost you more in the end. Finding the correct replacement parts is crucial to this process, so it is recommended to consult with the original documentation and/or call the manufacturer to determine what part is required for your door. This will help you avoid buying parts that are not compatible with your lock, or from trying to install the wrong components.
It is also common for locks to become stiff and difficult to turn around and can be caused by various issues. Fortunately it is a simple fix using grease. Graphite or silicone spray can be used to reduce the friction between the components and make the lock more comfortable to operate. Make sure you adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines when choosing a lubricant, because certain products can trap dirt and other debris inside the lock, making it harder to operate.
If the lock is turning on its own this could be an indication that someone has altered it. It is likely that this has been done to stop you from opening your door. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure the security of your home. To do this, you will need to access the set screws on cylinders. They are located under the faceplate of your door and can be tightened to ensure they aren't loose.
Removing the interior door handle or door panel
A lot of cars have an opening panel that controls things like the window and the lock, and this is usually fastened to the vehicle by small bolts and screws. They are generally difficult to access, especially on older cars. The most common step in removing this is to put an screwdriver in the lower edge of the control panel and then pry it out. The next step is to unhook the handle. To remove the handle, you'll require a tool specifically designed for this purpose, which is available in larger auto parts stores. One model is more similar to pliers, which have flat hook-shaped knives. This tool fits in an opening on the inside of the handle. It is then pushed into the groove to grasp the C clip that holds it in place. After this is done, the handle can be simply removed from its place.
It is possible to remove the handle from the car to get to the latch, however it's not always required. The key is to do it slow and steady and avoid putting too much pressure on the clips that keep the handle in place. This will be simpler if you have an assistant.
It is a good practice to remove all screws visible after taking off the handle and panel. This will allow you to avoid missing any hidden screws that could cause issues in the future. It will also make it easier to install your door panel.
Keep track of all the bolts, screws, and covers that are used to secure the panel to your vehicle. You can label them and place them in separate bags to help you locate them when you have to install your panel. This will save you much time and headaches later on.
Cleaning the Lock Cylinder
If your car's lock cylinder isn't turning, it could be the result of rust or other internal problems. Cleaning and lubricating the cylinder can help prevent internal mechanisms from breaking or snapping.
The first step is to spray a general-purpose cleaner such as WD-40 into the lock cylinder. This will clean out and lubricate the mechanism making it easier to use. Make g28carkeys.co.uk to spray the entire interior of the lock and the cylinder including the latch switch, to ensure that it's free of any debris.
Next, lubricate the lock cylinder with a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or commercial car door lock lubricant. Avoid using liquid lubricants, since they can attract dirt and dust. If the cylinder isn't lubricated, it'll be more difficult to open and close the door, because the key could get stuck in the cylinder or break.
Using a chenille-like stem or a similar long, thin tool made of metal will help you take the lock apart so you can clean it and lubricate it. It's not an easy job since you'll need to remove the door's panel as well as other parts, like the window clock and some subpanels and covers.
Use a rag and wipe all surfaces after the assembly has been taken apart. It's a good idea clean all of the tumblers, as well. After the assembly is cleaned it is able to be put back together. It's a good idea to place the springs and tumblers in the correct order so that they line correctly when you insert them back into the cylinder.
Install the assembly and test it. If the lock does not work it could be time to consult a professional for an entire replacement of the cylinder for your car door. They'll give you guidance on what the problem is and the best way to fix it. This is a costlier alternative than replacing the lock assembly. However, it's the most secure method to ensure that your car door is secure and able to be opened using a single key.
Move the Latch
When you operate the handle either on the outside or inside of your car the mechanism extends metal bars (or other links) that disengages the latch from its anchor. These are usually connected to plastic fasteners that hold them with special adhesives. Your car could get stuck in open position if a metal rod is detached from its fastener, or the fasteners are broken.
A professional locksmith for automotive can inspect the inner door lock assembly for problems and can reattach rods that are disconnected. They have the tools to remove the inner door's frame and gain access to the latch assembly. This is a task that most people will not want to tackle themselves particularly on a day when they're late for work or have other obligations.
The latch release cable in the interior could have been cut off from the actuator. This is a common reason for your car's doors getting stuck. This may happen if someone has jimmied the lock or if there was physical damage to the door or its components due to an accident or hard slam.
This issue can be fixed by connecting the rod to the actuator using a screwdriver, and turning it in a clockwise direction. This will rotate the latch into its proper orientation and should allow the door to be opened manually from the inside or outside.
This kind of problem is caused by excessive wear on the bushings linking the rods that move these parts. When they're worn it is possible to create slop which causes the entire mechanism to move but not latch or lock correctly. You can test this by pulling on the inner and outer handles individually while watching the other moving parts for movement.