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How to Repair Car Lock Actuator

If your door locks that are powered do not respond when you press the lock button on your keyfob, this could indicate that your actuator is damaged. In this case the lubrication process will typically fix the problem.

However, it is recommended to speak with an expert car locksmith.

Unlocking the door

Locked out of the vehicle can be a stressful experience, but there are several things you can do to get back inside. If you have roadside assistance from AAA or another service they will send a locksmith, however you might also be able gain access to your vehicle using DIY tools and methods. car lock repair cost will work best on cars with power door locks, which can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest, or using keys.

To make this method work, you will need a wire hanger, straightened out and turned into a hook at one end, or some other long, rigid tool that isn't prone to bend under pressure. It must be sufficient in length to reach the car door handle or lock button, and it should have a hook at one end to catch the latch inside the door. You will also need pliers as well as long tweezers to adjust the hanger.

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

If your vehicle has a digital lock, you will need to figure out how to unlock the door from inside without knowing the code. You can pull a lever on the inside of the door to open it but first you have to figure out how to access it. A Slim Jim can be used to accomplish this or a similar tool that can be inserted into the gap between the door and the window.

In some cases none of the methods above are effective and you'll have to call a professional locksmith for assistance. If that's the case, ensure that you ask how much it will cost before they arrive.

Unblocking the Keyhole

If the lock is jammed due to the key was not fully engaged then gently push the pin tumblers back into their proper position within the cylinder's interior. This may fix the problem; however, pushing too hard can cause additional damage, and it's best to call a locksmith for such an problem.

A good way to prevent stuck keys is by keeping the lock lubricated by graphite spray or a silicone-based item. They are superior to oil-based products, such as WD-40 which can attract dirt and other debris. Apply the product to the lock, then insert and turn the key several times, then play around with the key into the hole to distribute the lubricant through the mechanism.

Another helpful item to keep on hand is powdered graphite, which functions similar to dry fluid. It allows for smooth movement between metal surfaces, without attracting dirt or grime, and is safe to use on locks with internal pin tumblers. Try rub a few grains the powder into the lock to make it lubricate and get rid of any gunk that might have accumulated in the keyhole.

It's also crucial to replace your key regularly to ensure it's in good shape and also to ensure it doesn't jam over time. This will help it last longer and perform more efficiently.





If the key is still not moving freely or jams easily, it may be worn out and need to be replaced or replaced. You can use a file to smooth the sharp points on the teeth of the key to avoid sticking in the future however this is a job best left to an experienced.

If the suggestions above do not work, you may try to free the key stuck 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 through which the key can be inserted. If this doesn't work, you should call an expert locksmith who will have the tools required to take apart the locked car door. They will have tools to detach the locking mechanisms, and be in a position to determine the reason why the lock doesn't work correctly.

Unfreezing the Lock

With the Polar Vortex bringing cold temperatures and winter storms locks that are frozen are quite common. The good news is that there are a few simple tricks to unfreezing the lock so you can open your car. The first step is to chip away any large chunks of ice that are blocking your lock cylinder. It is essential to take care in this process to keep from damaging your car's door or lock cylinder.

Pouring boiling water on the lock is a common technique. This might work for a while, but it can damage the lock in the long run and also refreeze any moisture that remains in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock door sensor or cylinder could also trigger an electrical shock. You can also damage the car lock or door by using metal or sharp objects.

An alternative is to heat the key with matches or a lighter and then insert it into the lock. Heating the key with a lighter or a hair dryer will give enough heat to melt away the ice that is coating the lock cylinder and make it easier to turn the key in and out. If you're not able to get the key to enter completely, just warm it again and try again. You can de-ice your lock by spraying a lubricant on the lock or by using a commercial de-icer.

A great idea is to leave your car parked in the sun and let the sun melt the lock. It might take a while, but this is an easy and inexpensive solution to a frozen lock. It is advisable to keep a de-icer can in your car for times like this is also a good idea as the chemicals are able to break down any ice, and will prevent further freezing.

Replacing the Actuator

The actuator is the tiny motor that rotates the lock through a series of gears. It can be controlled by a key in the door, a remote control or keyless entry, or a central control. It uses a tiny amount of power to operate and can get worn out over time. If it wears out, it will make a buzzing or machine gun noise that will continue to reverberate until the actuator is replaced.

Most people can replace the actuator with a few tools and patience. The steps differ between cars, as manufacturers may assemble parts differently. However, the fundamental procedure is the same. First disconnect the battery to prevent electrical problems from occurring during the repair. After that, remove the door panel from the vehicle. Depending on the car, you may also need to remove the regulator and/or window in order to access the actuator.

When you remove the panel, you will see the actuator attached to the door latch. Usually the bolts that hold the actuator in place can be removed using the help 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 cables and rods to the latch, actuator and door panel.

Replace any clips that have fallen off during removal. Make sure that all of the screws are re-tightened to prevent looseness or rattle. Reconnect any wires that were cut off and test the new actuator to ensure it works. If it does, install the door panel and the trim piece, then connect the battery and run a second test to ensure the locks are working exactly as they should. If your doors don't work as they should, it might be time to replace the actuator.