Auto Door Lock Repair - Replacing the Door Lock Actuator

Many modern vehicles have automatic door locks. But like any other moving part they can fail or malfunction. If your power locks don't work it could be the result of an electrical issue such as a faulty relay or a bad battery.

Try applying WD-40 to the area or penetrating catalyst. This is usually a solution to the issue.

Rekeying

Rekeying a door lock for your vehicle involves modifying the internal components to accommodate a new key configuration, which increases the car's security while maintaining the control of access. Rekeying is a DIY skill that provides DIY enthusiasts with the capability to solve a variety of security concerns. The meticulous concentration on the details required to complete this task guarantees reliable performance.

Modern car locks employ the pin and tumbler system which is where the ridges on a key align with the pins of a lock cylinder, which triggers the shear line, which opens the latch mechanism, allowing entry. Rekeying involves changing the pin and tumbler configuration to match the key of a different one while maintaining the proper alignment of a shear line. This is to prevent unauthorized key usage. The lock cylinder could also incorporate security features that are built-in like anti-drill or anti-pick pins that deter burglary attempts.

Rekeying an auto-door lock starts by getting the lock removed from the housing on its outer side. The core is then disassembled and rebuilt. The key cylinder is then installed back into the housing's outer shell and the lock handle linkage and fasteners are then reattached. Finally, the lock cylinder is checked to ensure that it operates correctly and reliably with the new key.

To ensure that you don't damage the lock or its components to avoid damage, you'll need the correct tools to rekey an auto lock. Based on the particular lock, the tools and materials you'll require include:

Plug followers: These are required to remove the plug from the cylinder without scattering the pins within. Pinning mat A pinning mat functions as a designated space to organize and contain the pins when rekeying. Set of precision screwdrivers A set of these will aid in the dismantling and rebuild the lock cylinder. Tweezers: Tweezers with precision can be used in manipulating and removing tiny springs and parts.

Rekeying the lock of your car can be a relatively easy task, but it will take several hours to complete the work. Make sure to plan this time when scheduling the rekeying. Don't forget to add extra time for any unexpected delays or issues. Additionally, it's an excellent idea to talk to an expert for help with this type of task.

Replacement

The door lock actuator is a key component that controls the power locks on most cars. When they are operating properly, they will retract and then engage the latch when you press the button on your key fob or inside the vehicle to lock or unlock it. It is possible to replace the door lock actuator if you are experiencing problems with power locks.

The actuator is electric and could fail due to corrosion from moisture, dust, and other contaminants that get into the components. Physical damage to the door lock actuator from an accident or an unsuccessful attempt to open a door lock may also cause it to fail early. The components that are of poor quality can cause the door lock actuator to fail prematurely, or completely.

A typical sign of a failing actuator is when the door locks are intermittently not responding to the key fob or buttons inside the vehicle. Another symptom is here when you attempt to open the lock, and it creates a rattling or buzzing noise.

The majority of auto shops can replace the door lock actuator in an hour or two. The door panel, window, inner door liner, and the lock control rod will have to be removed. They'll also have to disconnect the lock rods and electrical harness. Installing the new actuator in the door is the next step. They will then connect the rods, cable and replace any damaged clips.

A new door lock actuator costs between $125 and $225, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. You will need some inexpensive tools to complete the repair if decide to do it yourself. You will need an instrument to remove the door handle for crank windows (about seven dollars from any automotive parts store) and an offset flat-blade screwdriver. When replacing a power locking actuator, it's important not to reuse the old latch rod or door lock cable. This could cause the new lock to fail.

Repair

Modern vehicles are equipped with power door locks controlled by actuators. These are more complex than the standard mechanical lock cylinders used on older models, and they can be a lot more difficult to repair should they fail. There are several ways to repair them and they're usually not expensive. It could be due to physical damage, electrical issues or simply deteriorating over time the door lock on your vehicle may require replacement.

A blown fuse is one of the most frequent causes of a power lock that is not working. This fuse is responsible for sending a signal to the doors that activates the motor, which opens or closes the doors. You can replace this fuse by yourself and it's cheap. Another possible problem is an old actuator. An actuator that is not working properly can be identified by a variety of symptoms, including inconsistent door lock operation as well as unusual noises. A digital multimeter can be used to test the actuator. If the multimeter shows power is reaching the actuator but it's unable to allow the power locks to be activated the actuator is most likely malfunctioning.

The best way of diagnosing an actuator that is malfunctioning is to remove the panel and visually examine it. The actuator will usually be located near the handle. You can also try to jimmy open the lock mechanism by wiggling the lever up and down when you press the button to lock or unlock the car. If the mechanism doesn't appear to be loose or cracked, then it may just be stuck. WD-40 is a fantastic solvent to use to unjam a mechanism. This solvent is available at most home improvement and automotive supply stores. It is also inexpensive. Make sure to use a long, skinny straw to get the lubricant inside of the lock. If the mechanism is still jammed the penetrating catalyst could be used to reduce corrosion and restore function. If you have tried these different methods but the lock still does not work, it's time to get an expert.

Installation

If your car door lock isn't functioning in the way it should, it could be a big problem and can make driving unsafe. The good part is that auto door locks aren't too difficult to fix and can usually be repaired to working condition without the necessity of replacing. The doors in your car are a crucial safety feature. The majority of people only think about them when they stop working.

The way a door lock for cars works is based on an intricate system of mechanics which includes a control rod, latch and knob. Based on the model, these elements can be controlled by the key fob or interior buttons. When the body controller receives signals from the key fob or the interior buttons, it transmits that signal to the actuator, which moves the latch and handle.

A malfunctioning actuator could cause the door locks' power to stop functioning, which is harmful for your security as well as convenience. In addition, certain modern vehicles integrate their locking systems with other electrical systems, which means that an unreliable actuator could affect the functions of those systems as well.

There are a few typical indicators that your car's doors lock actuator is not working properly:

Typical symptoms of a malfunctioning door lock actuator are unsteady operation and strange sounds. For instance, if the door locks that power the doors aren't working when you click on the key fob button you may hear a peculiar buzzing or an erupting sound. This is because the actuator isn't properly connecting with both the anchor and latch.

Call a locksmith if you notice these signs. They'll be able to assess the situation and determine what steps to take to get your door locks back into good working order.

Certain repairs to auto locks are able to be completed by the average person, however an expert locksmith has the equipment and know-how to work on more complicated problems. In most instances a professional locksmith will fix the problem to restore the locks on your car door to working condition.