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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 could be an indication of a damaged actuator. In this case the lubrication process will typically solve the issue. However, it is recommended to consult with an expert car locksmith. Locking the Door If you've locked yourself out of your car, it could be a difficult experience. However, there are a few options you can try to get inside. If you're a member of AAA, or another service with roadside assistance, they'll send a locksmith to assist you, but you might also be able to get back in using some DIY tools and techniques. These methods work best for cars with power door locks. These can be opened by pressing the lock button located on the armrest, or a keychain. To use this method, you will need a wire hanger, which is straightened out and made into a hook on one end, or other long, rigid tool that won't bend under pressure. It should be long enough to reach the car door handle or the lock button, and must include a hook on one end to hold the latch inside the door. You will also require tools like pliers to grasp the hanger's ends and an extended tweezers to move it. First, you will need to create an opening between the window frame and body. Then, slide the rod or hook from the hanger through the gap you've made and then try to slide or depress the door lock flipper or button with it. With a little luck, the door will open. If your vehicle has an electronic lock, you will need to figure out a way to open the door from inside without knowing the code. You can pull a lever located on the inside of the door to unlock it, but first you need to know how to access it. You can use a Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever. In some instances, none of the options above will work, and you'll have to call an expert locksmith for help. If this is the case, be sure to ask them what the cost will be before they arrive. Keyhole is not jamming Keyhole If the lock is stuck because the key was inserted before it was fully engaged, try to gently push the pin tumblers back into their proper alignment within the internal cylinder. This can help fix the issue However, pushing too hard could cause further damage, so it's best to call a locksmith for such an problem. A great way to avoid stuck keys is making sure the lock is lubricated using graphite spray or a silicone-based item. These products are better than oil-based products such as WD-40 which can attract dirt and other debris. Apply the product to the lock. Insert and turn the key a few times. Then jiggle the keys inside the hole. Powdered graphite is another item that you should keep in your toolbox. It acts as a dry fluid. It promotes smooth movement without attracting dirt and grime. It is safe to use on locks that have internal pin tumblers. Try rubbing a few grains of the powder into the lock to lubricate it and remove any gunk that may have been accumulating in the keyhole. Lastly, it's important to replace the key regularly to keep it in good shape and to prevent it from getting stuck over time. This will help it last longer and perform more efficiently. If the key is not turning freely or is jamming easily, it could be worn out and needs to be replaced or recut. To prevent sticking, you can use a file on the sharp points of the key teeth. But, car door lock repair service near me is a job best left to a professional. If the suggestions above don't work, you can try to remove the stuck-on key by removing the strike plate from door frame. You will need to file down the lower lip to create a larger opening where the key is placed. If this isn't working, seek out a professional locksmith who will have the tools necessary to take apart the locked car door. They'll have specialized tools designed to enter the locking mechanisms to disengage them and will be able to determine why the lock isn't working correctly. Unfreezing the Lock Locks that freeze are common during the Polar Vortex, which brings cold temperatures and winter storms. There are a few simple tricks that you can use to unfreeze the lock and unlock your vehicle. First, try to chip away any large chunks of ice that are blocking your lock cylinder. It is important to use caution when doing this to avoid damaging your car door or the lock cylinder. Another trick that is commonly used is to pour boiling water on the lock. While this may work initially however, it can harm your lock in the long haul and likely freeze any moisture that remains inside the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water can also cause thermal shock, which can cause damage to modern electronic components in the lock cylinder as well as the door sensor. It is also possible to cause damage to the door lock or car lock by using metal or sharp objects. A better alternative is to heat the key using matches or a lighter and then insert it into the lock. Heating the key using an igniter or hair dryer will create enough heat to melt away the ice that's encased the lock cylinder and make it easier for you to turn the key in and open the door. If you're not able to get the key to enter all the way, simply warm it again and try again. Using commercial de-icer on your key or spraying the lock with a lubricant can be helpful to get rid of any ice in the lock. A great idea is to park your car in the sun and let the sun thaw out the lock. It could take a while, but this is an inexpensive and simple solution to a lock that is frozen. A de-icer bottle in your car for times like this is also beneficial as the chemicals can quickly melt any ice and prevent future freezing. Replacing the Actuator The actuator is a tiny motor that drives the lock via a series of gears. It can be activated by turning a key inside the door, or pressing a button from an electronic device, using keyless entry, or by activating it via the central control unit. It is a low-power device that will get worn out over time. If it wears out, it may make a buzzing or machine gun sound that will not stop until the actuator is replaced. The majority of people can replace the actuator using a few tools and perseverance. The steps may vary slightly between cars since manufacturers build the parts in different ways however the process is the same. First, disconnect the battery to avoid electrical issues during the repair. Then, carefully remove the door panel from the car. Depending on the vehicle you have you may have to take off the window or the regulator to gain access to the actuator. After removing the panel, you will observe the actuator attached to the door latch. The bolts holding it in place will usually be undone with a screwdriver. The actuator can then be removed from its mount. Once the new one is in place, carefully reinstall the connector that goes to the wiring harness. Reconnect the cables and rods to the latch, actuator and door panel. Once the trim panel is in place, it is recommended to replace any clips that fell off during removal. Make sure that all of the screws are tightened again to avoid looseness or rattle. Reconnect any wires that were disconnected and test the new actuator to see if it functions. Install the door panel, trim piece, and battery. Then, conduct another test. If your doors don't function in the way they should it could be time to replace the actuator.