Automotive Door Lock Repair
There are a myriad of things that can go awry with your door lock that is powered. These issues are dealt with by locksmiths for automotive every day.
A malfunctioning actuator is the reason for your car's power lock not working or making a buzzing sound or a "machine gun sound when you lock or unlock it. The actuator is easily replaced, but the process varies depending on the make and model.
Broken or damaged lock cylinder
A broken cylinder for a lock can be frustrating, especially if you are trying to get into your car after an attempted break-in. However, locksmiths will usually be able to repair the cylinder quickly and inexpensively. A locksmith can also replace a damaged door lock actuator, which is a small motor that allows the lock cylinder to open or close the door.
G28CarKeys to the lock mechanism found on your door at home when you insert a key, it pushes down on a series of spring-loaded pins that align them with a shear line, permitting you to turn the cylinder to open or shut the door. If the cylinder becomes damaged or stuck, however, it can prevent the key from turning at any point. In some cases, you may be able to smooth the cylinder using some graphite or WD-40, but these solutions usually don't work for very long.
The ignition lock cylinder can be found on the right-hand side of the steering wheel near the shift lever. It is usually located in the electrical component that locks the ignition switch and is usually welded to your steering column. It is extremely difficult to access the ignition lock cylinder, which is the reason why many mechanics recommend having it replaced instead of attempting to fix it yourself.
To remove the ignition cylinder, first disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable. The trim panel that covers the lock cylinder has to be removed. Use a screwdriver and remove any fasteners keeping it in place. Then, use a pick, awl or screwdriver to loosen the tab on the lock cylinder's retaining tab and take the lock cylinder straight out of the housing.
If your new mechanical lock does not turn the ignition lock cylinder, spray WD40 on the cylinder, and then jiggle the key. If this isn't working, try bumping the cylinder. To bump a lock you simply insert the new mechanical key into the cylinder halfway and then press in with an oversized screwdriver (rubber is the best). Bumping a lock's cylinder can sometimes remove misaligned or displaced wafers that prevent the lock from turning.
Broken or damaged keys
If your car key breaks or is damaged, it may cause more issues than an ordinary lockout. It is important to always have a spare key. Don't be worried if you don't have a spare. The car key that is broken may be easier to fix than you think.
Examine the battery and circuit boards first. If they're good the grooves on your key could have worn down. This could cause the key to not turn or to remain in the ignition. Locksmiths usually fix this by filing down the grooves to be in line with the mechanism.
Keys that are older are more likely to break because of the repeated strain from being turned and inserted into the lock. Utilizing your keys as tool, for example, to break open a soda container or cut through plastic packaging is another reason keys tend to break and wear out. It's always recommended to use a multi-purpose tool or pliers instead of your keys to accomplish these tasks.
Locksmiths can copy keys if they are barely recognisable. You may have to provide proof of ownership to qualify for this service.
You can spray lubricant on your key, based on the type you're using to remove it from the ignition. It's best to have a professional take the key from the ignition in case it's stuck. You could damage the locking mechanism, or even the ignition cylinder.
Some car insurance companies provide roadside assistance in the event of broken or lost keys. It is best to check your policy to determine if this is an option for you. If so the case, they'll typically send someone to unlock the car door and help you find your keys. They may even be able to provide you a new key on the spot according to the type of key you own. This could save time and money over the long run.
Window switches that aren't working properly
A malfunctioning switch could cause a power window to change direction and move between up and down or not at all. There are electrical connections within the door panel that need to be bypassed in order to determine if there's an electrical problem with the motor of the window or the switch itself. Start by checking for a blown fuses, as they are often the cause of windows not functioning. After replacing the fuse that is defective it is possible to bypass the window switches. Connect the wires of the connector to a power source such as an extension cord or car battery. Once you have connected the wires to an external power source, press the window switch to test the motor. If the motor of the window functions normally and the switch isn't in error, then it is probably a mechanical issue with the window mechanism or its track or power window regulator.
If the motor for the window is not working and the switch is in good condition, then there may be problems with the window guides that hold it in place. They can become damaged or loosened, which could cause the window to move in its tracks and jam the motor assembly. This is a common issue on older cars that have gear-type window regulators.
In some cases, the power window actuators may be worn out or get stuck in their up or down position. If they fail, they are the components which control the movement of the window. They usually produce the sound of a buzzing or unexpected rattle sound. The actuators are replaceable, but you will need to remove the window panel in order to access them.
The procedure to remove the window panel varies depending on the specific vehicle model, but it is generally straightforward. Once you have the panel removed, you will need to pry off any covers or trim that secure it. Then, you'll need to carefully backprobe each switch panel in order to identify the issue. If the switch panel is found to be faulty then you can replace it with a new unit.