Car Locks Repair
Typically, a locksmith for cars will be able to work with both manual and power door locks. Manual lock problems are more frequent but they can be frustrating.
WD-40 is a great oil to use in the winter. It will displace the moisture and stop it from freezing in the keyhole.
Door Lock Cylinder Replacement
It's a good idea replace the door lock's cylinders as soon as possible when you have lost your car keys or suspect someone else has. This will ensure that you're only the person who can open your car and keep other unauthorized people out of it. Unfortunately replacing a car's door cylinder is quite difficult, since it requires at least partial removal of the door's interior panel in most instances. This isn't a task that many people would like to attempt on their own, since it can be extremely risky when done incorrectly.
The lock cylinder is removed from the handle first. To accomplish this, you need to locate the screw on the edge of the housing for the lock cylinder (usually located in the upper right-hand corner). It may be hidden beneath plastic pieces or just barely visible. If you can't locate it, take off any trim panels blocking your view. Then, use a pick or awl or a small screwdriver to loosen the lock cylinder retaining tab and remove the cylinder straight out of the housing.
Once the cylinder has been removed, there are a few things to do to prepare it to be used. The keyway needs to be cleared of grease and dirt and the cylinder should be lubricated to prevent it from getting stuck in the lock. The easiest way to do this is to use brake cleaner, which will clean and lubricate the lock cylinder components. Once the cleaner is applied to clean the cylinder, you can use a screwdriver to remove the bolt of 10mm that connects the handle to the cylinder housing.
You can then put in the new cylinder and use it with your original key. It is recommended to purchase an cylinder that matches the brand and model of your current one because it is more likely to fit correctly and will provide a secure seal. Once it is installed, test the door to confirm that the lock functions correctly and that the door is shut securely.
Door Lock Cylinder Repair
The lock cylinder is a part of your car door the key fits into to unlock or secure the door. If you're experiencing difficulty turning the key inside the lock, or if it gets stuck, this is a sign that your door cylinder may be damaged and requires replacement.
The lock is normally located near the door handle. However, some cars put it behind a piece plastic. When you turn the key, the pins of the cylinder align with the cuts on the head of the key, allowing you move the lock and open the car door. If you have a cylinder mounted on a surface take off the faceplate on the door handle. Unscrew any or all setscrews on the cylinder.
Once the screw has been removed, you can turn it to remove the door. Place the screws in a bag or in a safe location to replace them later. Next, take the key and place it inside the lock to see whether the tumblers or pins are moving freely or becoming stuck. If the cylinder is stuck or you hear or feel clicking, it's time to replace it.
You can buy new cylinders for your car at any auto parts store however, you'll need know the model and make of your car before you shop. You can also call a locksmith to change your door cylinder. They'll be able to match the new unit to your existing key, so you will be able to continue using the lock you have in your possession.
The most common issue is that the cylinder will not turn when you press the key. This can be due to corrosion or dirt that has accumulated, preventing the cylinder from moving freely. This can be easy to fix by lubricating the mechanism. You can make use of brake cleaner to get rid of any rust or grime or a commercial lubricant like white grease. This method is only effective on a cylinder that has become jammed. It can't solve any other problems.
Door Lock Repair
A door lock could be blocked because of dirt, rust, or other debris. It can be fixed by spraying WD-40 on the mechanism. This will help to unjam the mechanism and prevent the issue from happening in the future. If repair car lock can't get the lock to turn, try moving the rod up and down using needle-nose pliers. If this doesn't help, you should call locksmiths to replace the lock.
Another issue with door locks is misalignment. This can make the lock difficult to use and poses a security risk because it makes the door easier to get around in a burglary attempt. This issue can be fixed by a locksmith. However, it is often possible to fix the issue on your own.
Begin by looking at the lock to determine what's causing it not to work correctly. If the issue is caused by a deadbolt that is not aligned properly or a strike plate then tighten the screws that hold these components. Then, reposition the strike plate and bolt to align them correctly with the door frame.
A little graphite can be used to solve the problem if the key is unable to move or turn. You can apply graphite by squeezing the tube or dusting the key with a spare. Then, insert the key and operate it several times to get the graphite into the mechanism. If this doesn't work, you can remove the doorknob, and then check the spindle. It might be worn out.
The process to remove the door handle or door panel differs from vehicle to vehicle, however the general procedure is identical. After you have removed the panel, locate all of the set screws that secure the lock cylinder. They are located on the inside of the handle or in the middle of the panel, depending on the model. Remove the screws and then carefully shift the cylinder until it is in alignment with the keyway. Be careful not over tightening the screw, or you could end up damaging the components.
Door Lock Replacement
If your lock is deteriorating or just looking a bit old, replacing it will provide a new appearance. It's a fairly simple procedure that can be accomplished at home using only a few simple steps. Take the time to measure the deadbolt and latch settings on your door. You'll need make sure that your new locks have been installed correctly.
Begin by removing the screws that hold the knob plate inside to the door. Then, pull the knob as well as latch off. If the interior plate is decorative and does not have screws, gently pry it up with the screwdriver. The plate may be held in place by pins or snap off the edge. Once the plate is removed, you are able to easily take off the dead bolt and latch and put them away.
Now it's time to get the new plates for your lock in place. Make sure that the interior and exterior plates are lined up over the deadbolt holes in the door jamb and the long spindle made of metal from the lock cylinder mechanism passing through both holes. After the plates are set, you can thread the screws into the holes to secure the plates together. If the plate doesn't have any screwholes, you can just slide it over the latch.
When putting the lock back together, be sure not to reuse the existing screws (unless you have the same color). Use the screws included in your new lock kit instead. If you don't have the right size of screws, go to your hardware store or home improvement store to purchase ones that be compatible with the rest of your door lock's hardware.
Make sure that the new deadbolt and latch plates are the same length as the original ones and that they are placed over the latch hole in the door jamb. Once all the parts are in place and tightened, tighten the screws. You can now test out the deadbolt and latch using your key. If the key won't turn, you should call an locksmith.