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Auto Door Lock Repair – Replacing the Door Lock Actuator Many modern vehicles have automated door locks. But like any other moving part, they can break down or malfunction. If your power locks don't function, it could be a sign of an electrical issue, like a malfunctioning relay or a damaged battery. Try lubricating it with WD-40 or penetrating catalyst. This is usually a solution to the issue. Rekeying Rekeying the lock of your car involves changing the internal components to accommodate a different key configuration. This improves security for the vehicle while maintaining control of access. The art of rekeying allows DIY enthusiasts to address various security concerns, and the meticulous attention to the finer points of this job creates the foundation for reliability. Modern car locks employ the pin and tumbler system that works by having the ridges of keys are aligned with the pins of a lock's cylinder to trigger the shear line, which opens the latch mechanism to permit entry. Rekeying involves changing the pin and tumbler configuration to match a different key while preserving the proper alignment of the shear line. This stops unauthorized key usage. The lock cylinder may also include security features built-in like anti-drill or anti-pick pins to deter break-in attempts. Rekeying an auto door lock begins by removing the lock from the housing that surrounds it. The core is then disassembled and put back together. The key cylinder will then be fitted into the housing and the handle and fasteners will be put back together. The lock cylinder is tested to ensure that it functions correctly and reliably with the new key. To prevent damage to the lock or its parts, you will need the right tools to rekey an auto lock. Depending on the lock, some of the tools and materials you will need include: Plug followers are required to remove the plug without scattering pins. Pinning mat: The pinning mat is used to contain and organize the pins when changing the lock's key. Screwdriver set: A set of precision screwdrivers will facilitate disassembly and rebuilding the lock cylinder. Tweezers: Tweezers with precision are useful for manipulating and extracting small springs and other components. Rekeying an automobile door lock is a simple project, although it will take a few hours to complete the task. Make sure you plan for this amount of time when scheduling your rekeying project. Don't forget to add extra time in case of any unexpected delays or difficulties. It is also a good idea to seek out a professional for expert assistance. Replacement The door lock actuator is a crucial element in the operation of the power locks on most cars. When they are operating properly, they will retract and engage the latch when you press the button on your key fob or inside your vehicle to lock or unlock it. If you are having trouble with your power locks, it could be time to replace the door lock actuator. The actuator is electrical and can fail due to corrosion from dust, moisture, and other contaminants that are introduced into the components. The door lock actuator could also fail before it's time if it's physically damaged by an accident or a failed attempt to jimper the lock to open. Poor quality components can also cause the door lock actuator to fail prematurely, or completely. The door locks won't respond to the key fob, or buttons inside the vehicle when they are intermittently unresponsive. If you attempt to turn on the door lock, it makes the sound of a buzzing or rattles. Replacing the door lock actuator is a simple job that most auto shops can do in just one or two hours. The door panel, window, the inner door liner, and the rods for control of the lock need to be removed. They will also need to disconnect the lock rods as well as the electrical harness. Once they have the new actuator in hand they can install it inside the door, reconnect the rods and cable, and replace any damaged clips that may cause an unsettling sound or looseness in the door panel. A new door lock actuator can cost between $125 and $250 based on the make and model of your vehicle. If you decide to do the repair yourself, you will require a few tools to help with the procedure. You'll need tools to remove door handles for crank windows (about seven dollars at an automotive parts store) as well as an offset flat-blade screwdriver. When replacing an actuator that locks with power it is important not to reuse the old latch rod or door lock cable. This could cause your new door lock to fail. Repair Most modern vehicles have power door locks that are controlled by actuators. They are more complicated than mechanical lock cylinders found on older vehicles and can be more difficult to fix if they break. There are a variety of ways to repair them and they are usually inexpensive. The auto door lock in your car may need replacing due to electrical issues or physical damage or simply wear and tear over time. One common cause of a door lock with a power source that fails to work is a blown fuse. The fuse is responsible for sending a signal to the doors that triggers the motor, which opens or closes them. You can replace the fuse yourself and it's fairly cheap. Another possible problem is an actuator that is worn out. You can tell if you have a defective actuator by its symptoms like a lack of door lock operation, or unusual noises. Test the actuator with a digital multimeter. If the multimeter indicates that the actuator is receiving power but it does not trigger the power locks then the actuator may be defective. G28CarKeys to determine the problem with an actuator is to take the door panel and then visually inspect it. The actuator is usually situated close to the handle. It is also possible to jimmy the lock mechanism open by wriggling it up and down while pressing the button to lock or unlock the car. If the mechanism isn't loose or cracked it's likely to be jammed. WD-40 is a fantastic solvent to be used to loosen mechanisms. A can of this solvent is sold at a wide range of home improvement stores and automotive supply stores and is comparatively inexpensive. Use straws that are long and thin to inject the lubricant into the lock. If the mechanism remains jammed an penetrating catalyst may be used to reduce corrosion and restore function. If you've tried these different methods but the lock is still unable to work then it's time to get a professional. Installation If your car door lock isn't working as it should, it can be a big inconvenience and may make driving unsafe. Doors for cars can be repaired and restored to full functionality without the need to replace them. Many people do not think about their car's door locks until they stop functioning, but the reality is that the doors on your car are one of its most crucial safety features. The way in which a car door lock works is based on a complicated system of mechanics which includes a control rod, latch, and knob. Depending on the model, these components could be controlled by the interior buttons or the key fob. The body controller sends a signal to the actuator when it receives a key fob signal or an interior button signal. A faulty actuator may cause your door locks powered by electricity to stop working and this is not ideal for security or convenience. In addition, some modern cars incorporate their locking systems with other electrical systems, so an unreliable actuator could affect these functions too. There are several common signs that the door lock actuator in your car is malfunctioning. Common signs of a malfunctioning door lock actuator include inconsistent operation and unusual noises. If the door locks with power don't work when you press the key fob, you could hear some strange buzzing or whirring noise. This is because the actuator isn't properly connecting with the latch and anchor. If you're experiencing these symptoms, the best thing to do is contact a professional locksmith. They'll be able to assess the situation and figure out how to restore your door locks to working order. Some auto lock repairs can be done by an average person, but a professional technician has the tools and expertise to tackle more complex issues. In many instances, a professional locksmith can fix the issue and return the auto door lock to a working state without the necessity of replacing it.