Car Locks Repair
A car locksmith is typically able to work with both manual and electric door locks. Manual lock issues are more frequent however, they can be frustrating.
A good preventative measure is to apply a lubricant for the door lock in winter, like WD-40. It will displace the moisture and prevent it from freezing in the keyhole.
Door Lock Cylinder Replacement
It's a good idea replace the door lock's cylinders right away if you lose your car keys, or suspect that someone else might have. This will ensure that you're only the person who has the ability to open your car, and keep burglars and other unauthorised people out of it. Unfortunately replacing a car's door cylinder can be quite difficult, since it requires at a minimum disassembly of the interior door panel in most cases. This isn't something that most people will want to attempt on their own, since it can be very dangerous if done improperly.
First, the lock cylinder must be removed from the handle. You'll need to locate the screw on the end of the housing (usually upper right corner). It may be hidden behind several pieces of plastic or barely visible. If you are unable to locate it then use a screwdriver to remove any trim panels that are blocking your view of the screw. Use a pick, an Awl, or a small screwdriver and let the tab on the lock cylinder. Then, pull the cylinder out of the housing.
Once the cylinder has been removed and reassembled, there are some things that must be done to prepare it to be used. The keyway needs to be cleared of grease and dirt and the cylinder must be lubricated to keep it from sticking in the lock. The most efficient method to accomplish this is to use brake cleaner, which will both clean and lubricate the lock components of the cylinder. After cleaning the cylinder it is possible to remove the 10mm bolt that holds the handle to the cylinder housing with the help of a screwdriver.
Install the new cylinder and then use your original key to operate it. It is a good idea to choose a cylinder that matches the brand and model of the one you have, as this will be more likely to fit correctly and provide a secure seal. Test the door after installation to make sure that the lock is working correctly and is closed securely.
Door Lock Cylinder Repair
The lock cylinder is the part of your car's door that the key fits into to unlock or lock the door. If the key is stuck in the lock or you are having difficulty turning it, it could indicate that the cylinder for your door needs to be replaced.
The lock is typically placed near the door handle. However, some vehicles put it behind a piece plastic. When you turn the key, the pins of the cylinder line up with the cuts on the head of the key which allows you to move the lock and open the car door. If you have a cylinder that is mounted on the surface remove the faceplate from the door handle and unscrew one or two setscrews for the cylinder.
Once updated blog post 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 in the future. Then, you need to take the key and put it in the lock to determine if the tumblers/pins are moving freely or getting stuck. If the cylinder is stuck or you feel or hear the click then it's time to replace it.
You can buy new cylinders at any auto parts store, but you will be required to know your car's model and make before you go shopping. You can also call a locksmith to change your door cylinder. They will be able match the new unit with your current key, meaning you can use your original lock.
The most common problem with a car lock cylinder is that it will not turn when you try to use your key. This is usually caused by dirt or corrosion that has built up in the cylinder, preventing it from turning freely. It is simple to fix this issue by lubricating the mechanism. You can make use of brake cleaner to rid your cylinder of any rust and grime or commercial lubricant such as white grease. This method only works on a jammed cylinder. It won't fix any other problems.
Door Lock Repair
Rust, dirt or other debris can cause the door lock to stop. This can be fixed by spraying WD-40 over the mechanism. This will free the mechanism and prevent it from happening again in the future. If you're unable to turn the lock, try wiggle the rod using needle-nosed pliers. If this doesn't work then a locksmith should be called to fix the lock.
A misalignment issue is another frequent issue when it comes to door locks. This makes it difficult to use the lock and also a security issue because it makes it easier to bypass the door in a bid to get in. This issue can be addressed by a locksmith, but it is often possible to solve the issue yourself.
Start by examining the lock to determine the reason for it not to work properly. If the problem is due to an incorrectly aligned strike plate or deadbolt tighten the screws that secure these items. Reposition the strikeplate and bolt to align them with the door frame.
A small amount of graphite can be used to resolve the problem if the key won't insert or turn. You can apply graphite by squeezing the tube or dusting a spare key. Then, insert the key and operate it a few times to get the graphite into the mechanism. If this isn't working then you should take off the doorknob and check the spindle. It may be worn out.
The procedure to remove the door handle or door panel differs from vehicle to car, but the general procedure is identical. After removing the panel, you'll have to find the set screws that are holding the lock cylinder. These 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 align the cylinder with the keyway. You may damage the components if tightening too tightly the screws.
Door Lock Replacement
Replace your lock if it is damaged or appears old. It will give you a new appearance. It's a simple task that can be accomplished at home using a few easy steps. Make sure you take the time to examine the deadbolt and latch in order to make sure that the new locks are set correctly.
Begin by stripping the screws that attach the knob plate inside to the door. Then, pull the knob and latch off. If the inside plate has no screws and is decorative remove it gently using a screwdriver. The plate could be secured by pins or break off from the edge. Once the plate is removed, you can easily take out the deadbolt and latch.
It's time to put in the new plates for your lock. Make sure that the inside and exterior plates are lined up over the deadbolt hole in the jamb for the door and that the long spindle of metal from the lock cylinder mechanism passing through both holes. Once you have the plates placed, you can thread screws through the screw holes to secure them in place. If the plate doesn't have screw holes, you can simply slide it on the latch.
Use the screws included in your new lock kit instead of the screws you already have. Use the screws included in your new lock kit instead. If you don't already have the correct size screws, go to a hardware or home improvement shop and purchase a set of screws that are compatible with the hardware on your new door lock.
Make sure that the new latch plates and deadbolt are the same length as the original ones, and that they are aligned over the latch hole on the door jamb. After all the components are in place and tightened, tighten the screws. You can now test the deadbolt and latch with your key. If the key isn't turning, it's time to call a locksmith.