Car Locks Repair
Typically, a locksmith for cars will work with both doors that are powered and manual. Manual lock problems are more common however, they can be difficult to solve.
A good way to prevent this is to apply a lubricant for the door lock in winter such as WD-40. It will help to displace moisture and stop it from freezing within the keyhole.
Door Lock Cylinder Replacement
If you lost your car keys, or suspect that someone has the keys, it's best to replace the door lock cylinders immediately. This will ensure that you're the sole person who can open your car and keep thieves and other unauthorized people out of it. Unfortunately, replacing a car door cylinder can be quite difficult, as it requires at minimum removal of the door's interior panel in most instances. This is not a job that the majority of people would want to tackle on their own, since it can be very dangerous in the wrong way.
First, the lock cylinder needs to be removed from the handle. You'll need to locate the screw at the end of the housing (usually upper right corner). It could be hidden beneath some plastic pieces or just barely visible. If you cannot locate it, use a screwdriver to remove any trim panels that are blocking your view of the screw. Make use of a pick, an Awl, or a small screwdriver and let the tab on the lock cylinder. Then remove the cylinder of the housing.
After removing the cylinder, you'll need to do some things to prepare it for use. The keyway should be cleaned of grease and dirt, and the cylinder needs to be lubricated to keep it from squeezing into the lock. This can be done by using brake cleaner. It will clean and lubricate the parts of the lock cylinder. After the cleaner has been employed then you can use a screwdriver remove the 10mm bolt that holds the handle to the cylinder housing.
Install the new cylinder and then use the original key to operate it. It is recommended to purchase a cylinder with the same model and brand as your existing one. This will ensure that it fits correctly and seals securely. Test the door after installation to confirm that the lock is operating properly and that it is shut securely.
Door Lock Cylinder Repair
The lock cylinder on your car is the part that the key goes into to unlock or secure the door. If the key is stuck inside the lock, or you have difficulty turning it, it could be a sign that the cylinder for your door needs to be replaced.
The lock is usually placed near the door handle. However, some cars hide it behind a piece of plastic. When you turn the key, the pins in the cylinder align with the cuts on the head of the key which allows you to move the lock to unlock the car door. If you have a cylinder mounted on a surface remove the faceplate from the door handle, then remove one or two cylinder setscrews.
After the screw has been removed, you can rotate it until you are able to take the door off. Be careful not to loose any screws during this, so put them in a bag or safe place so that you can replace them in the future. Then, you need to take the key and put it in the lock to see if the tumblers/pins are moving freely or getting stuck. If you feel or hear a click or the cylinder is stuck then it's time to replace it.
You can purchase a new cylinder for your car at any auto parts store, although you'll need to know the model and make of your car before you go shopping. You can also call a professional locksmith to replace the door cylinder. They'll be able to match the new lock to the key you have, so you will be able to continue using your original lock.
The most common problem with a car lock cylinder is that it won't turn when you try to use your key. This can be due to dirt or corrosion that has built up, preventing the cylinder from turning freely. It is easy to fix this problem by lubricating your mechanism. You can make use of brake cleaner to get rid of any grime or rust or 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 stuck due to rust, dirt, or other debris. It can be fixed by spraying WD-40 onto the mechanism. This will clear the mechanism and prevent it from happening again in the future. If you can't get the lock to turn, try wiggle the rod up and down with needle-nose pliers. If this doesn't help, you should call an locksmith to repair the lock.
A misalignment issue is another frequent issue when it comes to door locks. This could make it difficult to use the lock and also a security issue because it allows for easier access to the door in a bid to gain entry. This issue can be addressed by a locksmith, but it is usually possible to fix the issue yourself.
Start by examining the lock to determine what is causing it to stop working properly. If the problem is caused by an incorrectly aligned strike plate or deadbolt, tighten the screws that secure the two items. Reposition the strikeplate and bolt to align them with the door frame.
A little graphite can be used to resolve the issue if the key will not move or turn. You can apply graphite by squeeze the tube or dusting an old key. Put the key in into the lock, and then turn it a couple of times to work the graphite into the mechanism. If this does not work, you may take the knob off and check the spindle; it may be worn out.
The process for removing a door handle or panel is different based on the vehicle, but it is generally the same. After removing the panel, you will be required to locate the set screws that hold the lock cylinder. These screws are located on either the inside of the handle or in the middle of the panel, depending on the model. Unscrew the screws and carefully shift the cylinder until it is aligned correctly with the keyway. There is a risk of damaging the components if you tighten too much the screws.
Door Lock Replacement
Replace your lock if it is worn or looks a little old. It can give you a fresh look. This is a simple job that you can do at home in just a few steps. Be sure to make sure you measure your door's latch and deadbolt settings, as you will need to ensure that your new locks are correctly set.
Remove the screws that fix the knob plate inside the door. Then, pull the knob as well as latch off. If the inside plate has no screws and is decorative, gently pry it off with an screwdriver. The plate could be held in place by a pin or may just snap off the edge. Once G28 has been removed, you can take out the deadbolt and latch.
Now it's time to get the new plates in the proper position. The interior and exterior plates must be aligned with the deadbolt holes of the door jamb. The long metal spindle of the lock cylinder should pass through both holes. After you have the plates set, insert screws into the screw holes in order to hold them together loosely. If the plate isn't equipped with screw holes, then you can simply slide it on the latch.
When putting the lock back together, be sure not to reuse the old screws (unless you have the identical color). Use the screws included in the new lock kit instead. If you don't have the correct size screws, go to a home improvement or hardware shop and buy some that are compatible with the hardware used on your new door lock.
Make sure that your 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. After all the components are in place then tighten the screws. Now you can test the latch and deadbolt using your key. If the key won't turn, you should call locksmith.