Car Locks Repair

A car locksmith is typically capable of working with both electronic and manual door locks. Manual lock issues are more frequent, but they can be an issue to address.

WD-40 is a good oil to use in the winter. 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 it, it's a good idea to replace the door lock cylinders as quickly as possible. This will ensure that you're only the person who can open your car, and keep other unauthorized people out of it. It isn't easy to replace a door lock cylinder, since it usually requires disassembling the interior door panel. This isn't something that many people would like to attempt by themselves, as it could be extremely dangerous if done improperly.

The lock cylinder is removed from the handle first. You will need to locate the screw on the top of the lock housing (usually the upper right corner). You may find it concealed under plastic pieces or barely visible. If you are unable to locate it, use a screwdriver to remove the trim panels blocking your view of the screw. Then, use a screwdriver, awl, or small screwdriver to open the lock cylinder retaining tab and pull the cylinder straight out of the housing.

After you have removed the cylinder you'll need to do a few things to prepare it for use. The keyway must be cleaned to remove dirt and grease. The cylinder should be lubricated so that it does not stick in the lock. The easiest method of doing this is to use a brake cleaner, which will clean and lubricate the lock cylinder components. After cleaning you can take off the 10mm bolt holding the handle to the cylinder housing with a screwdriver.

Install the new cylinder and then use your original key to operate it. It is recommended to purchase one that is the same brand and model of your current one because it is more likely to fit correctly and provide a secure seal. After it's installed check the door to ensure that the lock functions properly and the door is shut securely.

Door Lock Cylinder Repair

The lock cylinder is the part of your car door keys fit into to unlock or secure the door. If you're having difficulty turning the key in the lock, or if it gets stuck, then this is an indication that the door cylinder could be damaged and need replacing.

The lock is usually situated near the door handle. However, some automobiles place it behind a piece plastic. When you turn your key, the pins in the cylinder line up with cuts on the head of the key, allowing you to move the lock and open your car door. If you have a surface mounted cylinder, remove faceplate from the door handle. Unscrew any or all setscrews for the cylinder.

Once the screw is removed, you can rotate the cylinder until you can take it out of the door. Place the screws in a bag or in a safe location to replace them in the future. Then put the key in the lock and verify that the tumblers or pins are moving freely. If you feel or hear an erupting sound or if the cylinder is seized and needs to be replaced, it's best to replace it.

You can purchase a new cylinder for your vehicle at any auto parts shop but you'll need be aware of the model and make of your vehicle before you shop. You can also speak with a professional locksmith to replace the door cylinder. They'll be able to match the new unit with the key you have, so you can use 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 dirt or corrosion that has built up, preventing the cylinder from circulating freely. This is easy to solve by lubricating the mechanism. You can apply brake cleaner to rid the cylinder of any rust or grime or a commercial lubricant such as white grease. This method only works on a cylinder that has become jammed. It won't fix any other issues.

Door Lock Repair

A door lock may be stuck due to rust, dirt, or other debris. This can be fixed by spraying WD-40 on the mechanism. This will allow you to loosen the mechanism and prevent the issue from occurring in the future. If you are unable to get the lock to turn, try wiggle the rod upwards and downwards using needle-nose pliers. If this doesn't help you, you must contact locksmiths to replace the lock.

Misalignment is another common problem with doorlocks. This can make the lock difficult to use and is a security issue because it makes the door more difficult to get around in a burglary attempt. Locksmiths should be contacted to correct this issue, but you can usually solve the issue yourself.

Begin by looking at the lock to determine what is causing it not to work correctly. If the issue is due to a deadbolt that is not aligned properly or a strike plate then tighten the screws that secure these components. Then, move the strike plate and bolt to ensure that they are aligned correctly with the door frame.

A little graphite can be used to solve the issue when the key won't insert or turn. You can apply graphite by squeeze 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, you can remove the doorknob, and then check the spindle. It could be worn out.

The process of taking off a door handle or panel differs based on the vehicle, but is generally the same. After removing the panel you'll have 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. Remove the screws and then carefully reposition the cylinder so that it is aligned correctly with the keyway. You may damage the components if you overtighten the screws.

Door Lock Replacement

If your lock is worn out or looks a bit old, replacing it could provide a new look. This is a simple job that you can complete at home in just a few steps. Be sure to make sure you examine the deadbolt and latch settings, as you will need to make sure that the new locks are correctly set.

Begin by taking off the screws that secure the inside knob plate to the door. Pull the knob and latch out. If the inside plate has no screws and is purely decorative take it off gently with the screwdriver. It could be secured by pins or it could snap off at the edge. After the plate is removed, it is easy to take off the deadbolt as well as the latch.

Now it's time to get the new plates in place. The exterior and interior plates should be lined up with the deadbolt holes on the door jamb. The long spindle made of metal of the lock cylinder needs to pass through both holes. Once the plates are positioned, hand-thread screws into the screw holes in automatic car door lock repair order to hold them together loosely. If the plate isn't equipped with screw holes, you can simply 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). Instead make use of the screws included in your new lock kit. If you don't have the right size of screws, visit your hardware or home improvement store and buy screws that match the rest of your door lock's hardware.

Make sure that your new deadbolts and latch plates are exactly the same size as originals, and that they're centered over the hole in the jamb. Once everything is in place you can push the remaining screws in order to tighten them securely. Now you can check the latch and deadbolt with your key. If the key won't turn then it's time to contact a locksmith.