How to Repair Car Lock Actuator
If your door locks that are powered don't respond when you press the lock button on your keyfob it could be a sign that your actuator is damaged. In this case, lubricating it will usually fix the problem.
It is best to talk to an expert auto locksmith.
Locking the door
Locked out of the car can be a traumatic experience however there are several options to get back inside. If you are covered by roadside assistance with AAA or another service they can send a locksmith, however you might also be able return to your car using DIY tools and methods. These methods work best for cars with doors that are powered by electricity. These can be opened using the lock button on the armrest, or a keychain.
For this method, you will need a wire hanger, which is straightened out and made into a hook on one end, or some other long, rigid tool that will not break under pressure. It should be sufficient in length to reach the car lock button or the door handle. The other end must include a hook that can catch the latch. Also, you will require tools like pliers to secure the hanger's end and a pair of tweezers to manipulate the hanger.
First, you'll need to create a space between the window frame and the body. Then, slide the rod or hook from the hanger through the opening you have created, and try to slide or depress the door lock flipper or button using it. The door should then open with a bit of luck.
If your car comes with a digital lock then you'll need discover a way to open the doors from the inside. You can pull a lever located on the inside of the door to unlock it but first you have to find out how to access it. You can make use of a Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever.
In some cases none of the above methods are effective and you'll have to call an experienced locksmith. If that's the case, make sure you ask them how much it will cost before they arrive.
Unjamming the Keyhole
If the lock is stuck due to the key was inserted prior to it was fully engaged Try gently pushing the pin tumblers back into their proper alignment within the internal cylinder. This may help solve the issue, but pushing too hard could cause more damage to the. In this situation, it is best to seek out a locksmith.
A good way to prevent stuck keys is by keeping the lock lubricated with graphite spray or a silicone-based product. They are superior to oils-based products, like WD-40 which can attract dirt and dust. Apply the product to the lock, insert and turn the key several times, then jiggle the key in the hole to distribute the lubricant across the mechanism.
Powdered graphite is yet another product you should have in your toolbox. It works like a dry fluid. It helps to ensure smooth movement without attracting dirt and grime. It's safe to use with locks that have internal pin tumblers. Rub some grains of powder inside the lock. This will help to lubricate the lock and eliminate any gunk that might have accumulated around the keyhole.
In the end, it's essential to replace the key regularly to ensure it's in good condition and prevent it from becoming jammed over time. This will help it last longer and perform more efficiently.
If the key still isn't moving freely or is easily jammed, the key itself may be worn and requires replacement or a key recut. You can make use of a file to smooth out the sharp edges of the key teeth to avoid sticking in the future, but this is an activity for a professional.
If fix car lock G28 don't work, you can try to get rid of the stuck key by taking the strike plate out of the door frame and filing down the lower portion of the plate to increase the size of the opening into which the key can be inserted. If this doesn't work, it's best to call locksmiths who have the necessary tools to disassemble a locked car door and solve the problem. They'll have specialized tools that can enter the locking mechanisms to detach them, and they will be able to identify the reason the lock isn't functioning properly.
Unfreezing the Lock
With the Polar Vortex bringing cold temperatures and winter storms locks that are frozen are common. There are a few quick techniques you can employ to unfreeze the lock and unlock your vehicle. The first step is to chip away any large pieces of ice that block your lock cylinder. It is important to use care in this process to avoid damaging your car door or the lock cylinder.
Another common trick is to pour boiling water onto the lock. This might work for a while however it could harm the lock over time and also refreeze any moisture that remains in the lock cylinder. Pouring hot water into the lock cylinder can cause thermal shock, which can short out modern electronics inside the lock cylinder and door sensor. Using sharp or metal objects to break the lock or try to force the key in can also cause damage to your car's door or lock and could possibly cause an unusable lock.
A better option is to heat the key with a lighter or match and then insert it into the lock. Heating the key with a lighter or a hair dryer will give enough warmth to melt the ice that has been clinging to the lock cylinder, making it easier for you to insert the key and open the door. If you are unable to get the key in completely, just warm it up again and try again. You can remove ice from your lock by spraying grease on the lock, or using a commercial deicer.
An excellent idea is to park your car in the sun, and let the sun help to melt the lock. This can take a while to complete, but it's an extremely simple and cost-effective solution to a frozen lock issue. A de-icer bottle in your car for times such as this is also beneficial as the chemicals will quickly dissolve any ice and prevent future freezing.
Replace the Actuator
The actuator is a tiny motor that drives the lock using a set of gears. It can be activated by turning a key inside the door, or pressing an appropriate button from the remote device or a keyless entry device, or by activating it through a central control unit. It requires a small amount of power to operate and is prone to wear out over time. When it does wear out it may produce a buzzing sound or machine gun sound that won't stop until the actuator is replaced.
Most people can replace the actuator with a few tools and perseverance. The steps might differ between cars since manufacturers put the components together differently, but the basic procedure is the same. First, disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues from occurring during the repair. Remove the door panel in a safe manner from the car. Depending on the vehicle you have, you may need to remove the window or the regulator to gain access to the actuator.
After removing the panel you can see the actuator that is attached to the door latch. Usually the bolts that hold it in place can be removed using a screwdriver. The actuator can be removed from its mount. After the new actuator is installed, make sure you connect the connector to the wiring harness. Reconnect the cables and rods to the latch, actuator and door panel.
Replace any clips that have fallen off during removal. Make sure to check every screw to ensure that they are properly tightened. This will prevent any rattle or looseness. Reconnect all wires that were disconnected and test the actuator to make sure it works. Install the door panel, trim piece and battery. Then, perform another test. If your doors aren't functioning as they should, it may be time to replace the actuator.