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How to Repair Car Lock Actuator If your power door lock isn't responding when you press the lock button on your key fob, it may be an indication of a fried actuator. In this case it is usually lubricating the actuator that will solve the issue. It is best to talk to an expert auto locksmith. Locking the door Being locked out of your vehicle can be a stressful experience, but there are several options to get back inside. If you're a member of AAA or another service with roadside assistance, they will send a locksmith to help you, however, you may be able to get back inside using DIY tools and methods. These methods will work best with cars that have power door locks, which can be opened by pressing the lock button on the armrest, or using the keychain. This method requires a straightened-out wire hanger with a hook on one end or a longer, stiff tool that will not bend under pressure. It will need to be long enough to reach the car door handle or the lock button, and should include a hook on one end to catch the latch inside the door. car locksmith will also require pliers and long tweezers in order to move the hanger. You will first have to make a space between the top of the window frame of your car and the body. Then, insert the rod or hook from the hanger through the gap you've made, and then try to slide or press the door lock flipper or button using it. With a little luck, the door will open. If your car comes with a digital lock then you will have to discover a way to open the doors from the inside. You can pull a lever on the inside of the door to open it, but first you need to find out how to get to it. You can use the Slim Jim or another long tool to reach the lever. In some instances, none of the above methods will be effective, and you'll need to call a locksmith for help. Ask them about the price they'll charge you prior to their arrival. Unjamming the Keyhole If the lock is stuck because the key was inserted prior to it was fully engaged, try to gently push the pin tumblers into their correct alignment in the internal cylinder. This may help solve the issue however, pushing too hard could cause more damage to the. In this instance, it is best to call an expert locksmith. Keep the lock lubricated using graphite spray, or a silicone based product. These are better than products based on oil, like WD-40, which can attract dirt and other debris. Apply the product on the lock. Insert and turn the key a few times. Then, jiggle the keys in the hole. Another useful item to have in your bag is powdered graphite, which works similar to a dry lubricant. It promotes smooth movement between metal surfaces, without attracting dirt or grime, and it's also safe to use on locks that have internal pin tumblers. Try rubbing a few grains of the powder inside the lock to help lubricate it and get rid of any gunk that has been accumulating in the keyhole. It's also crucial to replace your key on a regular basis to ensure it's in good shape and also to keep it from becoming jammed in the future. This will help it last longer and work more efficiently. If the key isn't moving freely or is prone to jamming, the key itself may be worn and requires replacement or a key recut. You can employ an instrument to smooth the sharp points on the teeth of the key to avoid any further sticking, but this is an activity for an experienced. If the above suggestions don't work, you can try to free the key stuck by taking the strike plate off the door frame and filing down the lower portion of the plate to increase the size of the opening in which the key can be inserted. If this doesn't work, it's best to call a locksmith who has the tools required to take apart a locked car door and solve the issue. They'll have the tools to disengage the locking mechanisms and will be in a position to determine the reason the reason why the lock isn't working correctly. Unfreezing the Lock With the Polar Vortex bringing cold temperatures and winter storms locks that are frozen are very common. The good news is that there are a few simple tricks to unfreezing the lock, allowing you to unlock your car. The first step is to try and chip away any large ice chunks that are preventing the lock cylinder from receiving the key. It is important to use caution when doing this to keep from damaging your car's door or the lock cylinder. Another trick that is commonly used is to pour boiling water onto the lock. This might work for a while however it could harm the lock in the end 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 in the lock cylinder and door sensor. Using sharp objects or metal to break the lock or attempt to force the key in can cause damage to your car's door or lock, and could lead to a broken lock. A better alternative is to heat the key using match or lighter and then insert it into the lock. Heating the key with a lighter or a hair dryer will create enough heat to melt the ice that is coating the lock's cylinder. This will make it easier for you to turn the key in and unlock the door. If you're unable to insert the key fully into the lock, warm it up again, and try. Using commercial de-icer on your key or spraying the lock with grease can help get rid of any ice in the lock. Another option is to place your car in the sun and let the sunlight help to melt the lock. It may take some time but it's an inexpensive and simple solution to a locked that has frozen. Having a can of de-icer in your car for an emergency like this is also a good idea as the chemicals will quickly melt any ice and stop future freezing. Replace the Actuator The actuator is a tiny motor that drives the lock via a series of gears. It can be activated by turning a key inside the door, pressing the button on the remote device or a keyless entry device, or by activating it through a central control unit. It is a very low-power device which can wear out over time. If it wears out, it can produce a buzzing sound or machine gun sound that won't stop until the actuator is replaced. Replacing the actuator is an easy task for people with a few tools and a little patience. The steps will vary between vehicles, as manufacturers might put together parts in different ways. However, the basic procedure remains the same. First disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues from arising during the repair. Remove the door panel with care from the vehicle. Depending on the car you might also have to remove the window and/or regulator in order to gain access to the actuator. After removing the panel you can see the actuator that is attached to the door latch. The bolts that hold the actuator 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. Once the trim panel is reinstalled, you must replace any clips that fell off during removal. Make sure to check the screws to make sure they are securely tightened. This will stop any looseness or rattle. Reconnect all wires that were disconnected and test the actuator to make sure it works. Install the door panel, trim piece, and battery. Then, conduct another test. If your doors aren't working as they should, it could be time to replace your actuator.