When you’re in a hurry to get somewhere, you press your car remote to unlock it and nothing happens. You are getting frustrated because it locks you out of your automobile. What could be wrong?
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Car lock problems are very common. There are several causes of a car door lock malfunction. To keep your car and your valuables safe, you must first identify the root problem and solve it.
Here are some of the most common reasons your car door lock is malfunctioning:
Your Key Fob Battery Is Dead
As simple as it sounds, this might cause a car door lock to malfunction. A dead key fob battery is one of the most common reasons for auto lock malfunctioning. Like most batteries, your key fob batteries wear out with time. Replacing these batteries could solve your car lock issue.
These batteries are the size of a coin and are easy to find. However, it is important to reference your owner’s manual for accurate size. As a general rule, replace fob batteries at regular intervals.
You Have A Blown Fuse Situation
A blown fuse is another common hurdle in locking and unlocking car doors. This is because car doors rely on the command of a fuse to perform these functions. In most cases, one or several fuses connect to the power locking system to protect it from short circuits or electrical damage. However, these fuses can get damaged because of high voltage.
You can inspect the door lock fuse. The fuse is usually under the glove box at the passenger’s side. Keep in mind that blown fuses will make sounds upon shaking and produce a burning smell.
You can also confirm by checking if the small metal squiggle present in the middle of the fuse is connected or not. Once confirmed, replace the fuse with a new one of the same amperage as the old fuse. You need to fix a blown fuse immediately to protect your car from break-ins.
Your Car Key Fob is Faulty
Unfortunately, malfunctioning key fobs are more complex to deal with than dead batteries. Unlike malfunctioning key fobs, dead batteries only require replacement with new ones. You may notice that even after replacing the batteries, the problem persists. Then, the problem is not with the battery, rather it is mechanical.
External factors can affect the circuit or other functional components of the fob. The good news is that an experienced automotive professional can diagnose the problem and fix it for you. The expert will link the fob to a computer to confirm an accurate signal response. However, if that fails, replacing the fob will be your only option.
You Have a Malfunctioning Solenoid On Your Hands
If you notice that one door does not work, but others do, the problem could be with the door lock solenoid. This is because every door has its own solenoid. You might wonder, what is a solenoid?
A solenoid is a type of electromagnet used in modern locking systems. It links the plunger to the latch and enables the doors to lock or unlock. You can find it in the list of advanced safety features of your car.
Fixing a malfunctioning solenoid is a straightforward process. All you need to do is to remove the door panel, locate it and replace the old solenoid with a new one.
You Have a Broken Or Loose Wire Problem
The control unit of an automobile connects all the electrically controlled systems. This connection makes a complex network of wires that runs throughout the car. If the wiring of your car is loose or worn out, your doors won’t lock.
Besides having loose wirings, your car could have a broken wire problem. To check for a broken wire, hold the lock switch either up or down. Then, open and try closing the door to see if it works. If it works sometimes, you most likely have a broken wire problem.
Wiring issues are complex problems that require the help of automotive professionals. Regardless of the scale of a fixture, you will need specialized devices to locate it.
You Have Worn-Out Or Broken Locks and Keys
This problem is peculiar to cars that have a manual locking system. The keys or lock can wear out with time, causing car lock damage. The damage could make the car lock unable to recognize key patterns or vice versa.
If this is the problem, your best approach will be to visit a qualified automotive locksmith. Fixing it at home can be a very challenging task. However, this is one issue you should not ignore. Fix it immediately.
You Have a Broken Actuator
Remember the solenoid? Well, it doesn’t work alone. The actuator connects with the solenoid inside the door panel. It enables the door to lock or unlock with a simple push.
When the actuator malfunctions, it disrupts the entire process of locking and unlocking doors. A faulty actuator will cause the car not to lock or unlock properly.
The Presence of Obstructions
Obstructions such as dirt, grime, or worn-out pieces of rubber can cause your car door lock to malfunction. The simplest way to identify this problem is with the help of a car fob. Unlock your car and carefully listen to the lock sound.
If you hear a lock sound but the door refuses to open, there is a physical obstruction holding the door. Lubricants or WD40 can serve as quick fixes, but it is better to visit an expert for complete car detailing.
What To Do When Your Car Door Lock Malfunctions
If you have tried quick fixes like replacing dead batteries or applying lubricants, and the malfunction persists. Then, you need professional help. Hire a trusted automotive locksmith. They possess the experience, expertise, and equipment that you need to get your car door lock functioning properly.
Conclusion
Over the years, the car locking system has changed from manual to automatic. While modern power locking systems have a lot of circuits and complicated pieces like extra fuses and wiring, which makes them more reliable, it also increases the chances of failure.
Luckily, professionals can identify and fix any car lock malfunction you might struggle with. Visit a car locksmith in Arizona today for all your car lock needs.