Door Lock Repairs You Can Do Yourself
It is crucial to fix the door lock as soon as it starts to show signs. In the event that it doesn't, you risk leaving your property vulnerable to burglaries.
Many of the most common problems with door locks can be fixed without contacting a professional. Learn more about the most frequently occurring problems with door locks and how to fix them yourself.
Damaged Cylinder of Lock Cylinder
While they are less common on modern vehicles, as power door locks are now the norm, car owners should be aware and watch for any damage to their door lock cylinders. This is the mechanical tumbler that your keys slide into. It's prone to wear or break, causing keys to become stuck or hard to turn. If you observe this happening to your vehicle, it's important to take action quickly to stop the problem from worsening.
The easiest way to fix this problem is by spraying the inside of the cylinder with compressed air to clear out any debris that could be blocking it. You can also try lubricating it using a graphite or silicone spray, but be careful not to use too much as this can cause the pins to wear out quicker. If your key is still refusing to turn, it may be time to replace the cylinder, or have it professionally repaired by a locksmith.
After you've sprayed your cylinder and tried using the same key, it could be necessary to loosen the screws that hold the cylinder and then manually move it so that it is aligned properly with the keyhole on the door. Retighten the screws, but not too tightly as this could cause internal components to wear out or get damaged.
You may also have to remove the faceplate from the lock in accordance with the type. If so, you'll find them behind seams or indentations on the edge of the faceplate or by inserting screwscrewdrivers or putty knives into these areas. After removing the faceplate of the lock, make use of a screwdriver to disassemble its internal components. Replace any worn or damaged parts.
When reassembling the lock ensure that you secure the faceplate securely and fix the screws. Test the cylinder by inserting and turning it. If you are having difficulty doing this, it's likely time to call an expert because the lock cylinder may require replacement.
Loose Door Handles
Over time, a door handle will loosen and start to spin or fall off completely. This can be a huge issue as it makes the door difficult to open and endangers those using it. It is important to understand why the handle is loosened, and how it can easily be repaired.
In most cases, this is down to a screw in the door plate that needs tightening. Certain modern doors have chassis screws hidden in the door which are difficult to reach, but older designs will have them accessible and visible. The screws can be tightened easily. It is best to employ a threadlocker to secure them in the right position.
If the screw is exposed you can remove the handle and expose the screws to tighten. You might need to loosen the ring around the handle's base first, then pull it off from the knob by pressing the metal detent pin. You can then take off the rose and expose the screws for the mounting plate that you can tighten. Examine the strike plate screws that hold the plate to the edge of the doorway. This is where the latch snaps in when it closes.
Sometimes, the problem is the spring cassette in the handle. This may break down over time, but usually it's due to wear and tear, and will require a simple replacement.
You can do it yourself, or your local locksmith will install it for you. There are many kinds of cassettes that are available to choose from, so be sure to select the correct one for your handle type.
It can also be down to a broken faceplate or mounting ring but this is very rare with the newer handles. You can find the replacement at a hardware store or online. After you have fitted the new piece, you'll be required to tighten all fixings and then reconnect the handle. You should also re-align the holes on the handle with the holes on the plate. If you're concerned that this is too much of a DIY task, a locksmith will offer a price.
Keys that won't turn
There are many reasons that keys may not turn inside of locks. This is often due to a lack lubrication. You can fix this by using a lubricant like WD-40 or a silicone-based spray. The pins will move up and down when you insert the key and apply the lubricant.
Sometimes keys are the source of the issue. The tip of a key will become blunt in time, especially if it's used for other purposes than just to gain entry into your home. The key may not fit into the lock cylinder in a proper way, causing it to become stuck or jammed in the lock. In this situation, re-tipping the key with a bastard file can make it fit in the lock better.
A key that isn't turning in a lock may also be damaged or bent. The edge of a key may be bent when it is used to cut or open cans. This could also stop the key from fitting into the lock cylinder in a proper way. In this situation it is possible to re-tippe the key using a bastard file or replacing the entire key might be required to resolve the problem.
It is crucial to understand that gluing the two pieces of metal is not a viable option if a key has broken inside a lock. This can actually lead to further damage to the mechanism of the lock It is recommended to call a locksmith who provides replacement keys to fix the problem.
If the key is not broken, it could be that the lock cylinder is blocked by dust or other debris. In this instance, it can be helpful to warm the cylinder by placing the key in hot water for a few minutes. After the cylinder has been warmed up, you will be capable of inserting the key into the cylinder to unlock the door. You can also make use of a hairdryer to blow hot air directly into the lock to thaw out the mechanism.
Sticky Locks
Locks are a vital part of home security. However, they're often overlooked until they stop working correctly. Locks that stick are a frequent problem, but they're not difficult to fix yourself, and doing so can stop bigger issues from developing.
A malfunctioning mechanism is among the most common causes of stuck locks. This can be easily fixed with a bit of cleaning and lubrication.
A dry lubricant like sprays of WD-40 or GT85 spray is a typical solution. The key is inserted into lock and rotated back and forward to spread the lubricant on the internal mechanisms. The key must now be removed and the lock will be able to turn smoothly again.
Another option is to choose an lubricant made of graphite. Graphite is a fantastic oil to use on small metal parts. auto door lock repair G28CarKeys won't wash off or attract dirt, as opposed to oil-based solutions. Powdered graphite is sold at a wide range of hardware stores and can be sprayed onto the keyhole directly. You can also use a pencil, which is made from the same material.
It is recommended to clean off any excess lubricant you have applied after applying it to stop it from building up and becoming a source of future issues. If your sticky lock doesn't move even after you've tried all of the suggestions above It's time to contact an expert locksmith who will assess the situation and determine what the best option is. If you don't address the problem, it can become major nuisances and can lead to keys snapping inside the lock or even the door handle. A lock that is stuck can be a huge hassle It's best to act sooner rather than later. Regular lubrication can prevent these problems from occurring in the first place. Add this to your annual maintenance schedule can provide you with peace of mind that your locks are operating correctly, and are secure for your home.