A jammed vehicle door is a pretty annoying phenomenon. It can happen anywhere. Of course, it is not only one of the reasons that affect your freedom to get out and in, but also a reason enough to explain the majority of urban traffic disorders. Find in this article all the techniques for unlocking your door.
The sources of the blockage of a car door
There are many reasons for the failure of a car door lock. On the one hand, there can be external factors such as accidents, incidents due to false manipulations, or a key in its cylinder. On the other hand, there are intrinsic sources such as corrosion of metals, aging of parts, manufacturing defects, etc. However, in any case, you may have to solve the problem yourself, depending on the circumstances. The important thing is that you are able to identify the faulty circuit and then repair it.
Repairing a car door lock
In the case of repairing a car door lock that is stuck in the closed position, the solutions will almost always involve repairing the broken connections. If you are using glue, it is critical that you have the right binder for the materials you are gluing. For example, plastic and metal will need a different glue, and a different glue will be needed to bond plastic to metal.
You can also use all sorts of fabrication methods such as fabric tourniquets, screws, etc. All of this is very complicated if you don’t understand lock assembly, let alone have the training to repair them. It’s a good idea to contact a locksmith for help with the issue of repairing a door lock stuck in the locked position.
The quick fix kit
Whether you are inside or outside the car at the time of the breakdown, the right tools are the ideal alternative to help you fix the problem. You’ll need a screwdriver and a pair of punching pliers for any puncture work. You should also have one or more torque wrenches, a lubricant for greasing the lock mechanism, and a data sheet showing you your door’s overall wiring diagram.
Door repair: three steps to follow
Diagnosis
Diagnose the wiring of your car lock. Check the operation of the electrical system from the fuses to the solenoid located in the door area. To do this, take a look at the status of the switches that are responsible for locking your car.
If you hear your door slam after activating the lock at the switch and there is no reaction in the locking rod, it means that the lock is malfunctioning. So, move on to the next step immediately or contact a professional car door repair or general mechanic.
Unjamming the lock
It is possible that your door’s malfunction is the result of contact wear due to corrosion of the metals forming the circuit. In this case, a degripping with a special lock degripping spray is necessary. The objective is to remove the iron hydroxide (rust) so that a lock lubricant can be applied. Use non-oil-based products to prevent the build-up of grease.
Removing the door panel
This third option should be considered when the problem persists, even after extensive de-greasing. It involves freeing the door panel for inspection of all components of the latch system. However, before you take your screwdriver, make sure the door is de-energized.
Remember the exact location of each screw to close the panel. If the system is secured by thick shielding (a common occurrence with electrical systems), then opt to hook the metal locking rod through the perimeter of the rubber seal on the door glass.
When the locking pin is secured by the hook, pull it out carefully until the door is fully locked. Use a very thin, uncut metal twig to reach the locking rod better. Be careful with the wires when reassembling the thin rod. If you need special technical assistance, you can call an automotive service company.
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