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The lock cylinder refers to the part where the key is inserted to unlock or lock the door. Since it plays a key role in vehicle safety, the lock cylinder needs to be kept in good condition. By reading this article, you can learn about its components, how it works, and how to repair or replace it.
What is The Car Door Lock Cylinder?
The door lock cylinder, or door lock barrel, is a cylindrical assembly containing a pin that interacts with the car key. If your car is an older model, then this part is most likely the only means of locking the door. If you have a newer model, your car will also be equipped with an electronic lock system and keyless entry system. In this case, the lock cylinder is still important as an emergency backup system because you cannot predict when you will need it.
Car Door Lock Cylinder Components
Despite the small size of the door lock cylinder, it contains multiple components. The main car door lock cylinder components and their functions are as follows:
Key Slot: The key slot is the area at the top of the lock cylinder where the car key is inserted. There is usually a cover protection to prevent dust and moisture from entering and being damaged.
Lock Cylinder Housing: External part that holds all other components in place. It is usually made of metal and designed to be strong and durable.
The Plug: This is a cylinder inside the lock barrel that houses most of the components of the car door lock, but more specifically the dowel or gasket.
Tumblers/Pins: These are small brass pieces installed in the metal core of the lock cylinder and are one of the most important components of the lock cylinder. When they are in the right position, they line up with the cut of the key, allowing you to turn the lock cylinder and open or lock the door.
Spring: The spring ensures that the spacers reset after each use so that they are ready to interact with the key again. There are small springs for the gasket and a larger one for the lock cylinder itself.
The Working Principle of the Door Lock Cylinder
The lock cylinder allows you to use a physical key on the door. When you insert the key into the key slot of the lock cylinder, the internal dowel aligns, allowing you to turn the lock. This arrangement unlocks or locks the door, depending on how you turn the key. Usually, turning the key clockwise will lock the door and counterclockwise will unlock it. If any of these dowels are not aligned or stuck, you will not be able to turn the key and enter the vehicle. Therefore, it is very important to ensure that all pins in the door key lock cylinder are in good condition and not worn or stuck.
Where's the Door Lock Mechanism?
The door lock cylinder is located at the bottom of the window, near the door handle and latch. Here, it connects to the handle and latch mechanism, making it easier for you to unlock the door when you insert and turn the key. In some vehicles, the key slot of the door lock cylinder may be visible, while in others it is hidden behind a plastic cover. Usually, it's the round metal part next to the door handle. Usually, there is a lock cylinder on the driver's side and the passenger's side, not only for safety reasons, but also to prevent the doors on both sides from getting stuck. However, in some cars, the lock cylinder is only installed on one side door. This is common in modern cars that use electronic locks and the lock cylinder is used only occasionally, such as when the remote key battery runs out or the keyless system malfunctions.
Car Door Lock Cylinder Problem
The lock cylinder contains moving parts. As expected, these parts eventually wear out or get stuck due to dust and corrosion. Car door lock cylinder components can also break and fail, especially after a burglary attempt. The following are signs of lock cylinder failure:
(1) Manual car door lock does not work The manual lock does not work, meaning you cannot open or lock the car door with your key. It will usually reject the key, or the key will not turn the lock cylinder. This is usually due to wear on the gaskets, springs or other components in the lock cylinder that need to be replaced. It may also be a worn key, so you can try a spare key first.
(2) The door lock cylinder is stuck Even if you turn the key, the door lock cylinder will not turn (or only move a small part). This is usually due to the long-term accumulation of dust and corrosion, preventing the parts from moving freely within the lock cylinder. The key itself may even get stuck or break when forced to open the lock.
(3) Car door lock cylinder repair A faulty lock cylinder can leave you stranded, especially if the door cannot be opened or closed. In some cases, you can repair it by lubricating a stuck mechanism or resetting the lock cylinder. The following is detailed information about the repair methods of these car door lock cylinders.
Car Door Lock Cylinder Replacement
In most cases, you will not be able to repair the lock cylinder and will need to replace it completely with a new unit that matches the make and model of your car. Door lock cylinder replacement is also the most reliable way to restore the safety of the car, because the new device comes with a brand new pin or gasket.
(1) Remove the Door Panel
The lock cylinder assembly is usually hidden behind the door panel, so you need to remove it first. You may also need to remove several components, such as window rockers, some subpanels/covers, or remove moisture barriers. This depends on your vehicle type. In some cars, you can easily remove the lock cylinder by removing the bolts on the edge of the door frame. This should be the easiest replacement process for the door lock cylinder.
(2) Remove the Door Lock Cylinder
After you've exposed the access point of the lock cylinder assembly, it's time to disconnect it. Again, the removal steps vary from car to car, so it is important to know how to remove the door lock cylinder of a specific type of car. Usually, the lock cylinder is secured by a C-clamp. Remove it using a fine-nose pliers or picking tool, then disconnect the lock bar from the door handle using a flat-head screwdriver. You may also need to use a socket wrench to remove fasteners or fasteners and release door handles and lock cylinders. In most cases, a hole for the tool to insert will be provided.
(3) Install the New Car Door Lock Cylinder
After removing the old lock cylinder, you can install a new lock cylinder. Make sure it matches your vehicle make and model. To install a new lock cylinder, simply reverse the steps above. Make sure all parts are secured in the correct position and that all connections are tight. Finally, test the lock.
Car Lock Replacement Cost
The cost of replacing the door lock cylinder will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the replacement location. Typically, you may have to pay a service fee of $50 to $100 or more. With the cost of a new lock cylinder, this can be anywhere from $30 to $100, depending on the type you choose. We can see that the total amount may approach or exceed $100. When replacing the door lock cylinder assembly, make sure to purchase a model that is compatible with your vehicle model and brand. This can usually be purchased at an auto parts store or online.
How to Lubricate the Door Lock Cylinder
This is one of the easiest ways to repair the door lock cylinder, but only if the problem is a stuck mechanism. You only need brake cleaner to remove dust/dirt from the lock cylinder parts and lubricants (such as white grease) to prevent water and corrosion.
First, spray brake cleaner into the lock cylinder. This will loosen rust and dirt. Wait five minutes, then insert the key. Push it in and out, then use it to turn the lock cylinder. Wait another 5 to 10 minutes and apply the brake cleaner again. This will wash away any remaining dirt and grime. Then, apply a small portion of white grease around the lock cylinder, usually around the keyhole. This also permeates other parts of the mechanism. You can also use commercial car door lock lubricants. Make sure you are using the best type. The best lubricants for the door lock cylinder will effectively lubricate the mechanism, making it operate more smoothly. Finally, insert the key and turn it several times so that the lubricant spreads to all sprayed areas.
How to Reset the Car Door Lock Cylinder
Now let's see how to fix it by resetting the door lock cylinder. Resetting the door lock pin is the process of replacing the gasket/pin to match the new key. This is usually done when the mechanism stops working, but also when you lose your original keys or want to change the security of your car.
To reconfigure the door lock cylinder, you need to disassemble the assembly. You'll also need a lock resetting kit that includes the newly set parts. After assembling the new part, the key can be inserted into the door lock cylinder for testing. If all goes well, your door will now be securely locked with a new key. If it doesn't go well, you'll need to disassemble the component again and replace any parts that may not have been installed correctly.
Conclusion
The door lock cylinder helps maintain the safety of the vehicle. If it shows any signs of damage, make sure it is repaired or replaced immediately; You don't know when it will fail and leave you stranded. The good news is that you can even replace it yourself. However, if you're not sure if you can replace the part yourself, it's best to let a mechanic or locksmith handle it.
