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What to do When Your Power Locks Stop Working

What to do When Your Power Locks Stop Working
 
While it may appear to be no more than an inconvenience, driving around with failed power locks is a serious security issue that should be dealt with immediately. Fortunately, since the power lock system isn’t overly complex, diagnosing the problem can sometimes be quite easy.
 
Here are a few things you can try if your power door locks stop working:
 
REPLACE YOUR KEY FOB
 
Before you rush to put your mechanic hat on, you should check to see if your key fob is working properly.  It may seem obvious, but many people forget that their key fob is run by a battery that only lasts for about one to three years. Even if you’ve replaced your battery recently, it won’t hurt to swap your old one for a fresh one.
 
If the problem persists with a new battery, take your key fob into a dealership to make sure it’s sending a proper signal.
 
TRY OTHER DOORS

 
Just because the driver’s side door isn’t opening, doesn’t necessarily mean that all of the other locks won’t work. Testing all of your vehicle’s doors can help to narrow down the problem.
 
If only one door isn’t working, there’s likely a problem with a door switch or sensor. If this is the case, you’ll need to have a mechanic take a look at your car.  If all of your doors don’t open, you could have a blown fuse. Consult your owner’s manual or take your car in if you don’t feel comfortable fixing the problem on your own.
 
FIDDLE WITH THE INDIVIDUAL LOCK MECHANISM
 
With your key on, manually move your door lock either up and down or backwards and forwards (depending on what type of vehicle you have), while simultaneously using the auto lock.  If the lock tries to move, there could be a problem with the solenoid, or your lock mechanism could just be frozen.
 
HAVE A MECHANIC LOOK AT IT
 
Unless you feel comfortable fixing your car on your own, it’s likely in your best interest to have your mechanic take a look at it. Not only will they be more efficient in diagnosing the problem, but they can also make sure it stays fixed for the long haul.