Central Locking Not Working? How to Fix It When It Stops Working
Currently, most cars produced are equipped with a central locking system. These electrical systems allow the driver to remotely lock and unlock the doors (and boot) of many modern cars. Handy, right? But what happens when it goes wrong? This article will explain everything you need to know about fixing your car's central locking system.
Firstly, how does a central locking system work?
In most cars, the central locking system can be controlled from inside the car, usually via a button insider the driver's door, or with a key fob. Over time, two major types of central locking have emerged in terms of functionality, namely: infrared and radio waves. Central locking by radio waves are most often used today. The key, as a transmitter, sends a coded signal to the receivers in your car via radio waves. This coded signal is compared to its own code to ensure a match, which will unlock or lock the vehicles central locking system.
The mechanical explanation to describe your car's central locking system function goes like this:
Your remote button sends a signal to the door lock relay.
The lock relay activates the lock actuator inside the door.
The lock opens and grants access to the vehicle.
What to do when your car’s central locking is not working
Central locking is very handy... until it stops working. If your central locking is not working, you may still be able to get in. Sometimes electronic car key fobs have a traditional key inside, so car door locks can still be used manually (by a traditional key in a lock method). Unfortunately nowadays it's becoming more common for electronic key fobs not to include a traditional key. In that case you'll need to get a mechanic or car key specialist to come out and help you. It may be worth getting a mechanic to come out and perform a diagnostic test on your car to determine why your central locking is not working.
Regular use and wear and tear can lead to a central locking replacement
Your car's central locking system will be used every time you use your car. With such frequent operation, including small parts and delicate operations, the switches and electrical components will eventually wear out, fail and require replacing.
Reasons why your car doors aren't locking properly
Your mechanic won't ever just jump in and replace the central locking units straight away. If your car's central locking system is failing, there could be a number of issues that must be investigated.
You could have a blown central locking fuse
If one door works as it's meant to, but another doesn't, it could be something as simple as a blown fuse. Fuses cost next to nothing to replace, so it's always worth checking your fuse box for any blown fuses before you jump the gun and replace anything more expensive.
Dead key fob battery (or weak key fob battery)
Before you arrange for a mechanic or garage to check your key fob or your central locking system, the first step should be to check your remote key fob battery. It's easy to overlook the most basic things, as we're prone to thinking the worst from the outset.
So make sure it's not the battery before you book an appointment to have your key fob tested.
Your car key fob is faulty
If none of the door locks operate, then the problem could be with your key fob.These time and effort saving gadgets can be hooked up to a computer to troubleshoot and test. If it's your fob failing to send a signal, it's going to need replacing.
Your door lock solenoid/actuator could have failed
If you're experiencing problems with one door/lock in your car's central locking system, the solenoid in that particular door lock actuator might have failed. Central locking systems can be very complex, as they consist of many components. Door lock actuators are small electric motors that move your door locking mechanism to lock or unlock. A faulty actuator, in that case, would fail to unlock your car. In most instances it would be best to simply get an actuator replacement as it's not worth trying to fix. We recommend having your car inspected by a qualified mechanic by booking a vehicle diagnostic to pinpoint the issue and get it sorted.
Broken or damaged electrical wires
A simple way to detect broken wires is to hold up the key fob and open and close the door repeatedly. A broken wire may be jolted into making a connection. If this is the case, you'll get intermittent power to the locks when using the fob. This is especially common for the driver's door, as it is usually used most frequently, making it vulnerable to wiring faults from damaged wiring.
Central locking repair costs
The cost of central locking repair or to replace an entire central locking system assembly unit depends on the make and model of your car. However...
Central locking repair costs can be anywhere between £100–£300 for standard model vehicles with standard central locking systems. Fixter can save you around 15% on many dealer and independent garage prices when you choose us to take care of your problem.
Your central locking repair mechanic will:
Test your door lock operation
Test all the fuses in each circuit with in your car's central locking
Test the electrical relay
Decide on the best solution to repair any faulty door lock switches
Replace any malfunctioning door locking units
Test the system on completion to assure 100% operation
Still not sure what's wrong?
If you've followed all the steps in this article and still aren't sure what's wrong with your central locking system, it's time for a car diagnostic test. Luckily, Fixter can help connect you to the best local garages, with upfront pricing, vetted garages and a 12-month warranty on all parts and labour. Take Fixter's Car Diagnostic quiz now to get a quote in only 3 clicks.
About Fixter
Fixter is revolutionising the car maintenance industry, one repair at a time. Fixter was founded to make car maintenance as easy as booking a taxi. Digital, transparent and stress-free, with world-class customer service. Since launching in Manchester in 2017, Fixter has expanded to more than 100 cities across the UK and provided thousands of car owners with honest, convenient and affordable car repair services.
