Car Lockout Kits and Door Lock Actuators

What a lockout kit contains and how to use it without damage

A lockout kit typically combines a wedge or air wedge to open a small gap at the door frame with a long-reach tool that presses the unlock button or pulls the handle. Look for protective coated tips and a soft wedge that will not mar paint. Work slowly, keep tools away from side airbags and wiring inside the door, and use a kit only on a vehicle you own or have permission to open.

Actuators, wiring and key blanks that need cutting

A power door lock actuator is a small motor that moves the lock lever. A 2-wire, 12 V type reverses polarity to lock or unlock and is normally driven through a relay or the vehicle's lock module, so check the wiring diagram first. Its shape and linkage often suit one door design, so match the vehicle. Key blanks are uncut metal that must be cut to your code, and chip keys also need programming.

Questions about Car Lockout Kits and Door Lock Actuators

Will a lockout kit damage my car?

Used carefully it should not, but force can bend door frames, scratch paint, tear weatherstripping or snag wiring inside the door. Open only a small gap with a wedge, protect the paint, and stop if you meet resistance.

How does a 2-wire door lock actuator work?

Two wires carry 12 V in either polarity: one polarity drives the actuator to lock, the reverse drives it to unlock. A relay or the vehicle's lock module usually does the switching, so follow the wiring diagram for your vehicle and fuse the circuit.

Can a plain key blank start my car?

A blank is uncut metal, so it must be cut to your key code or copied from an existing key. Many vehicles also have a transponder chip that has to be programmed before the engine will start. Check whether your key has a chip and whether the blank includes one.