The Most Common Types of Car Locks (And Why They Matter)

Think about the last time you locked your car. Maybe you pressed the button on your key fob, maybe your car door lock clicked automatically as you started driving, or maybe you pushed down the little knob inside. We all do it without thinking, but these small actions are a huge part of keeping your vehicle safe.

At Superblocksmith of Coarsegold, we’ve worked with just about every kind of vehicle lock you can imagine. From old-school manual knobs to modern smart locks, each one has its strengths and its weak spots. And when something goes wrong, an experienced automotive locksmith service can save you a lot of stress (and money compared to a dealership).

Let’s dive into the different types of car locks, how they work, and the problems we see most often.

Why Car Locks Are More Important Than You Think

Car theft is still a big deal. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, nearly 500,000 vehicles were reported stolen in the U.S. during just the first half of 2023. That’s about one every half a minute.

Sure, modern alarms and tracking systems are great, but your car locking system is the very first line of defense. Whether it’s a simple inside car door lock or a high-tech smart fob, it keeps thieves and strangers out while keeping you and your family safe.

The Most Common Types of Car Door Locks

Here’s a look at the locks you’re most likely to find in vehicles today:

1. Manual Vehicle Door Locks

These are the classics, the kind where you pull up a knob to unlock or push it down to lock car doors.

• Simple and reliable since they’re mechanical.

• Easier for thieves to pick compared to newer systems.
  

While they’re rare on new cars, we still see them on older models.

2. Central Locking Car Systems

Instead of locking each door individually, you hit one switch and all car door locks engage together.

• Much more convenient than manual locks.

• If the system malfunctions, all doors may stay unlocked.
  

This feature became standard in the ’80s and is still around today, often paired with remotes.

3. Power Lock Car Systems

This is what most people drive with today. Each car door lock mechanism is controlled by an electrical actuator.

• Works well with remotes and alarm systems.

• Can stop working if wiring or fuses fail.
  

When these give out, it’s usually time to call an automotive locksmith service to troubleshoot.

4. Automatic Car Door Locks

These lock on their own once your car reaches a certain speed.

• Great for safety, especially with kids in the car.

• Annoying if you leave your keys inside and the doors click shut.
  

We get more emergency lockout calls from this feature than you might expect.

5. Remote Keyless Entry

Instead of turning a key, you press a button on a fob. Many include a panic button for emergencies.

• Quick and convenient.

• Dead batteries are the number one issue.
  

Replacing or reprogramming these fobs is one of our most common service calls at Superblocksmith.

6. Smart Locks & Keyless Ignition

Walk up to your car with your fob in your pocket, and the doors unlock automatically. Some cars even use apps instead of keys.

• High-tech and secure.

• Repairs can be pricey, and they’re not immune to hacking.
  

If a smart system fails, it usually takes a locksmith with the right tools to reset or replace it.

7. Child Safety Locks

These are on the back doors, stopping kids from opening them from the inside.

• Simple and effective.

• Can cause confusion if you forget they’re switched on.
  

8. Trunk and Glove Box Locks

Not as flashy, but these automotive locks protect valuables when you leave things inside.

• Some are tied into the central system.

• Others have separate keys or latches.
  

Common Lock Problems Drivers Face

Even the best car locking system runs into issues. Some of the most common ones we see include:

• A broken or jammed locking mechanism for a car door.

• Keys stuck or broken in the car lock.

• Power lock car systems that stop responding.

• Remote fobs that need new batteries or reprogramming.
  

When these problems happen, it’s tempting to try DIY fixes, but one wrong move can damage the door or electronics. That’s where a professional automotive locksmith service makes a difference we fix the problem without making it worse.

Locksmith vs. Dealership: Who Should You Call?

A lot of people think the dealership is the only option for lock and key problems, but that’s not true.

• Dealerships are often 30–50% more expensive than locksmiths.

• They may require towing your car in if the locks won’t work.

• Locksmiths like Superblocksmith of Coarsegold come to you and handle the job on-site.
  

From simple vehicle door lock repairs to advanced automotive security locks, we’ve got the tools and training to get you back on the road quickly.

Final Thoughts

Car locks might not be the most glamorous part of your vehicle, but they’re one of the most important. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn inside car door lock, a fob that quit working, or a failed car door locking system, knowing your options helps.

And if you’re ever stuck? Superblocksmith of Coarsegold is just a call away. Our automotive locksmith service covers everything from emergency lockouts to smart key programming. Because at the end of the day, the safety of your car (and your peace of mind) comes down to something as simple as a lock.