GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

FREEZING DOOR LOCK CYLINDERS REPAIR PROCEDURE OUTLINED

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1988 A/B/C/D/E/F/H/J/K/L/N/P/W/Y

Customer comments of door lock cylinders freezing in cold weather can be addressed by using the following procedures:

1. If cylinder is frozen at the time of servicing, apply heat to the cylinder area with a heat gun while being carefull not to damage painted surfaces.

2. Hold the key shutter door open with a paper clip (or similar item) and force air into the cylinder using compressed air and blow gun attachment.

3. While holding the shutter door open, inject a small amount of spray type silicone, P/N 726548, or 5 weight motor oil into the cylinder.

4. Work the key into the cylinder several times and wipe off any excess lubrication residue from the key.

If the door lock cylinder requires replacement for any reason, apply a coating of P/N 726548, lubricant to the inside of the lock case prior to assembling and installing the lock cylinder.

Use Existing Labor Allowance.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.