15 Reasons You Shouldn't Overlook How To Repair Car Key Lock
15 Reasons You Shouldn't Overlook How To Repair Car Key Lock
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Whether it is a simple dirt buildup or something more serious, sometimes car keys can become stuck inside the door lock of your car. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that you can do at home.
If you can't insert your key into the keyhole, this is a clear sign that the lock is blocked. You can fix it by applying the keyhole with lubricant.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
The first thing to try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant in most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, and then turn the key a few times. This can help release the mechanism. If it's not working then you might need to contact a professional.
Another way to lubricate the lock is to apply powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier for you to insert and take out. It will also lubricate the pins in the lock, which may become clogged with debris over time. Try wiggles on the mechanism. This will probably take a while but it's a great way to get a car lock unjammed. If you're using a flashlight or the light from your phone, you will be able to observe the mechanism better. If you feel that you are making progress you can continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking movements are effortless.
If the key still does not turn, you may need to take it apart and clean the locking mechanism. This isn't something that anyone can do, but it can be a fun task if you're a tinkerer. You can also buy a specialty lubricant specially designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be heavier than general-purpose WD-40 and is more effective in loosening the frozen or stuck mechanism.
You can also try a modified wire coat hanger to gain access to the vehicle's lock. This method is not guaranteed to work but may be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has broken, it may be difficult to open the door or start the vehicle. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacing. If you have a spare key, you can use it to start the car until you can repair the damaged part. If you don't have a spare, you can use a jigsaw to cut the broken piece of the key.
2. Lock the door.
It is essential to regularly check your car's door locks and key mechanism. Regular cleaning using a graphite or silicone spray can prevent debris from blocking the lock tumblers and making your key unable to turn. Alternately, you could try coating the key with graphite powdered to create an indefinite oil. This allows the key to move inside the lock and may be a viable option if your vehicle has manual locks instead of an electronic lock.
If the key can be inserted, but it is not turning it is likely there is an issue with the cylinder for the lock. This is a problem which can only by fixed by locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry methods because they could damage the lock and the door.
A long metal rod can also be used to unlock the car. This rod is put into the lock. This method is ideal for older cars with mechanical locks. Newer vehicles are more difficult to break into.
In some cases you can employ a wooden wedge or an air wedge to create space between the door and the window. Then, a screwdriver or a rod of metal can be inserted into the gap to unlock the door. This method requires some experience and cannot be certain to work as it is dependent on the particular model of the vehicle.
In case of emergency, you'll need to improvise and spend some time. You should always keep a tool in your car. Roadside assistance companies such as AAA offer kits that include a wire hook and other tools. These can be very helpful in an emergency. Security and police departments in the local area also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Review your auto insurance policy as many policies cover roadside assistance or lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
If your car's key doesn't engage in the ignition, this is often caused by a minor issue which can be easily solved. First, ensure that the car is in Park before trying to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to protect against theft. Sometimes, people turn off the car in a hurry, but forget get more info to turn the key cylinder to Park. This could result in the key becoming stuck in the ignition, causing the wheel to lock. If this happens, grab the wheel and gently jiggle it around while turning the key. If it works, you will be in a position to start your vehicle when the key unlocks.
A foreign object may be hidden inside the key. Lint in your pocket or tape, or corrosion could cause the pins to not line up properly. This can cause the key to not turn when inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean using compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism by spraying it with a silicone-based spray. This will help get rid of the dirt and grease which can cause a key to become stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant does not work, you should contact an expert locksmith.
If your ignition doesn't turn even with a brand new mechanical ignition key, you might need to increase the speed of the ignition cylinder. This is a straightforward procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and putting it partially into the ignition. Then using a screwdriver with a large handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the key cylinder. This is usually enough to free one or two wax wafers that are misaligned that block the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may need to visit a mechanic or car servicing station and purchase a new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
You may not have any choice but to contact an expert locksmith to repair the lock. There are a few things that you can do to fix the lock before calling someone.
If the key isn't working it could be an indication that the lock cylinder is damaged and needs to be replaced. You can replace the cylinder yourself, or request a locksmith to do it for you. The cost will differ based on the make and model and whether you require a transponder or a traditional key.
You could also have a worn-out key. In this instance it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will assist, but it's highly likely that you will need to have your key replaced completely. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can get one made at the local hardware store for $10, however the transponder or smart keys may require the services of locksmith.
The key could be bent, which can cause the lock to jam when you attempt to use the key. To solve this issue try to straighten the key as far as possible with needle-nose pliers, but you must be careful not to apply excessive pressure or force, since this could damage the lock mechanism. You can also apply a little bit of WD-40 to grease the lock and then unjam it.
It's also worth noting that when your key fob doesn't seem to be functioning, it could be time to replace the battery. You can buy batteries online or at many auto shops. But, it's essential to review your vehicle's warranty terms to see if they include this.
If you are unable to start your car and think the ignition switch may be stuck, try to find the VIN (vehicle ID number) located on the dashboard of the driver. This can be helpful in getting in touch with the appropriate people to help solve your problem. If you prefer, you can reach out to your dealer or go to the website of the manufacturer to learn more about your car's specific problems.