How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
It could be an ordinary buildup of dirt or more serious, at times keys from your car may become stuck inside the door lock of your car. This is a common fix you can do at home.
If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock is become jammed. To fix this it is possible to apply grease to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
You can try lubricating your keyhole. You can buy a lubricant from the majority of hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, and then turn the key several times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If it doesn't, you might need to contact a professional to fix it.
You can also lubricate your lock using graphite powder or graphite spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier for you to insert and take out. This will also help to lubricate the pins inside the lock, which can be clogged by debris as time passes. You can also try wriggling the mechanism. It will likely take a while, but it can often get a car lock unjammed. You can observe the mechanism better using a flashlight, or the light on your phone. If you feel you're making progress keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking movements feel smooth.
If the lock is not turning, you might have to disassemble it and clean the lock mechanism. This is not a job that the average person can do, but it can be a fun project for those who love to tinker. You can also buy a lubricant that is specifically designed for locks. This kind of lubricant is thicker than general-purpose WD-40 and is more effective at loosening a stuck or frozen mechanism.
You could also try using an altered coat hanger made of wire to gain entry to the vehicle's lock. This method is not 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an alternative if other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder is broken, it can be difficult to open the door or even start the car. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacement. If you have a spare key, you can use it to start the car until you can replace the damaged part. If you don't own a spare key, you could make use of a jigsaw to sever the broken part of the key.
2. Lock the door.
It is essential to regularly inspect your car door locks and key mechanisms. Cleaning the lock tumblers using graphite or silicone sprays can keep debris from blocking them and causing keys to not turn. You can also try coating the key in powdered graphite as an interim lubricant. This allows your key to move around within the lock. It could be effective if you own an old-fashioned lock instead of an electronic lock.
If the key can be inserted but not turned, it is likely that there is an issue with the cylinder for the lock. This is a problem which is only fixable by a locksmith. It is also important to avoid using forceful entry techniques, since this could cause damage to the lock mechanism and door.
Another method to open a locked car is using a long metal rod that can be inserted into the lock. This method is best suited to older vehicles with traditional mechanical locks, since modern vehicles are designed to be harder to crack.
In certain situations wood wedges or an air wedge may be used to create a gap between the door and window. A screwdriver or metal rod can then be inserted in the gap to make it easier to unlock. This technique requires some skill and isn't certain to work as it depends on the website specific make of the vehicle.
A lot of these strategies require some improvisation and time, so you should always have a tool in your vehicle that you can access in the event in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance organizations like AAA provide kits that include wire hooks and other tools. These are helpful in an emergency. Additionally local police or security departments usually have small jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to check your insurance policy to see if it include roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the ignition
If your car's key doesn't turn in the ignition It is usually due to a simple issue which can be easily solved. Before you take the key off first, make sure the vehicle is in Park. To avoid theft, the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Sometimes, people shut off the vehicle in a hurry and fail to turn the key cylinder to Park. This can cause the key to become stuck in the ignition and the wheel to lock. If this happens you need to grab the wheel and jiggle it around while turning the key. If it works the key will eventually unlock and you can begin to drive.
Another reason why keys for cars can get stuck in the ignition is that it could have foreign materials in it. Lint in your pocket, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not line up properly. This can also cause the key to not turn when it is put into the lock. This can be fixed with a quick cleaning using compressed air.
You can also grease the lock mechanism using an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help clean the dirt and grease that can often cause a car key to become jammed in an ignition. If the lubricant does not work, you can call an expert locksmith.
If you've got a brand new mechanical key, but the ignition isn't turning it's possible to try bumping the ignition cylinder. This is a simple process that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and inserting it in a small amount into the ignition. Then, using a heavy screwdriver handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the cylinder of the key. This is usually enough to release two or three misaligned wafers in the cylinder that are keeping the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may require a visit to an auto repair or mechanic station and get a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Being locked out of your car can be a real hassle and you may be left with no option but to contact a locksmith or a repair service to have the lock fixed. There are a few things you can do before calling someone else.
If the key doesn't work it could indicate that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and must be replaced. You can replace the cylinder on your own, or have a locksmith take it off for you. The cost will vary depending on your car's make and model as well as whether you require a transponder or a traditional key.
There is also the possibility of having an old key. In this case you might be able to oil the keyhole, but it is likely that your key will require replacing. You can create a traditional key at your local hardware shop for $10. A transponder key or smart key will require the services of a locksmith.
The key can become bent, which can cause the lock to jam when you attempt to use the key. To resolve this issue you can straighten the key as much as you can with needle-nose pliers, but you must be cautious not to apply excessive pressure or force, as this could cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also use a little bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock, and then release it.
Finally, it's worth noting that when your key fob doesn't seem to be working, it might simply be time to replace the battery. It is possible to purchase replacement batteries on the internet or at many auto shops, but it's a good idea to check your vehicle's warranty to determine whether this is covered by the conditions.
If you are unable to start your car and think the ignition switch may be stuck, find the VIN (vehicle ID number), which you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will help you find the right people to get help. You can also reach out to your dealer, or go to the manufacturer's site to learn more about specific issues with your car.