The Ultimate Guide To How To Repair Car Key Lock
The Ultimate Guide To How To Repair Car Key Lock
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Sometimes car keys can become stuck in the door lock of your vehicle. It could be a simple buildup, or something more serious. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can fix at home.
If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole, it is a clear indication that the lock is jammed. It is possible to fix this by applying lubricant to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing you can try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant in most hardware stores. Spray it on the lock and then work the key into and out several times. This could help loosen the mechanisms. If it doesn't work, you might have to call a professional to fix it.
You can also lubricate your lock using graphite powder or spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier for you to insert and take out. This will also lubricate and clean the pins inside the lock which can become clogged with time. You may also try wriggling the mechanism. This will probably take a while but it's a great way to help to unblock a car lock. If you have a flashlight or the light from your phone, you'll be able to see the mechanism more clearly. If you feel like you're making progress, keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking actions feel smooth.
If the key is still not turning, you may have to disassemble it and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't something that's appropriate for everyone, but if you are an enthusiast of tinkering, this could be a fun task. You can also purchase a specialty lubricant specially designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be thicker than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective in loosening a stuck or frozen mechanism.
You can also try an altered coat hanger made of wire to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't guaranteed to work but may be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has become damaged, it might be impossible to open the door of your car or start the engine. This is a serious issue and requires professional repair or replacement. If you have a spare key you should use this to start the car until you can get the broken part replaced. If you don't have a spare key you can use an jigsaw to cut off the broken piece of the key.
2. Unlock the Door
It is crucial to regularly inspect your car door locks and key mechanisms. Cleaning the lock tumblers using graphite or silicone sprays can prevent debris from blocking them, causing keys to not turn. Alternatively, you can try coating the key with graphite that has been powdered to create a temporary lubricant. This allows your key to jiggle inside the lock. It could be effective if you own a manual lock, rather than an electronic lock.
If the key can be inserted, but not turned it is most likely that there is a problem with the cylinder of the lock. This is a problem which is only fixable by a locksmith. It is also essential to avoid making use of forceful entry techniques because this could damage the lock mechanism and the door.
Another way to unlock a locked vehicle is to use a long metal rod that can be put into the lock. This method works best for older vehicles with traditional mechanical locks as newer vehicles are designed to be more difficult to crack.
In certain situations, wood wedges or an air wedge could be used to create space in the gap between the window and the door. A screwdriver or metal rod can be then inserted into the gap to unlock it. This method requires some expertise and cannot be guaranteed to work, as it depends on the specific model of the vehicle.
In case of emergency, you will need to come up with a plan and take some time. Always keep tools in your vehicle. Roadside assistance companies like AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers as well as other tools, and they are useful in a pinch. Security and police departments in the local area also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Be sure to check your insurance policy for autos for any policies that include roadside assistance as well as lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
If your car's key doesn't turn in the ignition It is usually caused by a minor issue which can be easily solved. First, make sure the vehicle is in Park before you attempt to remove the key. To prevent theft the steering wheel locks after the key is removed. Sometimes people forget to place the key cylinder in Park when they turn off their car. This could cause the wheel to become locked and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If this happens you need to grab the wheel and gently jiggle it around while turning the key. If it works, you'll be capable of starting your vehicle as soon as the key is unlocked.
A foreign object could be in the key. The lint in your pocket or tape adhesive or even corrosion from rust can sometimes cause the pins inside the ignition to not line up correctly. This can also cause the key not to turn when it is placed into the lock. This can be fixed by an easy cleaning using compressed air.
You could also try making the lock more lubricated using an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help to remove grease and dirt that can cause keys to become stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant does not work, you should contact an expert locksmith.
If you've purchased a new mechanical key but the ignition isn't more info turning it's possible to consider bumping the cylinder that controls the ignition. This is a relatively easy procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it into the ignition, and using the handle of a powerful screwdriver to "bump" the key cylinder. This will usually free up one or two misaligned wax wafers that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this doesn't help, you might need to visit a mechanic or car service center and purchase an entirely new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Locked out of your vehicle can be a real hassle and you may be left with no option but to contact an expert locksmith or repair service to have the lock fixed. However, there are some things you can do before calling someone else.
If the key doesn't work it could indicate that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and needs to be replaced. You can either replace the cylinder yourself or employ a locksmith. The cost will differ based on the car's make and model and whether you require an transponder or traditional keys.
There is also the possibility of having an old key. In this case, lubricating the keyhole might assist, but it's highly likely that you will need to have your key replaced completely. You can create a traditional key at a local hardware store for just $10. A transponder or smart key will require the services of a locksmith.
A common problem is that the key gets bent, and this could cause the lock to jam when you try to use it. To solve this issue, you can try to straighten the key as much as you can with needle-nose pliers. However, be careful not to apply too much pressure or force, since it 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.
It's also worth noting that if your key fob isn't working, it may be time to replace the battery. You can purchase replacement batteries on the internet or at the majority of auto shops, however it's a good idea to check your vehicle's warranty to determine whether this is covered by the terms.
If your car isn't starting and you're worried that the ignition switch could be stuck, you should first try to find the VIN (vehicle identification number), which is usually located on the driver's dashboard. This will help you contact the right people for assistance. You can also reach out to your dealer, or visit the site of the manufacturer to find out more about specific problems with your car.