Why We Are In Love With How To Repair Car Key Lock (And You Should Too!)
Why We Are In Love With How To Repair Car Key Lock (And You Should Too!)
Blog Article
How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
It could be an ordinary dirt buildup or something more serious, sometimes car keys can become stuck inside your car door lock. Luckily, this is typically an easy 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 jammed. It is possible to fix this by applying lubricant to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
Try lubricating the keyhole. You can try using a lubricant spray, which is available at many hardware stores. Spray it into the lock and then push the key into and out several times. This can help unblock the lock's mechanisms. If it doesn't, you might need to contact a professional to fix it.
You can also grease your lock with graphite powder or spray. This will coat the mechanism that locks it and make it easier to insert and remove. This will also help to clean and lubricate the pins of the lock, which could become blocked over time. You might also try to move the mechanism. It could take a while but it is a good way to unjam a car lock. You can see the mechanism more clearly by using a flashlight, or the flash on your phone. If you feel you are making progress you can continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking actions feel effortless.
If the key is still not turning, you may have to disassemble it and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't a task that the average person can do, but it can be a great project when you're a skilled tinkerer. You can also purchase a specialized lubricant that is specifically specially designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be thicker than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective at loosening a stuck or frozen mechanism.
You can also use an altered wire hanger to gain access to the vehicle lock. This method isn't certain to work, but could be an alternative if all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has become damaged, it might be difficult to open the car door or start the engine. This is a serious issue that requires professional repair or replacement. Use your spare key to begin the vehicle until you are able to replace the broken piece. If you don't own a spare, you can make use of a jigsaw to sever the broken piece of the key.
2. Unlock the Door.
It is essential to regularly check the locks on your car's door and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning with a graphite or silicone spray can prevent debris from clogging the lock tumblers and making your key unable to turn. Alternatively, you can try coating the key with powdered graphite to create a temporary oil. This allows the key to move within the lock. It may be a viable option if your vehicle has manual locks instead of an electronic lock.
If the key is able to insert but it does not turn the lock, it is likely to be an issue with the lock's cylinder, an issue that can only be solved by a professional locksmith. It is also essential to avoid using forceful entry techniques since this could cause damage to the lock mechanism and the door.
A long metal rod can also be used to unlock a car. This rod is inserted into the lock. This method works best for older vehicles with traditional mechanical locks, as newer vehicles are designed to be harder to crack.
In certain situations, an air or wooden wedge can be used to create a gap between the window and the door. A screwdriver or metal rod can then be inserted into the gap to make it easier to unlock. This technique is difficult to master and does not guarantee success, since it is dependent on the vehicle's particular model.
In the event of an emergency, you'll need to come up with a plan and take some time. It is essential to keep a tool in your car. Roadside assistance services such as AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers as well as other tools, and can be useful in a pinch. In addition, local security or police departments typically have small jims that can also be used to unlock vehicles. Check your auto insurance policy as many policies provide roadside assistance or locksmith services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
It's possible to fix a simple problem if your car key isn't turning in the ignition. First, ensure that the vehicle is in Park before attempting to remove the key. To prevent theft, the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Sometimes, people shut off the vehicle in a hurry and forget to turn the key cylinder to Park. This could cause the wheel to lock and the key to become stuck in the ignition. If this occurs take the wheel and move it around while turning the key. If it works, the key will soon unlock and you'll be able to start the car.
Another reason why a car key can become stuck in the ignition is because it could have foreign materials inside. In your pocket, lint or on the tape can cause the pins to not line up properly. This can cause the key not to turn when it is placed into the lock. A quick cleaning with a can of compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism by spraying it with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help to remove dirt and grease that can frequently cause a car key to get stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work, you should contact an expert locksmith.
If you have a new mechanical key and the ignition isn't turning it's possible to consider bumping the cylinder of your ignition. This is a relatively easy procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it partway into the ignition, and using the handle of a large screwdriver to "bump" the cylinder that holds the key. This usually releases one or two wax wafers that are not aligned that hinder the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you might need to go to the mechanic or service station and get an entirely new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Locked out of your car could be a nightmare and you might have no option but to contact an expert locksmith or repair service to get the lock repaired. However, there are some how to repair car key lock things you can do prior to calling someone else.
If the lock itself isn't working, it could be a sign that the cylinder in the lock has been damaged and needs replacement. You can replace the cylinder by yourself or employ a locksmith. The cost will vary depending on the model and make as well as whether you require an transponder or traditional keys.
There is also the possibility of having a worn-out key. In this situation it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will assist, but it's highly likely that you'll require having your key replaced altogether. You can create a traditional key at the local hardware store for just $10. A transponder or smart key will require the services a locksmith.
A common issue is that the key itself gets bent, and this can cause the lock to jam when you try to use it. To fix this you can straighten the key as far as you can using needle-nose pliers, but be cautious not to apply excessive pressure or force, since it could damage the mechanism of the lock. You could also try using WD-40 to grease and unblock the lock.
Also, it's important to note that when your key fob doesn't seem to be working, it might simply be time to replace the battery. You can purchase replacement batteries online or in many auto shops, but it's best to check your car's warranty to determine whether this is covered under the conditions.
If your car isn't getting started and you're worried that the ignition switch might be stuck, you should first locate the VIN (vehicle identification number) that is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will allow you to contact the right people for assistance. You can also contact your dealer, or visit the manufacturer's site to learn more about the specific issues that affect your vehicle.