How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
It could be an ordinary dirt buildup or something more serious, occasionally keys from your car may become stuck inside the door lock of your car. Luckily, this is an easy fix that you can fix at home.
If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole, it is a clear sign that the lock is stuck. You can fix this by applying the keyhole with lubricant.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
Try lubricating the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant in the majority of hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray into the lock, and then turn the key several times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If it doesn't, you might have to call an expert to fix it.
Another method of lubricating the lock is to apply powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This will lubricate the locking mechanism and make it easier to insert and take out. This will also help to lubricate the pins inside the lock, which may be clogged by debris as time passes. You can also try to wiggle the mechanism. This will probably take a while, but it can often unlock a car lock. You can see the mechanism more clearly by using a flashlight, or the flash on your phone. If you feel that you're progressing, continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking movements appear effortless.
If the key is still not turning, you may have to disassemble it and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't an easy task for a common person however if you're an avid tinkerer, this could be a fun task. You can also purchase a lubricant specifically designed for locks. This kind of lubricant could be more effective than WD-40 for general use in the release of the mechanism that is stuck or frozen.
You could also make use of an altered wire hanger to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an option if all the other methods fail.
If the lock cylinder is broken, it may be difficult to open the car door or start the engine. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacement. If you have a spare key you should use this to start the car until you get the broken part replaced. If you don't have a spare key, you could use a jigsaw to cut 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 with silicone or graphite sprays will prevent debris from blocking them, causing keys to not turn. You could also try coating the key with graphite powder to act to act as temporary lubricant. This allows your key to move around inside the lock. It may be effective if you own an old-fashioned lock instead of an electronic lock.
If the key cannot be inserted, but not turned it is most likely that there is a problem with the cylinder of the lock. This is a situation that can only by fixed by locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry methods because they could cause damage to the lock and door.
A long rod of metal can also be used to unlock a car. This rod is put into the lock. This method is suitable for older cars that have mechanical locks. Newer vehicles are more difficult to break into.
In certain situations you could use a wedge of wood or an air wedge to create a space between the window and the door. Then, a screwdriver or a metal rod can be placed into the gap to unlock the door. This technique isn't easy to master, and it doesn't guarantee success, since it depends on your car's make and model.
In an emergency, you will need to think of a solution and spend some time. It is essential to keep a tool in your car. Roadside assistance services like AAA provide kits that include wire hangers as well as other tools, and they can be useful in the event of a need. Local police and security departments also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to verify your auto insurance policy, as many policies will provide roadside assistance and locksmith services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
It is possible to fix a basic problem when your car key isn't turning in the ignition. Before you take the key off first, make sure the vehicle is in Park. To prevent theft, the steering wheel locks after the key is removed. Sometimes, people turn off the vehicle in a hurry, but forget to turn the key cylinder to Park. This can cause the wheel to lock and the key to become stuck in the ignition. If this happens take the wheel and jiggle it around while turning the key. If it works, you will be in a position to start your car as soon as the key is released.
Another reason why a car key can become stuck in the ignition is that it may have foreign material inside. In your pocket, lint, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not line up correctly. This will also cause the key to not turn when inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean with compressed air will usually resolve this.
You can also try making the lock more lubricated using a silicone-based spray. This will help to remove grease and dirt that often cause a car keys to get stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you can contact a locksmith for assistance.
If your ignition isn't turning even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you may be able to boost the ignition cylinder. 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 of the key. This is usually enough to free one or two wax wafers that are misaligned that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work you, you may need to visit a mechanic or car service station and get an ignition cylinder that is new.
4. Replace the Key
Locked out of your car could be a nightmare and you might have no alternative but to call a locksmith or repair service to have the lock fixed. However, there are some things you can do before calling someone else.
If the key itself isn't working properly, this could indicate that the lock cylinder has been damaged and requires replacing. You can replace the cylinder yourself, or ask a locksmith to take it off for you. The cost will vary based on the make and model of your vehicle and whether you require a transponder key or a conventional key.
You could also have an old key. In this instance it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will assist, but it's highly likely that you will require having your key replaced altogether. You can make a traditional key at the local hardware store for $10. A transponder key or smart keys will require the services of a locksmith.
The key can become bent, which can cause the lock to jam if you try to use the key. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers to fix the issue. Be careful not to use excessive pressure or force to cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also use a small amount of WD-40 to lubricate the lock and unjam it.
It's important to note that when your keyfob doesn't work it could be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase replacement batteries online or at many auto shops, but it's a good idea to check your vehicle's warranty to see whether this is covered by the conditions.
If you can't start your car and think that the ignition switch might be stuck, find the VIN number (vehicle ID number) located on the dashboard of the driver. This will help in getting in touch with the appropriate individuals to help solve your issue. please click the next website page can also contact your dealer, or visit the site of the manufacturer to find out more about specific problems with your vehicle.