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. Luckily, this is typically an easy fix you can do at home.
If you are unable inserting 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 Keyhole
You can try lubricating your keyhole. You can buy a oil lubricant at the majority of hardware stores. Spray it on the lock, and then move the key into and out a few times. This may help to unjam the mechanism. If this doesn't work, you may have to call in an expert.
Another method of lubricating the lock is to apply powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier to insert and remove. It will also clean and lubricate the pins of the lock that can get clogged over time. You may also try wriggling the mechanism. This will probably take a while but it's a great way to unlock a car lock. If you have an external light source or a flashlight from your phone, you will be able to see the mechanism more clearly. If it seems like you're progressing, keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking actions appear smooth.
If the key is not turning, you might require to disassemble the lock and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't a task that anyone can accomplish, but it could be a great project when you're a skilled tinkerer. You can also buy a lubricant specifically designed for locks. This kind of lubricant is thicker than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective in loosening the frozen or stuck mechanism.
You could also use a modified wire hanger in order to gain access to the vehicle lock. This method isn't 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an option in the event that all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has broken, it may be difficult to open the door or even start the car. This is a serious problem and requires a professional repair or replacing. Use the spare key to start the car until you are able to repair the damaged piece. If you don't own a spare key, you could make use of a jigsaw to sever the broken part 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 using a graphite or silicone spray can stop debris from clogging the lock tumblers and causing your key to fail to turn. Alternately, you could try coating the key with graphite that has been powdered to create an interim fluid. This allows the key to move around inside the lock. It could be a viable option if your vehicle has an old-fashioned lock 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 cylinder, an issue that can only be addressed by a professional locksmith. It is also essential to avoid using forceful entry techniques since this could cause damage to the lock mechanism as well as the door.
Another way to unlock a locked vehicle is to use a long metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method works best on older cars that have traditional mechanical locks, since modern cars are designed to be harder to break into.
In some cases, wood wedges or an air wedge may be used to create space in the gap between the door and window. Then using a screwdriver or rod of metal can be placed into the gap to unlock the door. This technique requires some skill and isn't certain to work as it depends on the specific make of the vehicle.
In the event of an emergency, you'll need to think of a solution and spend some time. Always keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance companies such as AAA offer kits that include wire hooks and click here other tools. They can be extremely helpful in an emergency. In addition, local security or police departments often carry small jims that can also be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to verify your auto insurance policy, as many policies will include roadside assistance as well as locksmith services.
3. Unlock the ignition
It's possible to fix a simple problem when your car key isn't turning on in the ignition. Before removing the key, first make sure that the vehicle is in Park. The steering wheel is designed to lock when the key is removed to stop theft. Sometimes, people shut off the car in a hurry and forget to rotate the key cylinder into Park. This can cause the wheel to become locked and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If this happens, grab the wheel and gently jiggle it around while turning the key. If it works, you'll be in a position to start your vehicle as soon as the key unlocks.
A foreign object could be in the key. In your pocket, lint or tape adhesive or even rust corrosion can cause the pins in the ignition to not align properly. This can cause the key not to turn when it is placed into the lock. This can be corrected with a quick cleaning using compressed air.
You can also grease the lock mechanism by spraying it with a silicone-based spray. This will help remove the grease and dirt that often cause a car keys to become jammed in the ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work, you can call a locksmith to help.
If you have a new mechanical key but the ignition isn't turning it's possible to test bumping the cylinder of your ignition. This is a simple process that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and then inserting it partially into the ignition. Then, using a heavy screwdriver handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the cylinder that holds the key. This will usually release two or three wafers that are not aligned inside the cylinder which hinder the ignition from turning. If this does not 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 a locksmith to fix the lock. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock before calling a locksmith.
If the key isn't working, it could mean that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and needs to be replaced. You can either replace the cylinder yourself or employ locksmith. The cost will vary based on the model and make of your car and whether you need a transponder key or a conventional key.
There is also the possibility of having an old key. In this instance it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will aid, but it's more likely that you will need to have your key replaced altogether. If you're using an old-fashioned key, you can have one made at the local hardware store for around $10, however a transponder or smart key may require the services of a locksmith.
A common problem is that the key gets bent, and this can cause the lock stop working when you attempt to use it. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers to fix the issue. Be cautious not to apply excessive pressure or force to cause damage to the lock mechanism. You could also try using WD-40 to lubricate and unjam the lock.
Also, it's important to note that when your key fob doesn't seem to be working, it may be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries on the internet or at many auto shops, but it's a good idea to check your vehicle's warranty to determine if this is covered under the terms.
If you're unable to start your car and you think that the ignition switch might be stuck, try to find the VIN (vehicle ID number), which you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will enable you to contact the right people for assistance. You can also call your dealer or visit the website of the manufacturer to find out more about your car's particular problems.