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
Whether it is the result of a simple buildup of dirt or more serious, occasionally car keys can become stuck inside the door lock of your car. Luckily, this is an easy fix you can fix at home.
If you cannot insert your key in the keyhole of the lock, it is likely that the lock is jammed. To get it fixed, you can apply grease to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
The first thing you can try is to grease the keyhole. You can purchase lubricant in the majority of hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, and then turn the key a few times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If this doesn't work then you might need to get a professional.
Another method of lubricating the lock is to use powdered graphite or a graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to insert and remove. This will also lubricate and clean the pins of the lock which can become clogged with time. You can also try wiggling the mechanism. It may take some time however, it is a good way to unlock a car lock. If you're armed with an external light source or a flashlight from your phone, you'll be able to observe the mechanism better. If it appears that you're making progress, continue moving the lever until the locking and unlocking actions seem effortless.
If the key is not turning, you might require to disassemble the lock and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't an easy task for everyone however if you're a tinkerer, this can be a fun project. You can also purchase an exclusive lubricant specifically that is specifically designed for locks. This kind of lubricant is heavier than general-purpose WD-40 and is more effective at loosening a stuck or frozen mechanism.
You can also try a modified coat hanger to gain access into the lock of your vehicle. This method is not 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has broken, it can be difficult to open the door or even start the car. This is a much more serious issue that requires a professional repair or replacement. Make use of your spare key to start the vehicle until you can repair the damaged piece. If you don't own a spare, you can make use of a jigsaw for cutting the damaged part of the key.
2. Unlock the door
It is important to periodically inspect your car door locks 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 graphite that has been powdered to create a temporary lubricant. This will allow the key to move inside the lock. It could work if you have a manual lock instead of an electronic lock.
If the key is able to be inserted but it isn't turning the lock, it is likely to be an issue with the lock's cylinder, which is an issue that can only be addressed by an experienced locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry methods because they could cause damage to the lock as well as the door.
Another way to unlock the car that is locked is to use a long, metal rod that can be inserted into the lock. This method works best on older cars that have traditional mechanical locks as newer vehicles are designed to be more difficult to break into.
In some cases you can employ a wooden wedge or an air wedge to create space between the window and the door. A screwdriver or metal rod can then be inserted into the gap to open it. This technique is difficult to master and does not guarantee success, since it is dependent on the vehicle's specific make.
In the event of an emergency, you'll have to improvise and spend some time. It is essential to keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance companies like AAA provide kits with a wire hanger and other tools that can be useful in the event of a need. Security and police departments in the local area also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to verify your insurance policy for autos and see if it will provide roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
If your car key won't turn in the ignition This is often due to a simple problem that is easily fixed. Before you remove the key first, ensure that the vehicle is in Park. The steering wheel is designed to lock when the key is removed to protect against theft. Many people fail to put 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, grab hold of the wheel and move it back and forth as you turn the key. If it works, you'll be in a position to start your vehicle when the key is unlocked.
A foreign object could be hidden inside the key. The lint in your pocket, adhesive from tape, or even rust corrosion can sometimes cause the pins inside the ignition to not line up properly. This can cause the key not to turn when it is put into the lock. A quick cleaning with a can of compressed air will usually resolve this.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism using a silicone-based spray. This will help clean the grease and dirt that frequently cause a car key to become jammed in an ignition. If the lubricant does not work it is possible to call a locksmith in your area to help.
If your ignition won't turn even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you may need to increase the speed of the ignition cylinder. This is a relatively easy procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it partway into the ignition, and then using the handle of a heavy screwdriver to "bump" the cylinder that holds the key. This will usually free up one or two wax wafers that are misaligned that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work then you may have to visit a mechanic or car service center and purchase an entirely new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Getting locked out of your vehicle can be a nightmare and you may be left with no choice but to call a locksmith or repair service to have the lock repaired. There more info are some things you can do prior to calling someone else.
If the key does not work, it could mean that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and requires to be replaced. You can replace the cylinder yourself or have a locksmith replace it for you. The cost will depend on the car's make and model as well as whether you require a transponder or a traditional key.
You could also have a worn-out key. In this case, you may be able to oil the keyhole, but it's likely that your key will require replacing. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can get one made at the local hardware store for $10, however smart keys or transponders might require the assistance of locksmith.
The key can become bent and cause the lock to jam when you try to use the key. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers in order to fix the issue. Be cautious not to use too much force or pressure to cause damage to the lock mechanism. You could also try using WD-40 to lubricate and unjam the lock.
It's worth noting that if your keyfob isn't functioning it may be time to replace the batteries. You can buy replacement batteries online or at the majority of auto shops, however it's best to check your car's warranty to determine if this is covered under the conditions.
If your car isn't getting started and you're concerned that your ignition switch is stuck, you must first locate the VIN (vehicle identification number) which is typically located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will be useful in getting in touch with the appropriate people to help solve your issue. You can also reach out to your dealer, or visit the website of the manufacturer to learn more about specific issues with your car.