How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Sometimes, keys for cars can get stuck in the door lock of your car. It could be a simple buildup or something more serious. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that you can fix at home.
If you cannot insert your key into the keyhole of the lock, it is likely that the lock is jammed. You can fix it by applying an oil-based lubricant to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing to try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can try using a lubricant spray, which is available at many hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray into the lock, then turn the key several times. This can help release the mechanism. If it doesn't, you might have to call an expert to repair it.
Another method of lubricating the lock is to apply powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to remove and insert. This will also lubricate the pins within the lock, which could get clogged up with debris over time. Try wiggles on the mechanism. It will likely take some time, but it can often get a car lock unjammed. If you have a flashlight or the light from your phone, you'll be able to observe the mechanism better. If you feel like you're making progress, keep moving until the locking and unlocking functions seem effortless.
If the lock is not turning, you may require to disassemble the lock and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't an easy task for everyone but if you're an enthusiast of tinkering, this could be a fun task. You can also purchase a specialty lubricant specially 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 could also use a modified wire hanger in order to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't guaranteed to work but may be an alternative if all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has become damaged, it could be difficult to open the door of your car or start the engine. This is a much more serious issue that requires repair or replacement by a professional. If you have a spare key you can use it to start the car until you can repair the damaged part. If you don't have a spare key you can use a jigsaw blade to cut off the damaged piece of the key.
2. Lock the door.
It is crucial to regularly check the door locks and key mechanism. Regular cleaning with a graphite or silicone spray can stop debris from blocking the tumblers of your lock and causing your key to fail to turn. You could also try coating the key with graphite powder as an interim lubricant. This will allow the key to jiggle inside the lock. It might work if you have 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 an issue with the cylinder for the lock. This is a situation that is only fixable by locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry methods since they can cause damage to the lock and door.
Another method to open a locked car is to use a long, metal rod that can be put into the lock. This method works best on older cars that have traditional mechanical locks, since modern cars are designed to be more difficult to break into.
In certain situations you can employ a wedge made of wood or an air wedge to create a space between the door and window. Then using a screwdriver or rod of steel can be inserted into the gap to open the door. This method requires some expertise and cannot be guaranteed to work, as it is dependent on the particular make of the vehicle.
In an emergency, you will need to come up with a plan and take 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 that are useful in a pinch. Police and security agencies in your area also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Be sure to check your insurance policy on your vehicle and see if it will provide roadside assistance and locksmith services.
3. Unlock the ignition
It's possible to fix a simple issue if your car's key isn't turning in the ignition. Before you take the key off, first make sure that the vehicle is in Park. To avoid theft, the steering wheel locks after the key is removed. Some people do not place the key cylinder in Park after they turn off their vehicle. This can cause the key to become stuck in the ignition and the wheel to lock. If this occurs, grab the wheel and jiggle it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you will be capable of starting your car as soon as the key is unlocked.
A foreign website object could be in the key. The lint in your pocket or tape adhesive or even corrosion due to rust can sometimes cause the pins inside the ignition to not align properly. This can cause the key to not turn when it is placed into the lock. A quick clean using 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 often cause a car key to get stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you should contact a locksmith to help.
If your ignition isn't turning even with a brand new mechanical ignition key, you might need to increase the speed of the ignition cylinder. It's a fairly simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it into the ignition, and using the handle of a heavy screwdriver to "bump" the cylinder of the key. This usually releases one or two misaligned wax wafers that hinder the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may need to visit an auto repair or mechanic station and get a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
There may be no choice but to contact an expert locksmith to repair the lock. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock before calling a locksmith.
If the key itself isn't working, it could be a sign that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and requires replacement. You can replace the cylinder yourself or hire locksmith. The cost will depend on the model and make and whether you need a transponder or a traditional key.
It's also possible that your key is simply worn out. In this case, you may be able to oil the keyhole, but it's likely that your key will require replacing. If you're using a traditional key, you can have one made at your local hardware store for around $10, but smart keys or transponders may require the services of a locksmith.
The key may become bent, which can cause the lock to jam when you attempt to use the key. You can straighten the keys using needle-nosed pliers to correct the problem. Be careful not to use excessive force or pressure to cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You could also try using WD-40 to grease and unblock the lock.
It's important to note that if your keyfob isn't functioning it may be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase batteries online or at the majority of auto shops. But, it's essential to review your vehicle's warranty terms to see if they cover this.
If you are unable to start your car and you think that the ignition switch might be stuck, find the VIN (vehicle ID number), which you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will help in contacting the right people to help you solve your problem. You can also reach out to your dealer, or go to the manufacturer's site to learn more about the specific issues that affect your vehicle.