How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
If it's the result of a simple dirt buildup or something more serious, at times car keys can become stuck inside your car door lock. Fortunately, 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 jammed. You can fix this by applying an oil-based lubricant to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing to try is to lubricate the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant in the majority of hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray into the lock, then turn the key a few times. This may help unjam the mechanism. If it's not working then you might need to call in a professional.
You can also lubricate your lock with graphite powder or spray. This will coat the locking mechanism and make it easier to insert and take out. This will also lubricate the pins in the lock, which may get clogged up with debris as time passes. You can also try to wiggle the mechanism. It may take some time but it is a good way to unlock the lock on a car. It is possible to see the mechanism more clearly if you use a flashlight, or the light on your phone. If it appears that you're progressing, keep moving until the locking and unlocking movements seem effortless.
If the key is still not turning, you might need to take it apart and clean the lock mechanism. electronic lock repair near me isn't a task that anyone can accomplish, but it could be a great project when you're a skilled tinkerer. You can also purchase an exclusive lubricant specifically specially designed for locks. This kind of lubricant could be more efficient than WD-40 for general use in releasing the mechanism that is stuck or frozen.
You can also use a modified wire hanger to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't certain to work, but could be an alternative if all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has become broken, it may be impossible to open the door of your car or start the engine. This is a serious problem that requires professional repair or replacement. If you have a spare key you should use this to start the car until you repair the damaged part. If you don't have a spare key you can try using a jigsaw blade to cut off the broken piece of the key.
2. Unlock the Door
It is crucial to regularly inspect your car's door locks and key mechanism. Cleaning the tumblers of your lock with silicone or graphite sprays will prevent debris from blocking them and causing keys to not turn. You can also try coating the key with graphite powder to act as a temporary lubricant. This allows the key to jiggle inside the lock and may work if your car has a manual lock instead of an electronic one.
If the key is able to be inserted, but it is not turning it is most likely that there is a problem with the cylinder of the lock. This is a problem that can only be fixed by a locksmith. It is also important to avoid making use of forceful entry techniques because this could damage the lock mechanism as well as the door.
Another way to unlock the car that is locked is using a long metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method is best for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into.
In some cases, you can use a wedge made of wood or an air wedge to create a space between the door and window. Then either a screwdriver, or a rod of metal can be put into the gap to open the door. This method requires some expertise and cannot be guaranteed to work, as it is contingent on the type of vehicle.
A lot of these strategies require some improvising and time, so you should always have some sort of tool in your vehicle to access in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance services such as AAA provide kits with wire hangers as well as other tools, and are useful in the event of a need. Security and police departments in the local area also carry jims with slim sizes that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure you check your insurance policy for autos for any policies that provide roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
It is possible to fix a simple issue if your car's key isn't turning on in the ignition. First, make sure the vehicle is in Park before you attempt to remove the key. To prevent theft the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Sometimes, people turn off the car in a hurry and forget to rotate the key cylinder into Park. This can cause the wheel to lock and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If this occurs you need to grab the wheel and gently jiggle it around while turning the key. If it works the key will unlock and you'll be able to start your car.
A foreign object may be hidden inside the key. The lint in your pocket or tape, or corrosion could cause the pins to not align properly. This can cause the key not to turn when it is inserted into the lock. A quick clean using a can of compressed air will usually resolve this.
You can also grease the lock mechanism using a silicone-based spray. This will help remove the grease and dirt that often cause a car key to get stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant does not work, you can call a locksmith to help.
If you've got a brand new mechanical key, but the ignition still won't turn, it may be time to test bumping the cylinder that controls the ignition. This is a simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and putting it partially into the ignition. Then, using a heavy screwdriver handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the cylinder that holds the key. This will usually free up one or two misaligned wax wafers that hinder the ignition from turning. If this does not work, you may require a visit to an auto mechanic or a service station and purchase a new 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 does not work, it could be an indication that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and requires to be replaced. You can either replace the cylinder by yourself or employ locksmith. The cost can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle as well as if you need a transponder key or a conventional key.
It's possible that your key is worn out. In this case, you may be able to grease the keyhole, but it's likely that your key will require replacing. You can make a standard key at a local hardware store for just $10. A transponder or smart key will require the services of a locksmith.
The most frequent issue is that the key is bent, which can cause the lock stop working when you attempt to use it. You can straighten the keys using needle-nosed pliers to fix the problem. Be cautious not to use excessive force or pressure in order to damage the lock mechanism. You can also use WD-40 to grease and unblock the lock.
It's also worth noting that, if your keyfob isn't functioning, it may be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase replacement batteries online or at most auto shops, but it's worth checking your vehicle's warranty to determine whether this is covered under the terms.
If your car isn't starting and you're concerned that the ignition switch might be stuck, you should first try to find the VIN (vehicle identification number) that is usually located on the driver's dashboard. This will allow you to locate the right person for assistance. You can also reach out to your dealer, or visit the site of the manufacturer to find out more about the specific issues that affect your car.