20 Fun Informational Facts About How To Repair Car Key Lock
How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems Sometimes car keys can become stuck in your car's door lock. It could be a simple buildup, or something more serious. Luckily, this is an easy fix you can fix at home. If you can't insert your key into the keyhole, this is a clear indication that the lock is jammed. You can fix this by applying lubricant to the keyhole. 1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole Try lubricating the keyhole. You can try using an lubricant spray that you can purchase at most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, and then turn the key several times. This may help to unjam the lock's mechanisms. If not, you might need to contact an expert to fix it. Another method of lubricating the lock is to use powdered graphite or a graphite spray. This will coat the mechanism that locks it 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 may also try wriggling the mechanism. It could take a while but this method can often unlock the lock on a car. It is possible to see the mechanism more clearly if you use a flashlight, or the flash on your phone. If you feel like you're making progress, keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking actions feel effortless. If the lock is not turning, you may need to take it apart and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't something that the average person can accomplish, but it could be a great project if you're a tinkerer. You can also buy a lubricant specifically made for locks. This kind of lubricant is more robust than the general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective in releasing a stuck or frozen mechanism. You can also make use of a modified wire hanger in order to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an alternative if other methods fail. If the lock cylinder has been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or even start the car. This is a serious issue that requires a repair or replacement by a professional. If you have a spare key you should use this to start the vehicle until you are able to replace the damaged part. If you don't have an extra key, you can make use of a jigsaw for cutting the broken part of the key. 2. Unlock the Door. It is essential to regularly examine your car door locks and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning with a silicone spray or graphite spray can stop debris from blocking the lock tumblers, 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 your key to move around within the lock. It may be effective if you own an old-fashioned lock instead of an electronic lock. If the key is able to be inserted, but it is not turning it is likely there is a problem with the cylinder of the lock. This is a problem which is only fixable by a locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry techniques as they can cause damage to the lock and door. Another way to open a locked vehicle is to use a long metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method is best for older cars with mechanical locks. Newer vehicles are more difficult to break into. In certain instances, an air or wooden wedge can be used to create space in the gap between the door and window. Then either a screwdriver, or a metal rod can be put into the gap to open the door. This method requires some experience and cannot be 100% guaranteed to work, since it depends on the specific model of the vehicle. In the event of an emergency, you will need to improvise and spend some time. You should always keep a tool in your car. Roadside assistance organizations like AAA provide kits that include a wire hook and other tools. These can be very useful in the event of an emergency. In addition, local security or police departments typically have slim jims, which can also be used to unlock the vehicle. Review your auto insurance policy as many policies provide roadside assistance or lockout services. 3. Unlock the Ignition If your car's key doesn't turn in the ignition This is often caused by a minor issue that can easily be resolved. First, make sure the vehicle is in Park before you attempt to remove the key. To prevent theft, the steering wheel locks after the key is removed. Sometimes, people shut off the vehicle in a hurry and fail 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 happens, grab hold of the wheel and jiggle back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you will be in a position to start your vehicle as soon as the key is released. Another reason why a car key can become stuck in the ignition is because it may have foreign matter in it. In your pocket, lint, adhesive from tape, or even corrosion due to rust could cause the pins in the ignition to not align properly. This will also cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock cylinder. This can be corrected with a quick cleaning using compressed air. You can also try making the lock more lubricated using a silicone-based spray. This will help remove the dirt and grease that can frequently cause a car key to get stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant does not work then you can always contact an expert locksmith in your area for assistance. If your ignition won't turn even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you might need to increase the speed of the ignition cylinder. This is a simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and inserting it partially into the ignition. Then using a powerful screwdriver handle, “bump” or “squeeze” the key cylinder. This usually releases one or two misaligned wax wafers that block the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may require a visit to an auto mechanic or a service station and purchase a new ignition cylinder. 4. Replace the Key Being locked out of your car could be a real hassle and you might have no choice but to call an expert locksmith or repair service to have the lock repaired. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock before calling someone. If the lock itself isn't working, it could be a sign that the cylinder in the lock has been damaged and needs replacement. www.g28carkeys.co.uk can replace the cylinder on your own, or ask a locksmith to do it for you. The cost will vary depending on the car's make and model as well as whether you require an transponder or traditional keys. It's possible that your key is worn out. In this case you might be able to lubricate the keyhole, however it's likely that your key will need replacement. If you have a traditional key, you can have one made at the local hardware store for about $10, but a transponder or smart key may require the services of a locksmith. The key can become bent and cause the lock to jam when you attempt to use the key. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers to correct the issue. Be careful not to use too much force or pressure to cause damage to the lock mechanism. You could also try using WD-40 to grease and unblock the lock. Also, it's important to note that the key fob you've purchased isn't working, it might simply be time to replace the battery. You can purchase replacement batteries online or at most auto shops, but it's best to check your car's warranty to see whether 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 number (vehicle ID number) located on the dashboard of the driver. This will enable you to contact the right people to get help. You can also reach out to your dealer, or go to the website of the manufacturer to learn more about the specific issues that affect your car.