Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 Different Methods To Say How To Repair Car Key Lock
Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 Different Methods To Say How To Repair Car Key Lock
Blog Article
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. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can fix at home.
If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole of the lock, it is likely that the lock has jammed. It is possible to fix this by applying the keyhole with lubricant.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
You can try lubricating the keyhole. You can purchase lubricant in the majority of hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray into the lock, then turn the key a few times. This could help loosen the lock's mechanisms. If it's not working, you may have to get an expert.
You can also lubricate your lock with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to remove and insert. It will also help to clean and lubricate the pins in the lock, which could become blocked with time. You may also try wriggling the mechanism. This will probably take some time however, it is a good way to unlock a car lock. It is possible to see the mechanism more clearly if you use a flashlight, or the light on your phone. If you feel like you're progressing keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking functions are smooth.
If the key is still not turning, you may need to take it apart and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't something that a normal person would accomplish, but it could be a great project if you're a tinkerer. You can also purchase a specialty lubricant designed for locks. This kind of lubricant could be more efficient than WD-40 for general use in the release of an unfrozen or stuck mechanism.
You can also try using a modified coat hanger to gain entry to the lock on your vehicle. This method is not certain to work, but could be an alternative if other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder is damaged, it could be difficult to open the car door or start the engine. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacing. If you have a spare key you should use this to start the vehicle until you are able to get the broken part replaced. If you don't own a spare, you can use a jigsaw to cut the broken piece of the key.
2. Unlock the door
It is crucial to regularly check your car's door locks and key mechanism. Cleaning the tumblers of your lock with silicone or graphite sprays can stop debris from clogging them and causing your keys to not turn. You could also try coating your key with powdered graphite as temporary lubricant. This allows the key to jiggle inside the lock and may be a viable option if your vehicle has a manual lock instead of an electronic one.
If the key is able to be inserted but it does not turn it, there's a likely issue with the lock the cylinder, an issue that can only be addressed by a professional locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry techniques because they could cause damage to the lock as well as the door.
A long rod of metal can also be used to unlock cars. This rod is inserted into the lock. This method is best suited to older vehicles that have traditional mechanical locks as modern cars are designed to be fix car locks more difficult to break into.
In certain situations wood wedges or an air wedge may be used to create space in the gap between the window and the door. Then, a screwdriver or a metal rod can be put into the gap to open the door. This method isn't easy to master and doesn't guarantee success, since it depends on your vehicle's particular model.
Many of these methods require some improvisation and time, so you should always have a tool in your vehicle to access in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance services like AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers as well as other tools, and they can be useful in times of need. Local police and security departments also have slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Be sure to check your insurance policy for autos, as many policies will provide roadside assistance and locksmith services.
3. Unlock the ignition
If your car's keys won't engage in the ignition This is often caused by a minor issue that is easily fixed. Before you take the key off, first make sure that the vehicle is in Park. The steering wheel is designed to lock when the key is removed to protect against theft. Sometimes, people shut off the vehicle in a hurry and fail to rotate the key cylinder to Park. This can result in the key becoming stuck in the ignition and the wheel to stop. If this occurs take the wheel and gently jiggle it back and forth while turning the key. If it works the key will eventually unlock and you can begin to start the car.
Another reason why the car key could become stuck in the ignition is that it could have foreign materials in it. In your pocket, lint, adhesive from tape, or even corrosion from rust can sometimes cause the pins in the ignition to not align correctly. This can also cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock. This can be corrected with cleaning the lock cylinder with compressed air.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism using a silicone-based spray. This will help remove the grease and dirt that could cause keys to become stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work it is possible to call a locksmith in your area to help.
If you've got a brand new mechanical key and the ignition isn't turning it could be time to try 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 screwdriver with a large handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the cylinder of the key. This usually releases one or two wax wafers that are not aligned that hinder the ignition from turning. If this isn't working, you might require a visit to an auto repair or mechanic station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Getting locked out of your car could be a nightmare and you may have no alternative but to call a locksmith or repair service to get the lock fixed. There are a few things that you can do to fix the lock prior to calling a locksmith.
If the key itself isn't working properly, this could be a sign that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and requires replacement. You can either replace the cylinder by yourself or hire a locksmith. The cost will depend on the make and model as well as whether you require a transponder or a traditional key.
You could also have an out-of-date key. In this case, you may be able to oil the keyhole, but it is likely that your key will require replacing. If you own a traditional key, you can have one made at the local hardware store for about $10, however the transponder or smart keys might require the assistance of locksmith.
The key may become bent and cause the lock to jam when you try to use the key. To resolve this issue, you can try to straighten the key as much as possible with needle-nose pliers, but you must be careful not to apply excessive pressure or force, since this can cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also use WD-40 to grease and unblock the lock.
Also, it's important to note that if your key fob isn't functioning, it could be time to replace the battery. It is possible to purchase replacement batteries on the internet or at many auto shops, but it's worth checking your vehicle's warranty to see whether this is covered under the terms.
If you're unable to start your car, and you believe the ignition switch could be stuck, try to find the VIN number (vehicle ID number) located on the dashboard of the driver. This can be helpful in getting in touch with the appropriate individuals to help solve your issue. You can also call your dealer or visit the website of the manufacturer to learn more about your car's particular problems.