What's Holding Back In The How To Repair Car Key Lock Industry

How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems

Whether it is an ordinary buildup of dirt or something more serious, sometimes car keys can get stuck inside the door lock of your car. This is usually a simple fix that you can perform at home.

If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole of the lock, it is likely that the lock has been jammed. To fix this, you can apply lubrication to the keyhole.

1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole

The first thing you can try is to lubricate the keyhole. You can purchase oil lubricant at most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, and then turn the key several times. This can help unblock the lock's mechanisms. If it doesn't work then you might need to contact an expert.

Another way to lubricate the lock is to use powdered graphite or a graphite spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier for you to insert and remove. It will also clean and lubricate the pins of the lock, which could get clogged over time. You may also try wriggling the mechanism. It could take a while but this method can often unlock a car lock. You can observe the mechanism better if you use a flashlight, or the flash on your phone. If you feel like you're making progress, keep moving the lever until the locking and unlocking actions appear smooth.

If the lock is not turning, you might need to take it apart and clean the mechanism of the lock. This is not a job that the average person can accomplish, but it could be a fun task if you're a tinkerer. You can also buy a lubricant that is specifically made for locks. This type of lubricant can be more robust than the general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective at loosening a stuck or frozen mechanism.

You can also try using a modified wire coat hanger to gain access into the lock of your vehicle. This method isn't guaranteed to work, but it could be an option if all other methods fail.

If the lock cylinder has broken, it may be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a serious issue and requires a professional repair or replacement. If you have a spare key you can use it to start the car until you repair the damaged part. If you don't have a spare key, you can try using the jigsaw blade to cut off the damaged piece of the key.

2. Unlock the Door.

It is crucial to regularly check the locks on your car's door and key mechanisms. Cleaning car key lock repair near me of your lock with silicone or graphite sprays can stop debris from clogging them and causing keys to not turn. Alternatively, you can try coating the key with graphite powdered to create an interim fluid. This allows your key to jiggle within the lock. It could work if you have a manual lock rather than an electronic lock.

If the key cannot be inserted, but it is not turning, it is likely that there is a problem with the lock cylinder. This is a situation that can only by fixed by a 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 put into the lock. This method is best for older cars with mechanical locks. Modern vehicles are more difficult to break into.

In certain instances wood wedges or an air wedge may be used to create space in the gap between the door and window. A screwdriver or metal rod can then be inserted into the gap to make it easier to unlock. This technique requires some skill and isn't 100% guaranteed to work, since it is dependent on the particular model of the vehicle.

In case of emergency, you will need to think of a solution and spend some time. Always keep a tool in your car. Roadside assistance services such as AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers as well as other tools, and they can be helpful in the event of a need. In addition, local security or police departments usually have slim jims, which can be used to unlock the vehicle. Make sure to verify your insurance policy for autos and see if it will cover roadside assistance and lockout services.

3. Unlock the Ignition

It is possible to fix a basic problem when your car key won’t turn in the ignition. First, make sure the car is in Park before trying to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to protect against theft. Sometimes people forget to put the key cylinder in Park after they turn off their vehicle. 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 it back and forth while turning the key. If it works the key will eventually unlock and you'll be able to start the car.

A foreign object may be inside the key. The lint in your pocket, adhesive from tape, or even corrosion from rust can sometimes cause the pins in the ignition to not align properly. This can cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock cylinder. This can be fixed with cleaning the lock cylinder with compressed air.

You can also try lubricating the lock mechanism with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help remove the grease and dirt that often cause a car key to be stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you should contact an expert locksmith.

If your ignition isn't turning even with a new mechanical ignition key, you may be able to boost the ignition cylinder. It's a simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it partway into the ignition, and using the handle of a powerful screwdriver to "bump" the cylinder that holds the key. This usually releases one or two wax wafers that are misaligned that block the ignition from turning. If this isn't working, you might need to visit an auto repair or mechanic station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder.

4. Replace the Key

You may not have any alternative but to call an expert locksmith to repair the lock. There are a few things that you can do to fix the lock before calling a locksmith.

If the key does not work it could mean that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and must be replaced. You can replace the cylinder yourself or request a locksmith to replace it for you. The cost can differ based on the model and make of your vehicle, as well as whether you need a transponder key or a conventional key.

There is also the possibility of having an old key. In this case you could try lubricating your keyhole to help, but it's likely that you will need to have your key replaced altogether. If you're using an old-fashioned key, you can get one made at the local hardware store for about $10, but smart keys or transponders may require the services of locksmith.

A common problem is that the key becomes bent, and this could cause the lock to jam when you try to use it. To fix this you can straighten the key as far as you can with needle-nose pliers, but you must be careful not to apply too much pressure or force, as this can damage the mechanism of the lock. You could also try using WD-40 to lubricate and unjam the lock.

It's important to note that when your keyfob doesn't work it could be time to replace the batteries. You can buy replacement batteries online or at the majority of auto shops. But, it's essential to review the terms of your warranty to see if they cover this.

If you're unable to start your car, and you think that the ignition switch might be stuck, try to find the VIN (vehicle ID number) that you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will enable you to find the right people to get help. You can also reach out to your dealer, or go to the site of the manufacturer to find out more about specific issues with your car.

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Pub: 20 Apr 2024 11:49 UTC
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