7 Things About How To Repair Car Key Lock You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
7 Things About How To Repair Car Key Lock You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Sometimes, keys to cars get stuck in the door lock of your vehicle. It could be a simple buildup or something more serious. This is usually a simple fix you can do at home.
If you cannot insert your key into the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock is become jammed. To get it fixed it is possible to apply lubrication to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
Try lubricating the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant in most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray into the lock, then turn the key a few times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If it's not working it's possible to get a professional.
You can also grease your lock with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier for you to insert and take out. This will also clean and lubricate the pins of the lock which can become blocked as time passes. You can also try to wiggle 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 can see the mechanism better. If you feel that you are making progress, continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking movements feel effortless.
If the key does not turn, you may have to disassemble the lock and clean the mechanism that locks it. This is not a job that a normal person would accomplish, but it could be a fun project for those who love to tinker. You can also buy a specialty lubricant designed for locks. This type of lubricant may be more efficient than WD-40 for general use when it comes to releasing the mechanism that is stuck or frozen.
You could also try using a modified coat hanger to gain access into the lock of your vehicle. This method is not 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an alternative if other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder is been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a more serious issue that requires a professional repair or replacement. If you have a spare key you should use this to start the car until you get the broken part replaced. If you don't have a spare, you can use a jigsaw to cut the broken part of the key.
2. Unlock the Door.
It is essential to regularly check the 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 can also try coating the key with powdered graphite as a temporary lubricant. This allows the key to move inside the lock. It could work if your car has manual locks instead of an electronic lock.
If the key can insert but it does not turn it, there's a likely issue with the lock's cylinder, an issue that can only be addressed by a professional locksmith. It is also essential to avoid using forceful entry techniques, as this can damage the lock mechanism as well as the door.
Another way to unlock a locked car is to use a long metal rod that can be inserted into the lock. This method is best for older cars that have mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break in.
In certain situations you could use a wooden wedge or an air wedge to create space between the window and the door. Then, a screwdriver or a rod of steel can be inserted into the gap to unlock the door. This method requires some experience and isn't 100% guaranteed to work, since it is contingent on the type of vehicle.
A lot of these techniques require some improvisation and time, so you should always have a tool in your vehicle that you can access in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance companies such as AAA offer kits that include wire hooks as well as other tools. These are useful in the event of an emergency. Additionally local police or security departments typically have small jims that can also be used to unlock a vehicle. Check your auto insurance policy to see if it provide roadside assistance or locksmith services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
If your car key won't turn in the ignition This is often due to a simple problem which can be easily solved. Before you take the key off, first make sure that the vehicle is in Park. To stop theft the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Some people do not put the key cylinder in Park when they shut off their vehicle. This could cause the key to get stuck in the ignition, causing the wheel to become locked. 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 vehicle as soon as the key is unlocked.
A foreign object could be inside the key. Lint in your pocket, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not align correctly. This can cause the key not to turn when it is put into the lock. A quick cleaning with a can of compressed air can usually fix this.
You could also try lubricating the lock mechanism with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help remove the dirt and grease which can cause a key to get stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work, you can always call a local locksmith for help.
If you've purchased a new mechanical key but the ignition isn't turning it's possible to try bumping the cylinder that controls the ignition. 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 cylinder of the key. This will usually free up one or two wax wafers that are misaligned that block the ignition from turning. If this doesn't help you, you may need to visit the mechanic or service station and get an ignition cylinder that is new.
4. Replace the Key
Being locked out of your car could be a real hassle and you may have no choice but to call a locksmith or a repair service to get the lock repaired. But, there are some things you can do before calling someone else.
If the key isn't working, this could be a sign that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and requires replacement. You can replace the cylinder by yourself or employ locksmith. The cost will vary based on the make and model of your vehicle as well as if you require a transponder key or a conventional key.
It's possible that your key is worn out. In this case you might be able to oil the keyhole, but it is likely that your key will require replacement. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can get one made at the local hardware store for around $10, however the transponder or smart keys may require the services of a locksmith.
The key may become bent, causing the lock to jam when you auto door lock repair near me try to use the key. To resolve this issue you can straighten the key as much as you can using needle-nose pliers. However, be cautious not to apply excessive pressure or force, as this can damage the mechanism of the lock. You can also use a bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock and unjam it.
It's important to note that in the event that your keyfob's not working it may be time to replace the batteries. You can buy batteries online or at most auto shops. However, it's important to review the warranty conditions of your vehicle to determine if they cover this.
If you can't start your car and think that the ignition switch might be faulty, find the VIN (vehicle ID number) that you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will be useful in finding the appropriate people to help solve your problem. You can also contact your dealer, or go to the site of the manufacturer to find out more about specific problems with your car.