The Biggest Problem With How To Repair Car Key Lock, And How You Can Fix It
The Biggest Problem With How To Repair Car Key Lock, And How You Can Fix It
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Sometimes, keys to cars get stuck in the door lock of your car. It could be a simple buildup or something more serious. Luckily, this is typically an easy fix you can fix at home.
If you cannot insert your key in the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock has jammed. You can fix it by applying the keyhole with lubricant.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
The first thing to try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant from most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, then turn the key a few times. This can help release the mechanism. If not, you may need to call a professional to fix it.
Another way to lubricate the lock is to apply a powdered graphite or graphite spray. This will coat the lock and make it easier to remove and insert. This will also lubricate the pins inside the lock, which may get clogged up with debris over time. Try wiggles on the mechanism. It will likely take some time however, it is a good way to help to unblock a car lock. If you're armed with a flashlight or the light from your phone, you can see the mechanism better. If it appears that you're making progress, continue moving until the locking and unlocking actions appear smooth.
If the key is not turning, you may 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 project when you're a skilled tinkerer. You can also purchase a specialty lubricant specially designed for locks. This type of lubricant may be more effective than WD-40 for general use in the release of the mechanism that is stuck or frozen.
You could also make use of an altered wire hanger to gain access to the vehicle lock. This method isn't guaranteed to be successful, but it might be an option if the other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder is damaged, it could be difficult to open the door of your car or start the engine. This is a serious problem and requires a professional repair or replacing. Make use of your spare key to start the car until you are able to repair the damaged part. 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 inspect your car door locks and key mechanisms. Cleaning the tumblers of your lock with silicone or graphite sprays will prevent debris from blocking them, causing keys to not turn. You can also try coating the key with graphite powder as temporary lubricant. This will allow the key to jiggle inside the lock and may work if you have a manual lock instead of an electronic one.
If the key is able to insert but it doesn't turn the lock, it is likely to be an issue with the lock's cylinder, which is a problem that can only be fixed by a professional locksmith. It is also essential to avoid making use of forceful entry techniques since this could cause damage to the lock mechanism and the door.
A long rod of iron can also be used to unlock cars. This rod is inserted into the lock. This method is suitable for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break in.
In certain situations the use of an air or wooden wedge can be used to create space in the gap between the window and door. Then using a screwdriver or rod of metal can be placed into the gap to unlock the door. This method isn't easy to master and doesn't guarantee success, as it is dependent on your vehicle's specific make.
In case of emergency, you'll need to come up with a plan and take some time. Always keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance services like AAA provide kits that include a wire hanger and other tools, and they can be useful in the event of a need. Police and security agencies in your area also carry jims with slim sizes that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to check your insurance policy to see if it cover roadside assistance or lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
It is possible to fix a simple problem when your car key isn't turning on in the ignition. First, make sure the car is in Park before you attempt to remove the key. To stop theft, the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Sometimes people forget to put the key cylinder into Park when they turn off their car. This can cause the wheel to become locked and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If this occurs take 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 drive.
Another reason why the car key could become stuck in the ignition is because it may have foreign material in it. Lint in your pocket, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not line up correctly. This can also cause the key to not turn once it is inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick cleaning with a can of compressed air can usually fix this.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism with a silicone-based spray. This will help remove the grease and dirt that frequently cause a car key to become jammed in the ignition. If the lubricant isn't working then you can always contact an expert locksmith in your area for assistance.
If your ignition doesn't turn even with a new mechanical ignition key, you might need to increase the speed of the ignition cylinder. This is a straightforward procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and inserting it in a small amount into the ignition. Then using a powerful screwdriver handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the cylinder of the key. This will usually release two or three misaligned wafers inside the cylinder which prevent the ignition from turning. If this does not work, you may need to visit an auto mechanic or a service station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
There may be no choice but to contact a locksmith to fix the lock. However, there are a few things you can do before calling someone else.
If the key isn't working, it could indicate that the cylinder in the lock has been damaged and needs replacing. You can replace the cylinder yourself, or have a locksmith do it for you. The cost will vary based on the model and make of your car and whether you need a transponder key or a traditional key.
You may also have a worn-out key. In this situation, lubricating the keyhole might assist, but it's highly likely that you'll require having your key replaced altogether. You can make a traditional key at your local hardware shop for $10. A transponder key or smart car central locking system repair near me key will require the services of a locksmith.
The key can become bent, causing the lock to jam if you attempt to use the key. You can straighten the key with needle-nosed pliers to correct the problem. Be cautious not to apply excessive pressure or force to cause damage to the lock mechanism. You can also apply a bit of WD-40 to grease the lock and then unjam it.
It's also worth noting that if your key fob isn't working, it may be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries online or in most auto shops, but it's a good idea to check your vehicle's warranty to see if this is covered under the terms.
If your car won't start and you're worried that the ignition switch could be stuck, first try to find the VIN (vehicle identification number), which is usually located on the driver's dashboard. This will enable you to find the right people to get help. If you prefer, you can call your dealer or visit the website of the manufacturer to find out more about the specifics of your car's problems.