What's Holding Back This How To Repair Car Key Lock Industry?
What's Holding Back This How To Repair Car Key Lock Industry?
Blog Article
How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Whether it is an ordinary buildup of dirt or more serious, occasionally keys to your car can be stuck in the door lock of your car. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can fix at home.
If you cannot insert your key in the keyhole of the lock, it is likely that the lock has become jammed. To fix this you can apply some lubrication to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing you can try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can purchase oil lubricant at most hardware stores. Spray it onto the lock and then work the key in and out a few times. This may help unjam the mechanism. If it doesn't, you might have to call a professional to fix it.
Another way to lubricate the lock is to apply powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to insert and remove. This will also clean and lubricate the pins of the lock, which could become blocked over time. Try wiggles on the mechanism. It might take some time but this method can often unjam the lock on a car. If you're using an external light source or a flashlight from your phone, you will be able to observe the mechanism better. If you feel that you are making progress, continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking actions are effortless.
If the key still does not turn, you might have to disassemble the lock and clean the locking mechanism. This isn't an easy task for a common person however if you're an avid tinkerer, this could be a fun task. You can also purchase an oil specifically designed for locks. This kind of lubricant is heavier than general-purpose WD-40 and is more effective in releasing the frozen or stuck mechanism.
You could also use a modified wire hanger in order to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't certain to work, but could be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has broken, it may be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacing. If you have a spare key you can use it to start the car until you can replace the damaged part. If you don't have a spare key you can try using a jigsaw blade to cut off the damaged piece of the key.
2. Lock the door.
It is essential to regularly examine your car door locks and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning with a graphite or silicone spray can prevent debris from blocking the lock tumblers and cause your key to stop to turn. You can also try coating the key with graphite powder to act as temporary lubricant. This will allow your key to move around within the lock. It might work if you have a manual lock rather than an electronic lock.
If the key is able to be inserted but it isn't turning, there is likely an issue with the lock's cylinder, an issue that can only be fixed by a professional locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry methods since they can cause damage to the lock as well as the door.
A long rod of iron can also be used to unlock the car. This rod is inserted into the lock. This method is ideal for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into.
In certain instances you can employ a wedge of wood or an air wedge to create space between the window and the door. A screwdriver or metal rod can then be inserted into the gap to unlock it. This method requires some experience and isn't guaranteed to work, as it is contingent on the make of the vehicle.
In an emergency, you'll have to improvise and spend some time. Always keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance services like AAA provide kits that include wire hangers and other tools, and they are 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 you check your auto insurance policy and see if it will provide roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the ignition
It's possible to fix a basic issue if your car's key won’t turn in the ignition. First, make sure your vehicle is in Park before attempting to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to protect against theft. Sometimes, people turn off the car in a hurry and fail to rotate the key cylinder into Park. This could cause the wheel to lock and the key to become stuck in the ignition. If this occurs, grab the wheel and gently jiggle it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, the key will soon unlock and you can begin to start the car.
Another reason why a car key can become stuck in the ignition is because it may have foreign material in it. In your pocket, lint or on the tape can cause the pins to not line up properly. This will also cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock cylinder. This can be fixed with a quick cleaning using compressed air.
You can also grease the lock mechanism using an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help to remove dirt and grease that can often cause a car key to be stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you can call a locksmith to help.
If you've got a brand new mechanical key but the ignition isn't turning it's possible to try bumping the cylinder of your ignition. It's a fairly simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it into the ignition, and then using the handle of a large screwdriver to "bump" the cylinder that holds the key. This usually releases one or two wax wafers that are not aligned that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this doesn't help, you might need to visit a mechanic or car service station to purchase an ignition cylinder that is new.
4. Replace the Key
You might not have a other option but to call an expert locksmith to repair the lock. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock prior to calling a locksmith.
If the key itself isn't working, this could be a sign that the lock cylinder is damaged and requires replacement. You can replace the cylinder yourself or request a locksmith to do it for you. The cost can vary depending on the model and make of your vehicle as well as if you require a transponder key or a conventional key.
It's also possible that your key is worn out. In this scenario, you may be able to lubricate the keyhole, however it is likely that your key will need replacing. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can have one made at the local hardware store for $10, however smart keys or transponders might require the assistance of a locksmith.
A common issue is that the key becomes bent, and this could cause the lock to become stuck when you try to use it. You can straighten the keys using needle-nosed pliers to fix the issue. Be cautious not to apply excessive force or pressure to cause damage to the website mechanism of the lock. You can also apply a little bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock and unjam it.
It's worth noting that when your keyfob doesn't work it may be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase batteries online or at the majority of auto shops. However, it's important to verify the warranty conditions of your vehicle to see if they include this.
If you're unable to start your car and you think the ignition switch may be stuck, locate the VIN number (vehicle ID number) located on the dashboard of the driver. This will allow you to locate the right person for assistance. If you prefer, you can call your dealer or visit the manufacturer's website to learn more about your car's particular issues.