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
Whether it is the result of a simple buildup of dirt or something more serious, at times keys to your car can be stuck in your car door lock. This is usually a simple fix you can do at home.
If you are unable inserting your key in the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock is jammed. To fix this it is possible to apply lubrication to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing you should try is to grease the keyhole. You can use sprays for lubrication, which you can purchase at most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray on the lock, and then turn the key several times. This may help unjam the mechanism. If it doesn't, you might have to call an expert to fix it.
Another method of lubricating the lock is to apply a powdered graphite or graphite spray. This will coat the lock and make it easier to insert and remove. It will also lubricate the pins inside the lock, which may be clogged by debris as time passes. You can also try to wiggle the mechanism. It will likely take some time but it's a great way to get a car lock unjammed. It is possible to see the mechanism better if you use a flashlight, or the flash on your phone. If you feel like you're progressing, keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking movements appear smooth.
If the key is not turning, you may require to disassemble the lock and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't something that's appropriate for a common person however if you're a tinkerer, this can be a fun task. You can also buy a specialized lubricant that is specifically that is specifically 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 could also make use of an altered wire hanger to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method is not guaranteed to work but may be an alternative if other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder is broken, it may be impossible to open the car door or start the engine. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacing. Use your spare key to begin the vehicle until you are able to replace the damaged piece. 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 essential to regularly check the locks on your car's door and key mechanisms. Cleaning the tumblers of your lock with silicone or graphite sprays will stop debris from clogging them and causing keys to not turn. You can also try coating the key with graphite powdered to create an indefinite lubricant. This allows the key to move around inside the lock. It could be a viable option if your vehicle has a manual lock instead of an electronic lock.
If the key can be inserted, but not turned it is likely there is a problem with the cylinder of the lock. This is a problem which is only fixable by locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry techniques because they could cause damage to the lock as well as the door.
Another way to open the car that is locked is to use a long, metal rod that can be inserted into the lock. This method is best suited to older vehicles that have traditional mechanical locks, as modern vehicles are designed to be harder to break into.
In certain situations, a wooden wedge or air wedge may be used to create a gap between the window and door. A screwdriver or metal rod can then be inserted into the gap to open it. This technique requires some skill and isn't 100% guaranteed to work, since it is dependent on the particular type of vehicle.
In case of emergency, you'll have to come up with a plan and take some time. You should always keep tools in your vehicle. Roadside assistance companies like AAA provide kits that include a wire hanger and other tools, and they are useful in the event of a need. Local police and security departments also carry jims with slim sizes that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to verify your insurance policy on your vehicle, as many policies will include roadside assistance as well as lockout services.
3. Unlock the ignition
If your car key won't turn on, this is often due to a simple problem that can easily be resolved. First, make sure your vehicle is in Park before attempting to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when the key is removed to protect against theft. Sometimes, people turn off the vehicle in a hurry, but forget to turn the key cylinder into Park. This can cause the wheel to lock and the key to become stuck in the ignition. If this happens, grab hold of the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works the key will unlock and you can begin to start the car.
A foreign object could be in click here the key. The lint in your pocket or tape adhesive or even corrosion from rust can sometimes cause the pins in the ignition to not line up properly. This can also cause the key to not turn when it is placed into the lock. A quick cleaning with a can of compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism with a silicone-based spray. This will help clean the grease and dirt that frequently cause a car key to get stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work, you can always call a locksmith in your area to help.
If your ignition won't turn even with a new mechanical ignition key, you might want to bump the ignition cylinder. This is a simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and putting it partially into the ignition. Then using a screwdriver with a large handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the cylinder that holds the key. This will usually free up one or two wax wafers that are not aligned that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this does not work, you may 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 locksmiths to fix the lock. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock before calling a locksmith.
If the key itself isn't working, it could indicate that the lock cylinder has been damaged and requires replacement. You can replace the cylinder yourself or employ locksmith. The cost will vary depending on your car's make and model, as well whether you need a transponder or traditional key.
It's possible that your key is worn out. In this scenario you might be able to oil the keyhole, but it's likely that your key will need replacement. You can make a traditional key at your local hardware shop for just $10. A transponder key or smart key will require the services a locksmith.
The most frequent issue is that the key becomes bent, and this can cause the lock to jam when you try to use it. You can straighten the key with needle-nosed pliers to correct the problem. Be cautious not to use excessive force or pressure in order to damage the lock mechanism. You can also apply a little bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock, and then release it.
Also, it's important to note that if your key fob isn't functioning, it could be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries online or at most auto shops. However, it's important to check the terms of your warranty to see if they include this.
If you can't start your car and believe the ignition switch could be stuck, find the VIN number (vehicle ID number), which you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will be useful in finding the appropriate individuals to help solve your issue. If you prefer, you can call your dealer or visit the website of the manufacturer to find out more about your car's specific problems.