Five Things Everyone Makes Up About How To Repair Car Key Lock
Five Things Everyone Makes Up About How To Repair Car Key Lock
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Whether it is the result of a simple dirt buildup or something more serious, occasionally keys from your car may be stuck in your car door lock. This is usually a simple fix that you can perform at home.
If you cannot insert your key in the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock has become jammed. You can fix this by applying the keyhole with lubricant.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing you should try is to grease the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant from most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray into the lock, and then turn the key a few times. This could help loosen the mechanisms. If it doesn't work then you might need to get an expert.
You can also grease your lock with graphite powder 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 could get clogged up with debris over time. You can also try to wiggle the mechanism. It may take some time but this method can often unjam a car lock. You can observe the mechanism better using a flashlight, or the light on your phone. If you feel like you're making progress, keep moving the lever until the locking and unlocking movements appear smooth.
If the key still does not turn, you could have to disassemble it and clean the mechanism that locks it. This isn't a job for the average person but if you're a tinkerer, this can be a fun task. You can also purchase an oil specifically designed for locks. This kind of lubricant is thicker than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective in releasing the frozen or stuck mechanism.
You could also use a modified wire hanger to gain access to the vehicle lock. This method isn't 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an alternative if other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has broken, it can be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a serious issue that requires repair or replacement by a professional. Use your spare key to begin the vehicle until you can replace the broken piece. If you don't have a spare key, you can try using the jigsaw blade to cut off the broken piece of the key.
2. Unlock the Door
It is essential to regularly inspect your car's door locks and key mechanism. Cleaning the tumblers of your lock with graphite or silicone sprays can keep debris from blocking them, causing keys to not turn. You could also try coating your key with graphite powder as temporary lubricant. This allows the key to move inside the lock and may work if you have manual locks instead of an electronic one.
If the key is able to be inserted but not turned, it is likely that there is an issue with the cylinder for the lock. This is a problem that can only be fixed by a locksmith. It is also important to avoid making use of forceful entry techniques since this could cause damage to the lock mechanism as well as the door.
Another method to open a locked car is using a long metal rod that can be put into the lock. This method works best on older vehicles with traditional mechanical locks as modern cars are designed to be harder to crack.
In some cases you could use a wedge made of wood or an air wedge to create space between the door and the window. A rod or screwdriver can then be inserted into the gap to open it. This technique is difficult to master and doesn't guarantee success, as it is dependent on your vehicle's particular model.
In case of emergency, you'll need to improvise and spend some time. Always keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance services like AAA provide kits with wire hangers as well as other tools, and can be helpful in the event of a need. Security and police departments in the local area also have slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to verify your auto insurance policy, as many policies will cover roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the ignition
If your car's keys won't engage in the ignition, this is often caused by a minor issue which can be easily solved. First, make sure the car is in Park before you attempt to remove the key. automotive lock repair To stop theft, the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Some people do not place the key cylinder in Park when they turn off their vehicle. This can cause the key to get stuck in the ignition, causing the wheel to become locked. If this occurs, grab the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works the key will open and you will be able to start the car.
A foreign object could be inside the key. In your pocket, lint or on the tape can cause the pins to not line up properly. This can also cause the key to not turn once it is inserted into the lock cylinder. This can be corrected with a quick cleaning using compressed air.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism by spraying it with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help remove the grease and dirt that could cause a key to get stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant isn't working then you can always contact an expert locksmith in your area for assistance.
If you have a new mechanical key, but the ignition doesn't seem to be turning, it may be time to try bumping the ignition cylinder. This is a simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and then inserting it partially into the ignition. Then using a powerful screwdriver handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the cylinder that holds the key. This is usually enough to release one or two misaligned wafers within the cylinder that prevent the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may need to visit a mechanic or car servicing station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
There may be no alternative but to call an expert locksmith to repair the lock. However, there are a few things you can do prior to calling someone else.
If the key itself isn't working, this could be a sign that the lock cylinder has been damaged and needs replacing. You can replace the cylinder yourself or hire locksmith. The cost will vary depending on the make and model as well as whether you require an transponder or traditional keys.
You could also have a worn-out key. In this case, lubricating the keyhole might assist, but it's highly likely that you will need to have your key replaced altogether. If you're using a traditional key, you can get one made at the local hardware store for about $10, however the transponder or smart keys might require the assistance of locksmith.
A common issue is that the key becomes bent, and this could cause the lock to stop working when you attempt to use it. To fix this you can straighten the key as much as you can using needle-nose pliers, but you must be careful not to apply excessive pressure or force, since it could damage the lock mechanism. You could also try using WD-40 to lubricate and unjam the lock.
Also, it's important to note that the key fob you've purchased isn't working, it might simply be time to replace the battery. You can purchase replacement batteries on the internet or at most auto shops, but it's worth checking your vehicle's warranty to determine whether this is covered under the conditions.
If you're unable to start your car and you believe the ignition switch could be faulty, find the VIN (vehicle ID number) that you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This can be helpful in contacting the appropriate people to help solve your issue. You can also contact your dealer or go to the site of the manufacturer to find out more about the specific issues that affect your car.