How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
It could be an ordinary buildup of dirt or more serious, occasionally car keys can get stuck inside the lock of your car door. This is usually a simple fix that you can perform at home.
If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole, it is a clear indication that the lock is jammed. You can fix it by applying an oil-based lubricant to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
The first thing to try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can try using an lubricant spray that is available at many hardware stores. Spray it onto the lock, and then move the key in and out a few times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If it doesn't, you might have to call an expert to fix it.
You can also lubricate your lock with graphite powder or spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to insert and remove. This will also lubricate the pins in the lock, which may become clogged with debris over time. You may also try wriggling the mechanism. It could take a while but it is a good way to unjam the lock on a car. It is possible to see the mechanism more clearly by using a flashlight, or the light on your phone. If you feel that you are making progress you can continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking movements feel effortless.
If the key is still not turn, you might have to disassemble it and clean the mechanism that locks it. This isn't a job for the average person, but if you are an enthusiast of tinkering, this could be a fun project. You can also buy a specialty lubricant designed for locks. This type of lubricant is heavier than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective at loosening an impervious or frozen mechanism.
You could also try using a modified wire 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 has become broken, it may be difficult to open the car door or start the engine. This is a much more serious problem that requires repair or replacement by a professional. Use the spare key to start the vehicle until you can replace the damaged piece. If you don't have a spare key, you can use an jigsaw to cut off the broken piece of the key.
2. Unlock the door
It is crucial to regularly check the locks on your car's door and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning using graphite or a silicone spray can help prevent debris from blocking the lock tumblers, causing your key to fail to turn. You could also try coating the key with graphite powder to act as a temporary lubricant. This allows the key to jiggle inside the lock and may work if your car has manual locks instead of an electronic lock.
If the key cannot be inserted, but it is not turning it is most likely that there is a problem with the cylinder for the lock. This is a problem which can only be fixed 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 ideal for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into.
In some cases, you can use a wooden car door locks wedge or an air wedge to create a space between the door and window. Then, a screwdriver or a rod of steel can be placed into the gap to unlock the door. This method requires some expertise and cannot be guaranteed to work, as it depends on the specific model of the vehicle.
A lot of these techniques require some improvisation and time, so you should always have some sort of tool in your vehicle to gain access in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance companies such as AAA provide kits that include wire hooks and other tools. These can be very helpful in an emergency. In addition, local security or police departments typically have small jims that can also be used to open a vehicle. Make sure you check your insurance policy on your vehicle, as many policies will cover roadside assistance and locksmith services.
3. Unlock the ignition
If your car's keys won't turn on, this is often caused by a minor issue which can be easily solved. Before removing the key first, make sure the vehicle is in Park. To prevent theft, the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Many people fail to put the key cylinder into Park when they turn off their vehicle. This can cause the wheel to lock and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If this happens you need to grab the wheel and move it around while turning the key. If it works, the key will soon unlock and you can begin to drive.
Another reason 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 align correctly. This will also cause the key to not turn when inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean with a can of compressed air can usually fix this.
You can also try lubricating the lock mechanism with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help remove the grease and dirt that could cause a key to become stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work, you should contact a locksmith for assistance.
If you have a new mechanical key but the ignition still won't turn it could be time to consider bumping the cylinder of your ignition. This is a relatively easy procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it partway into the ignition, and then using the handle of a powerful screwdriver to "bump" the key cylinder. This usually releases one or two wax wafers that are misaligned that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may need to visit an auto mechanic or a service station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
You might not have a other option but to call a locksmith to fix the lock. There are a few things you can do before calling someone else.
If the key does not work, it could indicate that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and must be replaced. 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 car and whether you need a transponder key or a traditional key.
It's possible that your key is simply worn out. In this scenario you might be able to oil the keyhole, but it's likely that your key will require replacing. You can create a traditional key at your local hardware shop for $10. A transponder or smart key will require the services of a locksmith.
A common issue is that the key gets 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 in order to fix the problem. Be careful not to use excessive force or pressure, as it can damage the lock mechanism. You can also use a small amount of WD-40 to grease the lock and then unjam it.
It's worth noting that in the event that your keyfob's not working, it may be time to replace the batteries. You can buy replacement batteries on the internet or at most auto shops, but it's best to check your car's warranty to determine if 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) located on the dashboard of the driver. This will be useful in contacting the appropriate individuals to help solve your problem. You can also contact your dealer, or visit the manufacturer's site to learn more about specific issues with your car.