10 Inspiring Images About How To Repair Car Key Lock
How to Repair Car Key Lock ProblemsWhether it is an ordinary buildup of dirt or more serious, at times car keys can become stuck inside your car door lock. Luckily, this is an easy fix that you can do at home.
If you are unable to insert your key in the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock is become jammed. You can fix this by applying lubricant to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
You can try lubricating the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant from most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, then turn the key several times. This may help unjam the mechanism. If it doesn't, you may need to call a professional to fix it.
You can also grease your lock with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will lubricate the locking mechanism and make it easier for you to insert and take out. This will also clean and lubricate the pins of the lock that can become blocked as time passes. You can also try to wiggle the mechanism. It may take some time but it can usually unjam the lock on a car. You can see the mechanism better by using a flashlight, or the flash on your phone. If it seems like you're making progress, continue moving the lever until the locking and unlocking movements seem smooth.
If the lock is not turning, you may require to disassemble the lock and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't something that's appropriate for a common person, but if you are an avid tinkerer, this could be a fun project. You can also buy a lubricant specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be more efficient than WD-40 for general use in releasing a frozen or stuck mechanism.
You can also try using an altered coat hanger made of wire to gain entry to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't 100% guaranteed to work, but it may be an option in the event that all the other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has become damaged, it could be difficult to open the car door or start the engine. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacement. Make use of your spare key to begin the vehicle until you can replace the broken piece. If you don't have a spare key, you could make use of a jigsaw to sever the broken part of the key.
2. Lock the door.
It is important to periodically check the locks on your car's door and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning with a graphite or silicone spray can prevent debris from blocking the lock tumblers and causing your key to fail to turn. You can also try coating the key with powdered graphite to create a temporary oil. This will allow your key to jiggle inside the lock. It could be effective if you own an old-fashioned lock instead of an electronic lock.
If the key cannot be inserted but not turned, it is likely that there is an issue with the cylinder of the lock. This is a problem which is only fixable by locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry techniques because they could damage the lock and the door.
A long rod of metal can also be used to unlock the car. This rod is put into the lock. This method works best on older cars that have traditional mechanical locks as modern vehicles are designed to be harder to break into.
In some cases wood wedges or an air wedge could be used to create space in the gap between the window and the door. Then using a screwdriver or metal rod can be inserted into the gap to open the door. This technique isn't easy to master and doesn't guarantee success, as it is dependent on your car's make and model.
A lot of these strategies require some improvisation and time, so you should always have some sort of tool in your vehicle that you can access in case in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance services such as AAA provide kits with wire hangers as well as other tools that can be helpful in times of need. Additionally local police or security departments usually have small jims that can also be used to open the vehicle. Make sure to check your insurance policy, as many policies cover roadside assistance or locksmith services.
3. Unlock the ignition
It is possible to fix a minor issue if your car's key isn't turning on in the ignition. Before removing the key, first make sure that the vehicle is in Park. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to stop theft. Sometimes people forget to put the key cylinder in Park when they turn off their vehicle. This can cause the wheel to become locked and the key to become stuck in the ignition. If this occurs, grab the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, the key will soon unlock and you'll be able to start your car.
A foreign object may be inside the key. The lint in your pocket, adhesive from tape, or even corrosion from rust could cause the pins inside the ignition to not align correctly. This can also cause the key not to turn when it is inserted into the lock. A quick cleaning with a can of door lock car repair compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You could also try lubricating the lock mechanism with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help get rid of the grease and dirt that could cause keys to become stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work, you can contact an expert locksmith.
If your ignition isn't turning even with a new mechanical ignition key, you might need to increase the speed of the ignition cylinder. This is a simple process 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 of the key. This is usually enough to release two or three misaligned wafers within the cylinder that are keeping the ignition from turning. If this does not work, you may require a visit to a mechanic or car servicing station and get a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
You might not have a choice but to contact locksmiths to fix the lock. There are a few things that you can do to fix the lock before calling a locksmith.
If the key itself isn't working, it could be a sign that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and requires replacing. You can replace the cylinder yourself or employ locksmith. The cost can differ based on the model and make of your vehicle, as well as whether you need a transponder key or a conventional key.
You could also have a worn-out key. In this case you might be able to lubricate the keyhole, but it's likely that your key will require replacing. If you're using an old-fashioned key, you can have one made at the local hardware store for $10, however the transponder or smart keys may require the services of locksmith.
A common issue is that the key becomes bent, and this could cause the lock to jam when you try to use it. To solve this issue you can straighten the key as far as you can with needle-nose pliers, but be cautious not to apply too much pressure or force, since this could damage the mechanism of the lock. You can also use WD-40 to lubricate and open the lock.
It's worth noting that if your keyfob isn't functioning, it may be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase replacement batteries online or at the majority of auto shops. However, it's important to review the terms of your warranty to see if they cover this.
If you can't start your car and think the ignition switch may be stuck, locate the VIN number (vehicle ID number), which you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will help you contact the right people for assistance. You can also contact your dealer, or go to the website of the manufacturer to learn more about the specific issues that affect your car.