9 Signs You're An Expert How To Repair Car Key Lock Expert
How to Repair Car Key Lock ProblemsWhether it is the result of a simple dirt buildup or something more serious, sometimes keys from your car may become stuck inside your car door lock. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can fix at home.
If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole, it is a clear sign that the lock is stuck. You can fix it by applying lubricant to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
The first thing you can try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant from most hardware stores. Spray it on the lock and then push the key into and out a few times. This may help unjam the mechanism. If it's not working it's possible to contact an expert.
Another method of lubricating the lock is to apply powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to remove and insert. It will also lubricate the pins within the lock, which may become clogged with debris over time. You can also try wriggling the mechanism. This will probably take some time but it's a great way to get a car lock unjammed. If you have an external light source or a flashlight from your phone, you can see the mechanism more clearly. If it appears that you're making progress, continue jiggling until the locking and unlocking movements feel effortless.
If the key is not turning, you might require to disassemble the lock and clean the mechanism of the lock. This is not a job that a normal person would do, but it can be a fun task when you're a skilled tinkerer. You can also purchase a specialized lubricant that is specifically that is specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant may be more effective than WD-40 for general use when it comes to releasing the mechanism that is stuck or frozen.
You can also try an altered coat hanger made of wire to gain entry into the lock of your vehicle. This method isn't guaranteed to be successful, but it might be an option if other methods are unsuccessful.
If the lock's cylinder is damaged, it could be impossible to open the car door or start the engine. This is a much more serious issue that requires professional repair or replacement. Make use of your spare key to start the vehicle until you can repair the damaged part. If you don't have a spare key, you can use a jigsaw blade to remove the broken piece of the key.
2. Unlock the door
It is important to periodically inspect your car door locks and key mechanisms. Cleaning the lock tumblers with silicone or graphite sprays can stop debris from clogging them, causing keys to not turn. You can also try coating the key with graphite powdered to create a temporary lubricant. This allows the key to move around inside the lock. It could work if your car has an old-fashioned lock instead of an electronic lock.
If the key can be inserted, but not turned it is most likely that there is a problem with the lock cylinder. This is a problem which can only be fixed by a locksmith. It is also essential to avoid using forceful entry techniques since this could cause damage to the lock mechanism as well as the door.
A long rod of iron can also be used to unlock the car. This rod is put into the lock. This method is ideal for older cars that have mechanical locks. Newer vehicles are more difficult to break into.
In certain situations you could use a wedge of wood or an air wedge to create space between the door and window. A rod or screwdriver can then be inserted into the gap to open it. This technique requires some skill and cannot be certain to work as it is dependent on the particular make of the vehicle.
In case of emergency, you'll have to think of a solution and spend some time. You should always keep tools in your vehicle. Roadside assistance services like AAA provide kits with wire hangers and other tools, and they can be useful in the event of a need. Police and security agencies in your area also have slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to verify your insurance policy for autos for any policies that cover roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the ignition
It's possible to fix a simple problem when your car key isn't turning on in the ignition. First, ensure that your vehicle is in Park before you attempt to remove the key. To avoid theft the steering wheel locks after the key is removed. Sometimes people forget to put the key cylinder into Park after they turn off their vehicle. This could cause the wheel to become locked and the key to become stuck in the ignition. If this happens you need to grab the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you will be in a position to start your vehicle as soon as the key is unlocked.
Another reason a car key can become stuck in the ignition is because it could have foreign materials in it. In your pocket, lint adhesive from tape or even rust corrosion can sometimes cause the pins inside the ignition to not align properly. This can also cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean with compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You could also try making the lock more lubricated using an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help to remove grease and dirt that often cause a car keys to be stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you can call a locksmith to help.
If you have a new mechanical key but the ignition still won't turn, it may 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 heavy screwdriver to "bump" the cylinder of the key. This is usually enough to release two or three misaligned wafers inside the cylinder which are keeping the ignition from turning. If this isn't working, you might need to visit an auto mechanic or a service station and get a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Being locked out of your car can be a major hassle and you may be left with no option but to contact a locksmith or a repair service to have the lock fixed. But, there are a few things you can do prior to calling someone else.
If the key isn't working, it could be an indication that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and needs to be replaced. You can either replace the cylinder yourself or employ a locksmith. The cost can differ based on the make and model of your car as well as if you require a transponder key or a traditional key.
You may also have an out-of-date key. In this case it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will aid, but it's more likely that you'll require your key replaced completely. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can have one made at the local hardware store for about $10, however a transponder or smart key might require the car lock repair near me assistance of locksmith.
A common problem is that the key is bent, which can cause the lock jam when you try to use it. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers in order to fix the issue. Be cautious not to use too much force or pressure to cause damage to the lock mechanism. You can also use a small amount of WD-40 to lubricate the lock and unjam it.
It's important to note that if your keyfob isn't functioning, it may be time to replace the batteries. You can buy replacement batteries online or in most auto shops, but it's best to check your car's warranty to determine whether this is covered by the conditions.
If your car isn't getting started and you're worried that the ignition switch might be stuck, you should first locate the VIN (vehicle identification number) that is usually located on the driver's dashboard. This will enable you to locate the right person for assistance. You can also contact your dealer, or visit the site of the manufacturer to find out more about specific issues with your car.