15 Reasons To Not Overlook How To Repair Car Key Lock
15 Reasons To Not Overlook How To Repair Car Key Lock
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Sometimes, keys for cars can get stuck in the door lock of your car. It could be a simple buildup or something more serious. This is a common fix that you can carry out at home.
If you cannot insert your key into the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock is jammed. It is possible to fix this by applying the keyhole with lubricant.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
You can try lubricating the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant from the majority of hardware stores. Spray it on the lock, and then move the key in and out several times. This can help release the mechanism. If not, you may need to call an expert to repair it.
You can also grease your lock with graphite powder or spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier for you to insert and remove. It will also lubricate the pins within the lock, which could become clogged with debris over time. Try wiggles on the mechanism. It may take a while however, it is a good way to unlock a car lock. It is possible to see the mechanism more clearly using a flashlight, or the light on your phone. If you feel you're progressing keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking actions are smooth.
If the key does not turn, you may have to disassemble the lock and clean the mechanism that locks it. This is not a job that anyone can do, but it can be a fun project for those who love to tinker. You can also purchase a lubricant specifically designed for locks. This kind of lubricant is more robust than the general-purpose WD-40 and is more effective in loosening an impervious or frozen mechanism.
You could also use a modified wire hanger to gain access to the vehicle lock. This method is not 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an alternative if all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder has broken, it may be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacing. Use the spare key to begin the vehicle until you can replace the broken part. If you don't have a spare, you can use a jigsaw to cut the damaged part of the key.
2. Unlock the Door.
It is important that you regularly check your car's door locks and key mechanism. Periodic cleanings with a graphite or silicone spray can prevent debris from clogging the lock tumblers, causing your key to fail to turn. You can also try coating the key with graphite powder as an interim lubricant. This will allow the key to move inside the lock and may be a viable option if your vehicle has manual locks instead of an electronic lock.
If the key can insert but it does not turn it, there's a likely issue with the lock cylinder, which is a problem that can only be addressed by a professional locksmith. It is also essential to avoid using forceful entry techniques, because this could damage the lock mechanism and the door.
A long rod of metal can also be used to unlock a car. This rod is inserted into the lock. This method works best for older vehicles that have traditional mechanical locks as modern vehicles are designed to be more difficult to break into.
In some cases you could use a wedge made of wood or an air wedge to create a space between the door and the window. Then, a screwdriver or a metal rod can be inserted into the gap to open the door. This technique is difficult to master and doesn't guarantee success, as it is dependent on your vehicle's particular model.
A lot of these techniques require some improvisation and time, so it is important to always have some sort of tool in your vehicle to access in case in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance organizations like AAA offer kits that contain wire hooks as well as other tools. These can be very useful in the event of an emergency. In addition local police or security departments typically have small jims that can also be used to unlock the vehicle. Check your auto insurance policy to see if it provide roadside assistance or lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
It's possible to fix a simple problem when your car key won’t turn in the ignition. First, ensure that the vehicle is in Park before you attempt to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to prevent theft. Sometimes, people turn off the car in a hurry and fail to turn the key cylinder to Park. This can cause the wheel to become locked and the key to become stuck in the ignition. If this occurs, grab the wheel and jiggle it back and forth while key lock repair near me 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 matter inside. Lint in your pocket or tape, or corrosion could cause the pins to not align properly. This will also cause the key to not turn once it is inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean with compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism by spraying it with a silicone-based spray. 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 can call a locksmith to help.
If your ignition isn't turning even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you might be able to boost the ignition cylinder. This is a relatively easy procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it partway into the ignition, and using the handle of a heavy screwdriver to "bump" the key cylinder. This usually releases one or two wax wafers that are not aligned that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you might need to visit an auto mechanic or a service station and get a new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Being locked out of your car can be a real hassle and you may have no option but to contact an expert locksmith or repair service to get the lock fixed. However, there are some things you can do prior to calling someone else.
If the key isn't working, this could be a sign that the cylinder of the lock has been damaged and requires replacing. You can replace the cylinder yourself or employ a locksmith. The cost will vary based on the make and model of your vehicle and whether you need a transponder key or a traditional key.
It's also possible that your key is simply worn out. In this instance you might be able to grease the keyhole, however it is likely that your key will need replacement. If you're using an old-fashioned key, you can have one made at your local hardware store for around $10, however smart keys or transponders may require the services of locksmith.
The most frequent issue is that the key itself is bent, which can cause the lock become stuck when you try to use it. You can straighten the keys using needle-nosed pliers in order to fix the issue. Be careful not to apply excessive force or pressure to cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. 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 may be time to replace the battery. You can purchase replacement batteries online or at many auto shops. However, it's important to check your vehicle's warranty terms to see if they cover this.
If your car isn't starting and you're worried that the ignition switch might be stuck, you must first try to find the VIN (vehicle identification number), which is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will enable you to locate the right person for assistance. Alternatively, you can always call your dealer or visit the website of the manufacturer to find out more about your car's specific issues.