How To Save Money On How To Repair Car Key Lock
How To Save Money On How To Repair Car Key Lock
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Whether it is a simple buildup of dirt or something more serious, sometimes car keys can be stuck in the lock of your car door. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can do at home.
If you cannot insert your key in the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock is jammed. To resolve this issue it is possible to apply some lubrication to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing you should try is to lubricate the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant in most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, and then turn the key several times. This can help release the mechanism. If it doesn't, you might have to call an expert to repair it.
You can also grease your lock with graphite powder or spray. This will coat the locking mechanism and make it easier for you to insert and take out. This will also lubricate the pins inside the lock, which can become clogged with debris over time. You might also try to move the mechanism. It might take some time but this method can often unjam the lock on a car. If you're armed with a flashlight or the light from your phone, you'll be able to see the mechanism better. If you feel you're progressing, continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking actions appear effortless.
If the lock is not turning, you may have to disassemble it and clean the lock mechanism. This is not a job that the average person can accomplish, but it could be a great project if you're a tinkerer. You can also buy a specialty lubricant designed for locks. This kind of lubricant could be more efficient than WD-40 for general use when it comes to releasing an unfrozen or stuck mechanism.
You could also use an altered wire hanger to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't guaranteed to work, but it could be an option if other methods are unsuccessful.
If the lock cylinder has been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or even start the car. This is a more serious problem that requires repair or replacement by a professional. Use the spare key to begin the vehicle until you can replace the broken piece. If you don't own a spare key, you could make use of a jigsaw to sever the damaged part of the key.
2. Unlock the Door.
It is important to periodically examine your car door locks and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning with graphite or a silicone spray can prevent debris from clogging the lock tumblers, causing your key to fail to turn. Alternately, you could try coating the key with graphite powdered to create an indefinite lubricant. This allows your key to move within the lock. It could be a good idea if you have a manual lock rather than an electronic lock.
If the key is able to be inserted, but it is not turning it is likely there is a problem with the cylinder of the lock. This is a problem which can only be fixed by a locksmith. It is also important to avoid using forceful entry techniques, as this can damage the lock mechanism as well as the door.
Another way to open the car that is locked is to use a long metal rod that electronic lock repair near me can be placed inside the lock. This method is suitable for older cars with mechanical locks. Modern vehicles are more difficult to break into.
In certain instances, you can use a wedge of wood or an air wedge to create space between the door and the window. A screwdriver or metal rod can then be inserted into the gap to unlock it. This technique requires some skill and cannot be 100% guaranteed to work, since it depends on the specific type of vehicle.
In an emergency, you'll need to come up with a plan and take some time. Always keep tools in your vehicle. Roadside assistance services such as AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers and other tools, and they can be useful in times of need. In addition local police or security departments often carry slim jims, which 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 minor problem if your car key isn't turning on in the ignition. Before you take the key off, first make sure that the vehicle is in Park. To prevent theft, the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Sometimes, people turn off the vehicle in a hurry, but forget to rotate the key cylinder into 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 move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works the key will unlock and you'll be able to start your car.
A foreign object could be inside the key. In your pocket, lint, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not align correctly. This can cause the key to not turn when inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick cleaning with 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 dirt and grease which can cause a key to become stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you can contact a locksmith for assistance.
If you've got a brand new mechanical key, but the ignition doesn't seem to be turning it could be time to test bumping the ignition cylinder. This is a straightforward procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and putting it in a small amount into the ignition. Then using a screwdriver with a large handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the cylinder of the key. This usually releases one or two wax wafers that are not aligned that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this doesn't help, you might need to go to the mechanic or service station to purchase a new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
You might not have a choice but to contact an expert locksmith to repair the lock. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock before calling someone.
If the key does not work, it could indicate that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and must be replaced. You can replace the cylinder yourself or have a locksmith do it for you. The cost will vary based on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as whether you need a transponder key or a traditional key.
You may also have a worn-out key. In this situation you could try lubricating your keyhole to help, but it's likely that you will require your key replaced altogether. If you're using an old-fashioned key, you can have one made at your local hardware store for $10, however the transponder or smart keys may require the services of locksmith.
The key could be bent, which can cause the lock to jam when you attempt to use the key. You can straighten the key with needle-nosed pliers to fix the issue. Be careful not to apply excessive force or pressure to cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also apply a bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock and unjam it.
It's also worth noting that, when your keyfob doesn't work, it may be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase replacement batteries online or at many auto shops, but it's worth checking your vehicle's warranty to see if this is covered under the conditions.
If your car isn't getting started and you're worried that the ignition switch might be stuck, you should first look for the VIN (vehicle identification number) which is typically located on the driver's dashboard. This will help you locate the right person to get help. You can also call your dealer or visit the manufacturer's website to learn more about the specifics of your car's issues.