10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares Concerning How To Repair Car Key Lock
10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares Concerning How To Repair Car Key Lock
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
It could be an ordinary buildup of dirt or something more serious, sometimes keys from your car may become stuck inside the door lock of your car. Luckily, this is typically an easy fix that you can fix at home.
If you can't insert your key into the keyhole, this is a clear sign that the lock is blocked. To get it fixed you can apply grease to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
You can try lubricating your keyhole. You can buy a oil lubricant at most hardware stores. Spray it into the lock and then work the key into and out several times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If it doesn't work, you might need to contact a professional to fix it.
Another method of lubricating the lock is to use powdered graphite or a graphite spray. This will coat the lock and make it easier to insert and remove. This will also lubricate the pins in the lock, which could get clogged up with debris over time. You can also try wiggling the mechanism. This will probably take some time, but it can often help to unblock a car lock. If you're using a flashlight or the light from your phone, you can observe the mechanism better. If you feel like you're making progress you can continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking functions appear smooth.
If the key is not turning, you might need to take it apart and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't a job for everyone however if you're an enthusiast of tinkering, this could be a fun task. You can also buy a specialized lubricant that is specifically specially designed for locks. This type of lubricant is thicker than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective at loosening a stuck or frozen mechanism.
You can also use a modified wire hanger in order to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't guaranteed to work but may be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder is broken, it may be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a serious issue that requires professional repair or replacement. Use your spare key to start the vehicle until you are able to replace the broken part. If you don't own a spare, you can use a jigsaw to cut the damaged part of the key.
2. Unlock the door
It is crucial to regularly inspect your car door locks and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning using a graphite or silicone spray can prevent debris from clogging the lock tumblers and cause your key to stop to turn. Alternatively, you can try coating the key with graphite that has been powdered to create an interim fluid. 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 cannot be inserted, but not turned it is most likely that there is an issue with the cylinder of the lock. This is a situation that can only by fixed by a locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry methods as they can damage the lock and the door.
Another way to open a locked car is using a long metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method is suitable for older cars that have mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into.
In certain situations you could use a wedge of wood or an air wedge to create a space between the door and the window. Then using a screwdriver or rod of metal can be inserted into the gap to unlock the door. This technique is difficult to master and doesn't guarantee success, since it depends on your vehicle's specific make.
A lot of these strategies 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 services like AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers and other tools, and can be useful in a pinch. Police and security agencies in your area also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Check your auto insurance policy, as many policies include roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the ignition
It's possible to fix a minor issue if your car's key isn't turning on in the ignition. First, make sure the vehicle is in Park before trying to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to protect against theft. Sometimes people forget to put the key cylinder into Park when they shut off their car. This can cause the wheel to lock and the key to become stuck in the ignition. If this occurs you need to grab the wheel and jiggle 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 unlocks.
A foreign object may be inside the key. In your pocket, lint adhesive from tape or even corrosion due to rust can sometimes cause the pins in the ignition to not align properly. This can cause the key to not turn once it is inserted into the lock cylinder. This can be fixed with a quick cleaning using compressed air.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism using a silicone-based spray. This will help to remove grease and dirt that could cause a key to get stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant does not work, you can always call a local locksmith for help.
If your ignition isn't turning even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you might want to bump the ignition cylinder. It's a fairly simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it into the ignition, and using the handle of a powerful screwdriver to "bump" the cylinder that holds the key. This is usually enough to free one or two wax wafers that are misaligned that hinder the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may require a visit to a mechanic or car servicing station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Getting locked out of your car could 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 repaired. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock before calling someone.
If the key isn't working properly, this could indicate that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and requires replacing. You can replace the cylinder yourself, or request a locksmith to replace it for you. The cost can vary depending on the model and make of your car, as well as whether you require a transponder or a conventional key.
It's also possible that your key is worn out. In this case, you may be able to lubricate the keyhole, however it is likely that your key will require replacing. You can make a standard key at the local hardware store for just $10. A transponder key or smart keys will require how to fix a broken car door lock the services of a locksmith.
A common problem 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 in order to damage the lock mechanism. You can also use WD-40 to grease and unblock the lock.
It's also worth noting that if your key fob isn't functioning, it could be time to replace the battery. It is possible to purchase replacement batteries online or at the majority of auto shops, however 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 must first look for the VIN (vehicle identification number) that is usually located on the driver's dashboard. This will help in getting in touch with the right people to help you resolve your issue. You can also reach out to your dealer, or go to the website of the manufacturer to learn more about the specific issues that affect your car.