What's Holding Back What's Holding Back The How To Repair Car Key Lock Industry?
What's Holding Back What's Holding Back The How To Repair Car Key Lock Industry?
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
If it's an ordinary dirt buildup or something more serious, occasionally car keys can get stuck inside your car door lock. This is usually a simple fix 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 been jammed. To resolve this issue you can apply grease to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing to try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can try using an lubricant spray that is available at many hardware stores. Spray it onto the lock, and then move the key in and out several times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If this doesn't work then you might need to contact an expert.
Another way to lubricate the lock is to apply a powdered graphite or graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to remove and insert. It will also lubricate and clean the pins of the lock, which could become clogged as time passes. You might also try to move the mechanism. It could take a while but this method can often unjam a car lock. If you have a flashlight or the light from your phone, you can observe the mechanism better. If you feel that you are making progress keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking actions feel smooth.
If the lock is not turning, you might have to disassemble it and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't a job for a common person however if you're a tinkerer, this can be an enjoyable project. You can also purchase a lubricant that is specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant may be more effective than WD-40 for general use in releasing a frozen or stuck mechanism.
You can also try an altered coat hanger made of wire to gain entry to the vehicle's 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 is broken, it may be difficult to open the door of your car or start the engine. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacing. If you have a spare key you should use this to start the car until you can repair the damaged 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 with graphite or a silicone spray can prevent debris from clogging the lock tumblers, cause your key to stop to turn. Alternatively, you can try coating the key with graphite that has been powdered to create a temporary fluid. This allows your key to jiggle in the lock. It might be a good idea if you have an old-fashioned lock instead of an electronic lock.
If the key is able to insert but it does not turn, there is likely an issue with the lock's cylinder, which is a problem that can only be solved by a professional locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry methods since they can cause damage to the lock as well as the door.
Another way to open a locked car is to use a long metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method is best suited to older vehicles that have traditional mechanical locks as newer vehicles are designed to be harder to break into.
In some cases you could use a wooden wedge or an air wedge to create a space between the door and window. A screwdriver or metal rod can be then inserted into the gap to unlock it. This method requires some experience and is not guaranteed to work, as it is contingent on the make of the vehicle.
In the event of an emergency, you'll have to come up with a plan and take some time. You should always keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance companies such as AAA offer kits that include a wire hook and other tools. These are helpful in an emergency. Police and security agencies in your area also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Be sure to check your insurance policy on your vehicle, as many policies will include roadside assistance as well as lockout services.
3. Unlock the ignition
If your car's key doesn't engage in the ignition, this is often caused by a minor issue which can be easily solved. First, make sure the vehicle is in Park before trying to remove the key. To avoid theft the steering wheel locks after the key is removed. Many people fail to put the key cylinder into Park after they turn off their vehicle. This can cause the wheel to become locked and the key to get 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, the key will soon unlock and you can begin to start the car.
A foreign object could be inside the key. The lint in your pocket or tape, or corrosion could cause the pins to not line up correctly. This can also cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean using compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You can also grease the lock mechanism with a silicone-based spray. This will help clean the grease and dirt that frequently cause a car key to become jammed in an ignition. If the lubricant does not work, you should contact an expert locksmith.
If you have a new mechanical key but the ignition isn't turning it could be time to test bumping the cylinder of your ignition. This is a straightforward procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and inserting it partially into the ignition. Then, using a heavy screwdriver handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the key cylinder. This usually releases one or two misaligned wax wafers that block the ignition from turning. If this isn't working, you might need to visit an auto repair or mechanic station and purchase a new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Locked out of your vehicle can be a real hassle and you might have no choice but to call a locksmith or a repair service to have the lock fixed. There are a few things that you can do to fix the lock prior to calling a locksmith.
If the key doesn't work it could mean that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and requires to be replaced. You can either replace the cylinder yourself or hire locksmith. The cost can differ based on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as whether you require a transponder or a traditional key.
You may also have a worn-out key. In this scenario you might be able to oil the keyhole, but it is likely that your key will require replacement. If you have a traditional key, you can have one made at your local hardware store for about $10, but smart keys or transponders may require the services of a locksmith.
A common problem is that the key itself gets bent, and this can cause the lock to become stuck when you try to use it. To solve this issue try to straighten more info the key as much as you can using needle-nose pliers, but you must be cautious not to apply too much pressure or force, since this could damage the mechanism of the lock. You can also use a bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock and unjam it.
Also, it's important to note that if your key fob isn't functioning, it could be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries online or in the majority of auto shops. But, it's essential to review your vehicle's warranty terms to see if they include this.
If you're unable to start your car, and you think the ignition switch may be faulty, find the VIN (vehicle ID number) located on the dashboard of the driver. This will allow you to locate the right person for assistance. If you prefer, you can contact your dealer or check the manufacturer's website to learn more about the specifics of your car's problems.