20 Fun Infographics About How To Repair Car Key Lock
20 Fun Infographics About How To Repair Car Key Lock
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Sometimes car keys can become stuck in your car's door lock. It could be a simple buildup, or something more serious. This is usually a simple fix that you can carry out at home.
If you can't insert your key into the keyhole, it is a clear indication that the lock is blocked. To resolve this issue you can apply grease to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
Try lubricating the keyhole. You can use a lubricant spray, which you can find at most hardware stores. Spray it into the lock, and then move the key in and out a few times. This may help unjam the mechanism. If it doesn't work, you might need to contact an expert to fix it.
You can also lubricate your lock with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to insert and remove. This will also help to lubricate the pins in the lock, which can get clogged up with debris over time. You can also try wiggling the mechanism. It may take some time however, it is a good way to get a car lock unjammed. If you're armed with an external light source or a flashlight from your phone, you can see the mechanism more clearly. If you feel like you're making progress, keep moving until the locking and unlocking movements feel effortless.
If the lock is not turning, you might require to disassemble the lock and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't a job for everyone, but if you are a tinkerer, this can be an enjoyable project. You can also purchase a lubricant that is specifically made for locks. This type of lubricant may be more effective than WD-40 for general use when it comes to releasing an unfrozen or stuck mechanism.
You can also try using a modified wire coat hanger to gain entry into the lock of your vehicle. This method isn't certain to work, but could be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail.
If the lock cylinder has broken, it may be difficult to open the door or start the vehicle. 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 replace the damaged part. If you don't have a spare key, you can try using a jigsaw blade to cut off the broken piece of the key.
2. Unlock the Door.
It is crucial to regularly examine your car door locks and key mechanisms. Periodic cleanings with graphite or a silicone spray can help prevent debris from blocking the tumblers of your lock and cause your key to stop to turn. You can also try coating the key with powdered graphite to act as a temporary lubricant. This allows your key to move inside the lock. It could be effective if you own a manual lock rather than an electronic lock.
If the key can be inserted, but it is not turning it is most likely that there is a problem with the cylinder of the lock. This is a problem which is only fixable by a locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry techniques because they could cause damage to the lock and door.
Another method to open a locked vehicle is using a long metal rod that can be put into the lock. This method is best suited to older vehicles that have traditional mechanical locks, since modern cars are designed to be more difficult to break into.
In some cases, you can use a wooden wedge or an air wedge to create space between the door and window. A rod or screwdriver can be then inserted into the gap to unlock it. This method requires some experience and is not guaranteed to work, as it is dependent on the particular model of the vehicle.
Many of these methods require some improvising and time, so it is important to always have a tool in your vehicle to access in case in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance companies such as AAA offer kits that include wire hooks as well as other tools. They can be extremely useful in the event of an emergency. In addition, local security or police departments typically have small jims that can also be used to unlock vehicles. Check your auto insurance policy, as many policies provide roadside assistance or lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
It fix car door is possible to fix a minor problem if your car key isn't turning on in the ignition. First, make sure your 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 turn off the vehicle in a hurry and forget to rotate the key cylinder into Park. This could cause the wheel to lock and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If this happens, grab hold of the wheel and jiggle it back and forth while turning the key. If it works the key will eventually unlock and you can begin to start your car.
Another reason why keys for cars can get stuck in the ignition is that it could have foreign materials inside. The lint in your pocket, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not line up correctly. This can cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock. A quick clean using a can of compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You could also try making the lock more lubricated using 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 you use does not work, you can call a locksmith to help.
If your ignition won't turn even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you might need to increase the speed of the ignition cylinder. This is a simple 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 that holds the key. This is usually enough to release two or three misaligned wafers in the cylinder that prevent the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may require a visit to an auto mechanic or a service station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
There may be no other option but to call a locksmith to fix the lock. But, there are a few things you can do prior to calling someone else.
If the key itself isn't working, this could be a sign that the cylinder of the lock has been damaged and needs replacing. You can replace the cylinder on your own, or request a locksmith to replace it for you. The cost will depend on your car's model and make as well as whether you require an transponder or traditional keys.
It's also possible that your key is simply worn out. In this instance it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will help, but it's likely that you will require having your key replaced entirely. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can get one made at your local hardware store for $10, but a transponder or smart key might require the assistance of locksmith.
A common problem is that the key itself becomes bent, and this can cause the lock to jam when you try to use it. You can straighten the key with needle-nosed pliers in order to fix the issue. Be careful not to apply excessive pressure or force to cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also use a bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock, and then release it.
Also, it's important to note that if your key fob isn't working, it might simply be time to replace the battery. It is possible to purchase replacement batteries online or in many auto shops, but it's a good idea to check your vehicle's warranty to see whether this is covered by the conditions.
If you're unable to start your car and you think that the ignition switch might be faulty, find the VIN number (vehicle ID number) that you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will allow you to contact the right people to get help. You can also contact your dealer, or visit the site of the manufacturer to find out more about the specific issues that affect your vehicle.