20 Tools That Will Make You Better At How To Repair Car Key Lock
20 Tools That Will Make You Better At How To Repair Car Key Lock
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Sometimes, keys to cars get stuck in the door lock of your vehicle. It could be a simple buildup, or something more serious. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can fix at home.
If you're unable to insert your key into the keyhole, it is a clear sign that the lock is blocked. You can fix this by applying an oil-based lubricant to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing to try is to grease the keyhole. You can try using sprays for lubrication, which is available at many hardware stores. Spray it onto the lock, and then move the key into and out a few times. This can help unblock the mechanisms. If not, you might have to call a professional to fix it.
You can also lubricate your lock using graphite powder or graphite 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 can become clogged with debris over time. You can also try wiggling the mechanism. It may take some time, but it can often help to unblock a car lock. If you have a flashlight or the light from your phone, you can see the mechanism more clearly. If you feel like you are making progress, continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking movements appear smooth.
If the key is not turning, you might require to disassemble the lock and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't an easy task for the average person, but if you are an avid tinkerer, this could be a fun project. You can also purchase a lubricant specifically made for locks. This kind of lubricant is heavier than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective in releasing an impervious 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 be successful, but it might be an option if the other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder is broken, it may be difficult to open the car door or start the engine. This is a more serious problem that requires repair or replacement by a professional. If you have a spare key you can use it to start the vehicle until you are able to replace the damaged part. If you don't have a spare, you can make use of a jigsaw to sever the broken piece of the key.
2. Lock the door.
It is essential to regularly examine your car door locks and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning with graphite or a silicone spray can stop debris from clogging the lock tumblers and causing your key to fail to turn. Alternately, you could try coating the key with powdered graphite to create an indefinite oil. This will allow the key to jiggle inside the lock. It could be a viable option if your vehicle has a manual lock instead of an electronic lock.
If the key can be inserted but not turned it is most likely that there is an issue with the lock cylinder. This is a problem that is only fixable by locksmith. It is also essential to avoid using forceful entry techniques as this can damage the lock mechanism and the door.
A long rod of iron can also be used to unlock the car. This rod is put into the lock. This method is ideal for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Modern vehicles are more difficult to break in.
In certain situations wood wedges or an air wedge could be used to create a gap between the door and window. A screwdriver or metal rod can be then inserted into the gap to open it. This technique requires some skill and is not 100% guaranteed to work, since it depends on the specific make of the vehicle.
A lot of these techniques 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 organizations like AAA offer kits that contain wire hooks as well as other tools. They can be extremely helpful in an emergency. Additionally, local security or police departments typically have small jims that can also be used to unlock the vehicle. Make sure you check your insurance policy on your vehicle for any policies that cover roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
If your car's key doesn't turn in the ignition It is usually caused by a minor issue which can be easily solved. First, ensure that the car is in Park before trying to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to prevent theft. Sometimes, people shut off the vehicle in a hurry and forget to rotate the key cylinder into Park. This can cause the key to become stuck in the ignition, causing the wheel to lock. If this occurs you need to grab the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, the key will soon open and you will be able to start the car.
A foreign object could be hidden inside the key. Lint in your pocket or on the tape can cause the pins to not line up properly. This will also cause the key to not turn once it is inserted into the lock cylinder. This can be corrected with a quick cleaning using compressed air.
You could also try lubricating the lock mechanism with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help to check here remove grease and dirt that could cause a key to become stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant does not work, you should contact an expert locksmith.
If you have a new mechanical key and the ignition still won't turn it's possible to test bumping the cylinder of your ignition. It's a fairly simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it partway into the ignition, and using the handle of a large screwdriver to "bump" the key cylinder. This usually releases one or two misaligned wafers in the cylinder 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
There may be no choice but to contact an expert locksmith to repair the lock. There are a few things that you can do to fix the lock before calling someone.
If the key isn't working, this could indicate that the cylinder of the lock has been damaged and needs replacing. You can replace the cylinder by yourself or employ a locksmith. The cost will differ based on the make and model as well as whether you need a transponder or a traditional key.
There is also the possibility of having an old key. In this instance you might be able to grease the keyhole, but it is likely that your key will need replacing. You can create a traditional key at your local hardware shop for $10. A transponder key or smart keys will require the services of a locksmith.
A common issue is that the key itself is bent, which can cause the lock stop working when you attempt to use it. You can straighten the keys using needle-nosed pliers in order to fix the problem. Be careful not to use excessive force or pressure to cause damage to the lock mechanism. You could also try using WD-40 to grease and unblock the lock.
Also, it's important to note that when your key fob doesn't seem to be functioning, it could be time to replace the battery. You can buy batteries online or at most auto shops. However, it's important to verify your vehicle's warranty terms to see if they include this.
If you're unable to start your car and think that the ignition switch might be stuck, try to find the VIN number (vehicle ID number) located on the dashboard of the driver. This will allow you to find the right people to get help. You can also contact your dealer or go to the site of the manufacturer to find out more about specific issues with your vehicle.