What Freud Can Teach Us About How To Repair Car Key Lock
How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
It could be the result of a simple dirt buildup or something more serious, sometimes keys to your car can get stuck inside your car door lock. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can fix at home.
If you are unable inserting your key in the keyhole of the lock, it is likely that the lock has jammed. To get it fixed it is possible to apply grease to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
Try lubricating the keyhole. You can use sprays for lubrication, which you can purchase at most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray on the lock, and then turn the key a few times. This may help unjam the mechanism. If not, you might have to call an expert to fix it.
You can also lubricate your lock with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will coat the lock and make it easier to remove and insert. It will also lubricate the pins in the lock, which could become clogged with debris over time. You may also try wriggling the mechanism. This will probably take some time but it's a great way to unlock a car lock. If you're armed with a flashlight or the light from your phone, you can observe the mechanism better. If you feel you're making progress keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking functions appear effortless.
If the key is not turning, you may have to disassemble it and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't a job for a common person but if you're an avid tinkerer, this could be a fun project. You can also buy an exclusive lubricant specifically that is specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be more efficient than WD-40 for general use in the release of a frozen or stuck mechanism.
You could also use a modified wire hanger in order to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method is not certain to work, but could be an alternative if all other methods fail.
If the lock cylinder has broken, it may be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a more serious issue that requires repair or replacement by a professional. If you have a spare key you can use it to start the car until you replace the damaged part. If you don't have an extra key, you can make use of a jigsaw for cutting the broken piece of the key.
2. Unlock the Door.
It is important to periodically inspect your car door locks and key mechanisms. Cleaning the tumblers of your lock with silicone or graphite sprays will keep debris from blocking them, causing keys to not turn. You could also try coating the key with graphite powder to act as an interim lubricant. This will allow the key to move inside the lock. It may work if you have a manual lock, rather than an electronic lock.
If car door locks repair is able to be inserted, but it is not turning it is likely there is an issue with the cylinder for the lock. This is a problem that can only by fixed by a locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry techniques because they could damage the lock and the door.
Another method to open the car that is locked is to use a long, metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method is suitable for older cars with mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into.
In some cases you could use a wedge made of wood or an air wedge to create space between the door and window. Then, a screwdriver or a rod of metal can be put into the gap to open the door. This technique is difficult to master and doesn't ensure success, as it is dependent on your car's make and model.
In an emergency, you'll need to improvise and spend some time. It is essential to keep a tool in your car. Roadside assistance organizations like AAA offer kits that contain wire hooks as well as other tools. They can be extremely useful in the event of an emergency. Local police and security departments also have slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to verify your insurance policy on your vehicle for any policies that provide roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the ignition
It is possible to fix a basic problem if your car key won’t turn in the ignition. First, make sure your vehicle is in Park before you attempt to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when the key is removed to protect against theft. Sometimes, people shut off the car in a hurry, but forget to rotate the key cylinder to Park. This could cause the key to get stuck in the ignition, causing the wheel to become locked. If this happens you need to grab the wheel and jiggle it around while turning the key. If it works the key will open and you will be able to start the car.
Another reason the car key could become stuck in the ignition is because it may have foreign material inside. Lint in your pocket, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not align correctly. This can cause the key to not turn once it is inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean using compressed air can usually fix this.
You can also lubricate the lock mechanism by spraying it with a silicone-based spray. This will help to remove grease and dirt that can cause a key to become stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant isn't working then you can always contact a locksmith in your area to help.
If your ignition doesn't turn even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you may want to bump the ignition cylinder. This is a relatively easy procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it partway into the ignition, and then using the handle of a heavy screwdriver to "bump" the cylinder that holds the key. This is usually enough to release one or two misaligned wafers inside the cylinder which prevent the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work you, you may need to visit a mechanic or car service center and purchase a new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Locked out of your vehicle can be a major hassle and you may have no choice but to call a locksmith or a repair service to get the lock fixed. But, there are a few things you can do prior to calling someone else.
If the key isn't working, it could indicate that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and requires replacing. You can replace the cylinder yourself or employ locksmith. The cost will vary based on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as whether you require a transponder key or a conventional key.
You may also have a worn-out key. In this scenario you might be able to lubricate the keyhole, but it is likely that your key will require replacing. You can make a standard key at your local hardware shop for $10. A transponder key or smart key will require the services of a locksmith.
The most frequent issue is that the key becomes bent, and this can cause the lock to become stuck when you try to use it. To resolve this issue you can straighten the key as much as you can with needle-nose pliers, but be cautious not to apply too much pressure or force, since it could cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also use a bit of WD-40 to grease the lock and then 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 purchase replacement batteries online or in many auto shops, but it's best to check your car's warranty to determine whether this is covered under the terms.
If you can't 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 help in finding the right people to help you solve your issue. You can also contact your dealer, or visit the manufacturer's site to learn more about specific problems with your vehicle.