How To Make An Amazing Instagram Video About How To Repair Car Key Lock
How To Make An Amazing Instagram Video About How To Repair Car Key Lock
Blog Article
How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Sometimes car keys can become stuck in the door lock of your car. It could be a simple buildup or something more serious. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that you can do at home.
If you can't insert your key into the keyhole, this is a clear indication that the lock is stuck. To get it fixed you can apply some lubrication to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing to try is to lubricate the keyhole. You can buy a lubricant from most hardware stores. Spray it on the lock, and then move the key into and out a few times. This could help loosen the lock's mechanisms. If not, you might have to call a professional to fix it.
You can also grease your lock with graphite powder or spray. This will coat the mechanism that locks it and make it easier for you to insert and take out. It will also help to clean and lubricate the pins in the lock which can get clogged as time passes. Try wiggles on the mechanism. It may take some time however, it is a good way to get a car lock unjammed. It is possible to see the mechanism better if you use a flashlight, or the light on your phone. If you feel that you are making progress keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking functions are effortless.
If the key is still not turning, you might need to take it apart and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't something that's appropriate for the average person however if you're a tinkerer, this can be a fun project. You can also buy a lubricant specifically made for locks. This kind of lubricant could be more efficient than WD-40 for general use in releasing a frozen or stuck mechanism.
You could also try using an altered coat hanger made of wire to gain entry to the vehicle's lock. This method isn't certain to work, but could be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail.
If the lock's cylinder is been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a serious problem and requires a professional repair or replacement. If you have a spare key, you can use it to start the vehicle until you are able to get the broken part replaced. If you don't have a spare key, you can try using a jigsaw blade to cut off the damaged piece of the key.
2. Unlock the door
It is essential 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 and causing your key to fail to turn. Alternatively, you can try coating the key with graphite that has been powdered to create a temporary oil. This allows the key to move around inside the lock. It could work if you have an old-fashioned lock instead of an electronic one.
If the key can insert but it doesn't turn, there is likely an issue with the lock the cylinder, an issue that must be fixed by an experienced locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry techniques as they can cause damage to the lock as well as the door.
Another way to unlock a locked car is to use a long metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method is ideal for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into.
In certain instances an air or wooden wedge may be used to create space in the gap between the window and door. Then using a screwdriver or rod of car locks repair metal can be put into the gap to open the door. This method requires some expertise and cannot be certain to work as it is dependent on the particular type of vehicle.
In the event of an emergency, you'll have to improvise and spend some time. It is essential to keep tools in your vehicle. Roadside assistance services like AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers and other tools, and are useful in a pinch. Security and police departments in the local area also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Review your auto insurance policy to see if it cover roadside assistance or lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
If your car key won't turn on This is often caused by a minor issue which can be easily solved. Before you take the key off first, ensure that the vehicle is in Park. To avoid theft, the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Sometimes people forget to place the key cylinder in 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 gently jiggle it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you'll be in a position to start your vehicle when the key unlocks.
Another reason the car key could become stuck in the ignition is that it could have foreign materials inside. Lint from your pocket, adhesive from tape, or even corrosion due to rust can sometimes cause the pins in the ignition to not line up properly. This can also cause the key to not turn once it is inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean with a can of compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You can also try making the lock more lubricated using an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help remove the grease and dirt that often cause a car key to get stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you can call an expert locksmith.
If you have a new mechanical key but the ignition doesn't seem to be turning it's possible to test bumping the cylinder of your ignition. 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 key cylinder. This usually releases two or three wafers that are not aligned within the cylinder that prevent the ignition from turning. If this doesn't help then you may have to visit the mechanic or service station and get an ignition cylinder that is new.
4. Replace the Key
You may not have any choice but to contact an expert locksmith to repair the lock. However, there are a few things you can do prior to calling someone else.
If the key itself isn't working, it could indicate that the cylinder in the lock has been damaged and requires replacement. You can either replace the cylinder by yourself or employ a locksmith. The cost will vary based on the make and model of your car as well as if you require a transponder key or a traditional key.
You could also have an old key. In this situation it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will help, but it's likely that you will need to have your key replaced altogether. You can make a traditional key at a local hardware store for just $10. A transponder key or smart keys will require the services a locksmith.
The key may become bent and cause the lock to jam if you try to use the key. You can straighten the key with needle-nosed pliers in order to fix the issue. Be cautious not to apply excessive force or pressure, as it can damage the mechanism of the lock. You can also use a little bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock and unjam it.
It's also worth noting that, when your keyfob doesn't work it could be time to replace the batteries. You can buy replacement batteries online or at many auto shops, but it's best to check your car's warranty to determine 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, first try to find the VIN (vehicle identification number) which is typically located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will help you contact the right people to get help. Alternatively, you can always contact your dealer or check the website of the manufacturer to learn more about your car's specific problems.