This Is The History Of How To Repair Car Key Lock
This Is The History Of How To Repair Car Key Lock
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Whether it is a simple dirt buildup or something more serious, at times keys from your car may be stuck in the lock of your car door. This is a common fix you can do at home.
If you are unable inserting your key into the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock has become jammed. To get it fixed you can apply lubrication to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
The first thing you should try is to lubricate the keyhole. You can use an lubricant spray that is available at many hardware stores. Spray it on the lock and then push the key into and out several times. This may help unjam the mechanism. If it doesn't work it's possible to contact a professional.
You can also grease your lock with graphite powder or spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier to insert and take out. It will also clean and lubricate the pins inside the lock which can become clogged with time. You can also try to wiggle the mechanism. It may take some time but it can usually unjam a car lock. You can see the mechanism more clearly if you use a flashlight, or the light on your phone. If you feel you're making progress, continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking functions feel effortless.
If the key still does not turn, you might have to disassemble the lock and clean the mechanism that locks it. This isn't a job for a common person however if you're an enthusiast of tinkering, this could be an enjoyable project. You can also buy a lubricant specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant is thicker than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective in releasing a stuck 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 work, but it may be an option if the other methods do not work.
If the lock's cylinder has become damaged, it could 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 get the broken part replaced. If you don't have a spare key you can use an jigsaw to cut off the damaged piece of the key.
2. Unlock the door
It is crucial to regularly examine your car door locks and key mechanisms. Cleaning the lock tumblers with silicone or graphite sprays can stop debris from clogging them and causing keys to not turn. You could also try coating the key with graphite powder as an interim lubricant. This will allow the key to jiggle inside the lock and may work if you have an old-fashioned lock instead of an electronic lock.
If the key is able to be inserted, but not turned it is likely there is an issue with the lock cylinder. This is a problem which can only by fixed by a locksmith. It is also important to avoid using forceful entry techniques because this could damage the lock mechanism and the door.
Another way to open the car that is locked is to use a long metal rod that can be put into the lock. This method is best suited to older vehicles that have traditional mechanical locks, as modern cars are designed to be harder to crack.
In certain situations, a wooden wedge or air wedge could be used to create a gap between the window and the door. A screwdriver or metal rod can then be inserted into the gap to make it easier to unlock. This technique requires some skill and is not certain to work as it is dependent on the particular make of the vehicle.
A lot of these strategies require some improvising and time, so you should always have some sort of tool in your vehicle that you can access in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance companies such as AAA provide kits that include wire hooks and other tools. These are helpful in an emergency. Security and police departments in the local area also have slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Review your auto insurance policy to see if it include roadside assistance and locksmith services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
If your car key won't turn on It is usually caused by a minor issue which can be easily solved. First, make mobile car lock repair sure the car is in Park before attempting to remove the key. To stop theft, the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Sometimes, people turn off the vehicle in a hurry and fail to rotate the key cylinder into Park. This can cause the wheel to lock and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If this happens, grab hold of the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you'll be able to start your car as soon as the key unlocks.
Another reason why the car key could become stuck in the ignition is that it may have foreign material in it. In your pocket, lint, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not line up correctly. This can also cause the key not to turn when it is placed into the lock. This can be corrected with cleaning the lock cylinder with compressed air.
You can also try making the lock more lubricated using a silicone-based spray. This will help remove the grease and dirt that could cause a key to get stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant does not work then you can always contact a locksmith in your area to help.
If your ignition doesn't turn even with a new mechanical ignition key, you might need to increase the speed of the ignition cylinder. This is a relatively easy 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 is usually enough to free one or two wax wafers that are not aligned that hinder the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work you, you may need to go to an auto mechanic or a service center and purchase a new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
Being locked out of your car can be a real hassle and you may have no option but to contact a locksmith or repair service to get the lock fixed. But, there are some things you can do prior to calling someone else.
If the key doesn't work it could indicate that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and must be replaced. You can either replace the cylinder by yourself or hire locksmith. The cost will depend on the model and make and whether you need an transponder or traditional keys.
It's possible that your key is simply worn out. In this instance, you may be able to lubricate the keyhole, however it is likely that your key will require replacing. You can make a standard key at a local hardware store for $10. A transponder or smart key will require the services a locksmith.
The key may become bent, causing the lock to jam when you try to use the key. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers to fix the problem. Be careful not to apply excessive force or pressure to cause damage to the lock mechanism. You could also try using WD-40 to lubricate and unjam the lock.
It's important to note that if your keyfob isn't functioning it could be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase replacement batteries online or in most auto shops, but it's worth checking your vehicle's warranty to see whether this is covered by the terms.
If you can't start your car and you believe the ignition switch could be faulty, find the VIN number (vehicle ID number), which you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will be useful in contacting the right people to help you solve your issue. You can also contact your dealer or go to the site of the manufacturer to find out more about specific problems with your vehicle.