What Freud Can Teach Us About How To Repair Car Key Lock
How to Repair Car Key Lock ProblemsSometimes, keys for cars can get stuck in your car's door lock. It could be a simple buildup, or something more serious. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that you can fix at home.
If you are unable inserting your key into the keyhole of the lock, it is likely that the lock is become jammed. To resolve this issue, you can apply lubrication to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
Try lubricating the keyhole. You can purchase lubricant in the majority of hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, then turn the key a few times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If this doesn't work then you might need to call in a professional.
You can also lubricate your lock with graphite powder or spray. This will coat the locking mechanism and make it easier for you to insert and take out. This will also lubricate the pins in the lock, which may get clogged up with debris over time. You can also try to wiggle the mechanism. It could take a while but it is a good way to unlock a car lock. You can observe the mechanism better by using a flashlight, or the light on your phone. If it appears that you're making progress, continue moving the lever until the locking and unlocking actions appear smooth.
If the key is not turning, you may need to take it apart and clean the lock mechanism. This is not a job that the average person can do, but it can be a fun project for those who love to tinker. You can also purchase a lubricant specifically made for locks. This type of lubricant may be more effective than WD-40 for general use when it comes to releasing the mechanism that is stuck or frozen.
You can also try an altered coat hanger made of wire to gain entry into the lock of your vehicle. This method isn't guaranteed to work, but it may be an option if all the other methods do not work.
If the lock's cylinder is broken, it may be impossible to open the car door or start the engine. This is a serious problem and requires a professional repair or replacement. Use your spare key to start the vehicle until you are able to replace the damaged piece. If you don't own a spare, you can make use of a jigsaw for cutting the damaged part of the key.
2. Lock 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 can keep debris from blocking them and causing your keys to not turn. Alternately, you could try coating the key with powdered graphite to create an indefinite fluid. This will allow the key to move within the lock. It may be a viable option if your vehicle has manual locks instead of an electronic lock.
If the key can insert but it does not turn, there is likely an issue with the lock's cylinder, an issue that must be solved by a professional locksmith. It is also essential to avoid making use of forceful entry techniques because this could damage the lock mechanism and 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 ideal for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into.
In some cases you could car lock system repair use a wedge made of wood or an air wedge to create space between the window and the door. Then, a screwdriver or a rod of metal can be placed into the gap to unlock the door. This technique is difficult to master and does not guarantee success, since it depends on your vehicle's particular model.
A lot of these techniques require some improvising and time, so it is important to always have a tool in your vehicle to gain access in case of an emergency. Roadside assistance companies like AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers and other tools, and can be helpful in times of need. Additionally, local security or police departments usually have small jims that can also be used to open the vehicle. Be sure to check your insurance policy for autos, as many policies will provide roadside assistance and lockout services.
3. Unlock the ignition
If your car key won't turn in the ignition It is usually due to a simple issue that can easily be resolved. Before you remove the key, first make sure that the vehicle is in Park. The steering wheel is designed to lock when the key is removed to protect against theft. Sometimes, people shut off the vehicle in a hurry and forget to rotate the key cylinder into Park. This could result in the key becoming stuck in the ignition and the wheel to stop. If this occurs take the wheel and jiggle it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you'll be in a position to start your vehicle as soon as the key is unlocked.
A foreign object could be inside the key. The lint in your pocket or on the tape can cause the pins to not align properly. This will also cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean using compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You can also try applying lubrication to the lock mechanism using a silicone-based spray. This will help to remove grease and dirt that could cause a key to get stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant does not work, you can contact a locksmith for assistance.
If your ignition doesn't turn even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you may 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 into the ignition, and using the handle of a heavy screwdriver to "bump" the cylinder of the key. This usually releases one or two wax wafers that are misaligned that hinder the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may need to visit a mechanic or car servicing station and purchase a new ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
You may not have any alternative but to call a locksmith to fix the lock. There are a few things that you can do to fix the lock prior to calling someone.
If the key itself isn't working, this could be a sign that the cylinder of the lock has been damaged and requires replacing. You can replace the cylinder by yourself or employ a locksmith. The cost can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle and whether you need a transponder key or a traditional key.
You could also have an out-of-date key. In this case, lubricating the keyhole might aid, but it's more likely that you will require your key replaced entirely. You can create a traditional key at your local hardware shop for $10. A transponder key or smart key will require the services a locksmith.
The most frequent issue is that the key itself gets bent, and this can cause the lock jam when you try to use it. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers to fix the issue. Be cautious not to apply too much force or pressure, as it can damage the mechanism of the lock. You can also apply a bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock, and then release it.
It's also worth noting that when your key fob doesn't seem to be functioning, it could be time to replace the battery. You can purchase replacement batteries on the internet or at the majority of auto shops, however it's a good idea to check your vehicle's warranty to determine whether this is covered by the terms.
If you're unable to start your car and think that the ignition switch might be stuck, locate the VIN number (vehicle ID number) located on the dashboard of the driver. This will enable you to find the right people for assistance. If you prefer, you can call your dealer or visit the website of the manufacturer to learn more about your car's specific issues.