How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems

If it's the result of a simple buildup of dirt or something more serious, sometimes keys to your car can become stuck inside your car door lock. Luckily, this is an easy fix you can fix at home.

If you are unable inserting your key into the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock is 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 try using sprays for lubrication, which you can find at most hardware stores. Spray it into the lock and then work the key into and out several times. This could help loosen the lock's mechanisms. If it doesn't work, you may need to call a professional to fix it.

You can also lubricate your lock using 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 be clogged by debris over time. You might also try to move the mechanism. This will probably take a while, but it can often help to unblock a car lock. You can see the mechanism more clearly by using a flashlight, or the flash on your phone. If you feel you are making progress you can continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking actions feel smooth.

If the key is not turning, you might have to disassemble it and clean the mechanism of the lock. This is not a job that anyone can do, but it can be a great project when you're a skilled tinkerer. You can also buy an oil specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be more efficient than WD-40 for general use when it comes to releasing a frozen or stuck mechanism.

You could also make use of a modified wire hanger to gain access to the vehicle lock. 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 difficult to open the door or start the vehicle. This is a serious issue and requires a professional repair or replacing. If you have a spare key, you should use this to start the vehicle until you are able to get the broken part replaced. If you don't have a spare key, you could try using a jigsaw blade to cut off the damaged piece of the key.

2. Unlock the Door.

It is important that you regularly check your car's door locks and key mechanism. Regular cleaning with graphite or a silicone spray can help prevent debris from clogging the lock tumblers, causing your key to fail to turn. You could also try coating the key in powdered graphite to act as temporary lubricant. This will allow your key to jiggle within the lock. It might be a good idea if you have an old-fashioned lock instead of an electronic lock.

If the key cannot be inserted, but it is not turning it is most likely that there is a problem with the cylinder for the lock. This is a situation that can only by fixed by a locksmith. It is also essential to avoid using forceful entry techniques because this could damage the lock mechanism as well as the door.

A long rod of iron can also be used to unlock cars. This rod is put into the lock. This method is suitable for older cars that have mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into.

In some cases, wood wedges or an air wedge may be used to create space in the gap between the door and window. Then using a screwdriver or metal rod can be put into the gap to unlock the door. This technique requires some skill and is not guaranteed to work, as it is dependent on the particular make of the vehicle.

In an emergency, you will need to think of a solution and spend some time. Always keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance organizations like AAA offer kits that contain wire hooks and other tools. These can be very helpful in an emergency. Additionally, local security or police departments typically have small jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Review your auto website insurance policy, as many policies include roadside assistance and lockout services.

3. Unlock the ignition

It is possible to fix a basic issue if your car's key isn't turning in the ignition. First, ensure that your vehicle is in Park before trying to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when the key is removed to prevent theft. Many people fail to place the key cylinder in Park when they shut off their vehicle. This could cause the wheel to lock and the key to become stuck in the ignition. If this occurs, grab the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works the key will unlock and you'll be able to start your car.

Another reason why a car key can become stuck in the ignition is because it may have foreign material in it. The lint in your pocket or tape adhesive or even corrosion from rust could cause the pins in the ignition to not line up correctly. This will also cause the key to not turn when inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean with compressed air will usually resolve this.

You could also try making the lock more lubricated using an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help to remove grease and dirt that often cause a car keys to be stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant isn't working it is possible to call a local locksmith for help.

If your ignition doesn't turn even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you may be able to boost the ignition cylinder. This is a simple process that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and then inserting it in a small amount into the ignition. Then, using a heavy screwdriver handle, "bump" or "squeeze" the key cylinder. This is usually enough to free one or two wax wafers that are not aligned that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this isn't working, you might need to visit a mechanic or car servicing station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder.

4. Replace the Key

Being locked out of your car can be a nightmare and you may be left with no choice but to call a locksmith or a repair service to have the lock fixed. But, there are a few things you can do before calling someone else.

If the key isn't working properly, this could indicate that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and requires replacement. You can either replace the cylinder by yourself or employ locksmith. The cost will vary depending on the make and model, as well whether you need an transponder or traditional keys.

It's also possible that your key is simply worn out. In this situation you could try lubricating your keyhole to help, but it's likely that you will need to have your key replaced altogether. If you have a traditional key, you can have one made at the local hardware store for $10, but the transponder or smart keys may require the services of a locksmith.

A common problem is that the key becomes bent, and this could cause the lock to jam when you try to use it. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers in order to fix the problem. Be careful not to apply too much force or pressure in order to damage the mechanism of the lock. You can also use WD-40 to lubricate and unjam the lock.

Also, it's important to note that the key fob you've purchased isn't working, it might simply be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries on the internet or at many auto shops, but it's worth checking your vehicle's warranty to determine whether this is covered under the conditions.

If your car won't start and you're concerned that the ignition switch might be stuck, you must first try to find the VIN (vehicle identification number), which is usually located on the driver's dashboard. This will allow you to find the right people to get help. Alternatively, you can always contact your dealer or check the website of the manufacturer to find out more about the specifics of your car's problems.