How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems Sometimes, keys to cars get stuck in your car's door lock. It could be a simple buildup, or something more serious. This is a common fix that you can carry out at home. If you're unable to insert your key into the keyhole, this is a clear sign that the lock is stuck. To resolve this issue it is possible to apply some lubrication to the keyhole. 1. Lubricate the Keyhole The first thing to try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can use a lubricant spray, which you can purchase at most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, and then turn the key a few times. This can help unblock the mechanism. If it doesn't work, you might have to call a professional to fix it. Another method of lubricating the lock is to apply powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This will coat the lock and make it easier to remove and insert. It will also lubricate the pins within the lock, which could be clogged by debris over time. You can also try wiggling the mechanism. It may take some time but this method can often unlock the lock on a car. You can observe the mechanism better if you use a flashlight, or the flash on your phone. If you feel like you're progressing, keep moving until the locking and unlocking movements appear smooth. If the key still does not turn, you may have to disassemble it and clean the locking mechanism. This isn't a job for a common person but if you're an enthusiast of tinkering, this could be a fun task. You can also buy a specialty lubricant specially designed for locks. This type of lubricant is more robust than the general-purpose WD-40 and is more effective in loosening an impervious or frozen mechanism. You can also make use of a modified wire hanger in order to gain access to the vehicle lock. This method is not certain to work, but could be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail. If the lock's cylinder has been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or even start the car. This is a serious issue that requires repair or replacement by a professional. Use www.g28carkeys.co.uk to start the car until you can 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 essential to regularly inspect your car's door locks and key mechanism. Regular cleaning with graphite or a silicone spray can stop debris from blocking the tumblers of your lock and making your key unable to turn. You could also try coating the key in graphite powder to act as an interim lubricant. This will allow your key to move inside the lock. It might be a good idea if you have a manual lock rather than an electronic lock. If the key cannot be inserted, but it is not turning it is likely there is a problem with the cylinder for the lock. This is a problem that can only by fixed by locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry methods since they can cause damage to the lock as well as the door. Another way to open a locked car is to use a long metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method is suitable for older cars that have mechanical locks. Newer vehicles are more difficult to break in. In certain situations a wooden wedge or air wedge could be used to create space in the 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 method isn't easy to master and doesn't ensure success, as it is dependent on the vehicle's specific make. Many of these methods require some improvisation and time, so you should always have some sort of tool in your vehicle that you can access in the event in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance companies like AAA offer kits that contain wire hooks as well as other tools. These can be very helpful in an emergency. Local police and security departments also carry jims with slim sizes that can be used to unlock vehicles. Be sure to check your insurance policy on your vehicle for any policies that include roadside assistance as well as locksmith services. 3. Unlock the Ignition It's possible to fix a basic problem when your car key isn't turning on in the ignition. First, make sure your vehicle is in Park before trying to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to prevent theft. Some people do not put the key cylinder in Park when they shut off their car. This can cause the key to get stuck in the ignition and the wheel to lock. If this happens, grab hold of the wheel and jiggle back and forth as you turn the key. If it works the key will unlock and you'll be able to start the car. A foreign object could be hidden inside the key. The lint in your pocket or tape adhesive or even corrosion from rust can sometimes cause the pins inside the ignition to not align properly. This will also cause the key to not turn when inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean using a can of compressed air can usually fix this. You can also try applying lubrication to the lock mechanism using a silicone-based spray. This will help remove the dirt and grease that can often cause a car keys to be stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant isn't working then you can always contact a locksmith in your area to help. If you've purchased a new mechanical key but the ignition isn't turning it's possible to test bumping the ignition cylinder. This is a relatively easy procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it into the ignition, and then using the handle of a powerful screwdriver to bump the cylinder of the key. This will usually release two or three misaligned wafers in the cylinder that are keeping the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work then you may have to visit a mechanic or car service station to purchase an entirely new ignition cylinder. 4. Replace the Key Locked out of your car can be a major hassle and you might have no alternative but to call a locksmith or repair service to get the lock fixed. However, there are some things you can do before calling someone else. If the lock itself isn't working, it could be a sign that the cylinder of the lock has been damaged and requires replacement. You can either replace the cylinder yourself or hire locksmith. The cost can differ based on the make and model of your car as well as if you need a transponder key or a conventional key. There is also the possibility of having a worn-out key. In this instance, you may be able to oil the keyhole, but it's likely that your key will need replacing. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can get one made at the local hardware store for about $10, however smart keys or transponders might require the assistance of a locksmith. The most frequent issue is that the key is bent, which can cause the lock to jam when you try to use it. To resolve this issue try to straighten the key as far as possible with needle-nose pliers, but you must be cautious not to apply too much pressure or force, as it could cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You could also try using WD-40 to grease and unblock the lock. Also, it's important to note that when your key fob doesn't seem to be working, it might simply be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries online or at most auto shops. However, it's important to review your vehicle's warranty terms to see if they include this. If your car isn't getting started and you're concerned that your ignition switch is stuck, first look for the VIN (vehicle identification number), which is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will enable you to locate the right person for assistance. You can also reach out to your dealer or go to the site of the manufacturer to find out more about the specific issues that affect your car.
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