What's Holding Back From The How To Repair Car Key Lock Industry?
What's Holding Back From The How To Repair Car Key Lock Industry?
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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems
Whether it is a simple buildup of dirt or something more serious, occasionally car keys can be stuck in your car door lock. This is usually a simple fix you can do at home.
If you can't insert your key into the keyhole, this is a clear sign that the lock is stuck. To get it fixed, you can apply lubrication to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole
The first thing to try is to grease the keyhole. You can purchase lubricant from most hardware stores. Spray it onto the lock and then push the key into and out a few times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If it's not working, you may have to contact a professional.
You can also grease your lock with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier for you to insert and remove. This will also help to lubricate the pins in the lock, which could get clogged up with debris as time passes. You can also try wriggling the mechanism. It will likely take some time, but it can often unlock a car lock. If you have an external light source or a flashlight from your phone, you can observe the mechanism better. If you feel you're progressing you can continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking functions feel effortless.
If the key is not turning, you may have to disassemble it and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't a job for a common person, but if you are an enthusiast of tinkering, this could be a fun project. You can also buy an oil specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be thicker than general-purpose WD-40 and is more effective at loosening the frozen or stuck mechanism.
You can also try an altered coat hanger made of wire to gain access into the lock of your vehicle. This method isn't certain to work, but could be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail.
If the lock cylinder has been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or even start the car. This is a serious issue that requires a professional repair or replacement. Make use of your spare key to start the vehicle until you are able to replace the damaged part. If you don't have a spare, you can make use of a jigsaw for cutting the broken part of the key.
2. Unlock the Door
It is crucial to regularly check your car's door locks and key mechanism. Regular cleaning using a graphite or silicone spray can help prevent debris from blocking the lock tumblers, cause your key to stop to turn. You could also try coating the key in graphite powder to act as temporary lubricant. This allows the key to move around inside the lock and may work if your car has manual locks instead of an electronic lock.
If the key is able to insert but it isn't turning it, there's a likely issue with the lock cylinder, which is an issue that must be fixed by a professional locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry techniques as they can cause damage to the lock as well as the door.
Another way to unlock the car that is locked is using a long metal rod that can be put into the lock. This method is ideal for older cars that have mechanical locks. Newer vehicles are more difficult to break into.
In some cases, a wooden wedge or air wedge can be used to create space in the gap between the door and window. A rod or screwdriver can be then inserted into the gap to make it easier to unlock. This technique isn't easy to master and doesn't ensure success, as it is dependent on the vehicle's specific make.
In case of emergency, you'll have to come up with a plan and take some time. It is essential to keep tools in your vehicle. Roadside assistance services such as AAA offer kits that contain a wire hanger and other tools, and they are useful in times of need. Local police and security departments also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Review your auto insurance policy as many policies provide roadside assistance or lockout services.
3. Unlock the Ignition
It's click here possible to fix a simple issue if your car's key won’t turn in the ignition. First, make sure the vehicle is in Park before trying to remove the key. To prevent theft the steering wheel locks after the key is removed. Some people do not place the key cylinder in Park when they turn off their vehicle. This could cause the key to get stuck in the ignition, causing the wheel to become locked. If this occurs, grab the wheel and jiggle it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you'll be able to start your vehicle as soon as the key is unlocked.
A foreign object may be in the key. The lint in your pocket or tape, or corrosion could cause the pins to not line up correctly. This can also cause the key to not turn when inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean using compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You can also grease the lock mechanism by spraying it with a silicone-based spray. This will help to remove grease and dirt that can cause a key to get stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant isn't working then you can always contact a locksmith in your area to help.
If you've got a brand new mechanical key and the ignition isn't turning, it may be time to try bumping the cylinder that controls the ignition. It's a simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it partway into the ignition, then using the handle of a powerful screwdriver to "bump" the key cylinder. This will usually free up one or two wax wafers that are not aligned that block the ignition from turning. If this isn't working, you might require a visit to an auto repair or mechanic station and get a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
You might not have a other option but to call a locksmith to fix the lock. However, there are some things you can do before calling someone else.
If the key does not work it could be an indication that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and must be replaced. You can replace the cylinder yourself or ask a locksmith to replace it for you. The cost will depend on your car's make and model, as well whether you require an transponder or traditional keys.
It's possible that your key is worn out. In this situation you could try lubricating your keyhole to aid, but it's more likely that you'll require having your key replaced altogether. If you're using an old-fashioned key, you can get one made at the local hardware store for about $10, however smart keys or transponders may require the services of locksmith.
A common problem is that the key itself is bent, which can cause the lock stop working when you attempt to use it. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers to fix the issue. Be cautious not to apply excessive force or pressure to cause damage to the lock mechanism. You can also apply a small amount of WD-40 to grease the lock and then unjam it.
It's also worth noting that the key fob you've purchased isn't working, it might simply be time to replace the battery. You can purchase replacement batteries online or at most auto shops. However, it's important to verify the terms of your warranty to see if they include this.
If you can't start your car, and you believe the ignition switch could be stuck, try to find the VIN number (vehicle ID number) that you'll find on the dashboard of the driver. This will help in contacting the appropriate people to help solve your problem. Alternatively, you can always contact your dealer or check the manufacturer's website to learn more about your car's specific issues.