Three Reasons Why Three Reasons Your How To Repair Car Key Lock Is Broken (And How To Repair It) How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems

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

If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole, it is a clear sign that the lock is stuck. It is possible to fix this by applying the keyhole with lubricant.

1. Lubricate the Keyhole

The first thing you can try is to apply lubrication to the keyhole. You can try using an lubricant spray that you can purchase at most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray on the lock, and then turn the key a few times. This can help unblock the lock's mechanisms. If it doesn't work then you might need to get a professional.

Another way to lubricate the lock is to apply powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This will coat the lock and make it easier to remove and insert. This will also help to clean and lubricate the pins in the lock, which could become clogged as time passes. You may also try wriggling the mechanism. It may take some time but it is a good way to unlock the lock on a car. If you have an external light source or a flashlight from your phone, you can see the mechanism more clearly. If you feel that you're progressing, continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking movements appear effortless.

If the key is not turning, you might have to disassemble it and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't an easy task for everyone but if you're an enthusiast of tinkering, this could be an enjoyable project. You can also purchase a lubricant specifically made for locks. This type of lubricant can be heavier than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective in releasing the frozen or stuck mechanism.

You can also use an altered wire hanger to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. 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 is been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or start the vehicle. This is a serious issue and requires a professional repair or replacing. Use your spare key to start the vehicle until you can repair the damaged part. If you don't have a spare key you can try using a jigsaw blade to cut off the broken piece 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 silicone spray or graphite spray can prevent debris from blocking the tumblers of your lock and causing your key to fail to turn. Alternatively, you can try coating the key with graphite powdered to create an indefinite oil. This will allow the key to jiggle inside the lock. It could work if your car has manual locks instead of an electronic one.

If the key is able to be inserted but it isn't turning it, there's a likely issue with the lock's cylinder, which is a problem that can only be addressed by an experienced locksmith. It is also important to avoid using forceful entry techniques, because this could damage the lock mechanism as well as the door.

Another way to open a locked car is using a long metal rod that can be put into the lock. This method works best on older vehicles that have traditional mechanical locks as newer vehicles are designed to be harder to break into.

In some cases, you can use a wedge made of wood or an air wedge to create space between the window and the door. Then using a screwdriver or rod of metal can be put into the gap to open the door. This method isn't easy to master and does not guarantee success, as it is dependent on your car's make and model.

Many of these methods require some improvising and time, so it is important to always have a tool in your vehicle to access in case of an emergency. Roadside assistance services like AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers as well as other tools that can be useful in a pinch. Security and police departments in the local area also carry jims with slim sizes that can be used to unlock vehicles. Check your auto insurance policy to see if it provide roadside assistance or lockout services.

3. Unlock the Ignition


It is possible to fix a minor issue if your car's key won’t turn in the ignition. Before you remove the key first, make sure the vehicle is in Park. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to stop theft. Many people fail to place the key cylinder in Park when they turn off their car. This can cause the key to get stuck in the ignition, causing the wheel to become locked. If this happens, grab hold of the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, the key will soon open and you will be able to drive.

Another reason the car key could become stuck in the ignition is that it could have foreign materials inside. In your pocket, lint, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not align correctly. This will also cause the key to not turn when inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick cleaning with compressed air will usually resolve this.

You can also lubricate the lock mechanism with a silicone-based spray. This will help to remove grease and dirt that can cause a key to become stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work, you can contact a locksmith to help.

If your ignition doesn't turn even with a new mechanical ignition key, you might be able to boost the ignition cylinder. It's a simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it partway into the ignition, and using the handle of a heavy screwdriver to "bump" the key cylinder. This usually releases one or two misaligned wax wafers that block the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work then you may have to visit an auto mechanic or a service center and purchase an ignition cylinder that is new.

4. Replace the Key

You might not have a alternative but to call an expert locksmith to repair the lock. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock before calling a locksmith.

If the lock itself isn't working, it could be a sign that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and requires replacing. You can replace the cylinder by yourself or hire a locksmith. The cost will depend on the car's model and make, as well whether you need an transponder or traditional keys.

It's possible that your key is simply worn out. In this case it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will aid, but it's more likely that you'll need to have your key replaced completely. You can make a standard key at your local hardware shop for $10. A transponder key or smart key will require the services a locksmith.

A common problem is that the key becomes bent, and this could cause the lock to stop working when you attempt to use it. To solve lock replacement near me , you can try to straighten the key as much as you can with needle-nose pliers. However, be careful not to apply excessive pressure or force, as this could damage the lock mechanism. You could also try using WD-40 to lubricate and open the lock.

It's worth noting that if your keyfob isn't functioning it may be time to replace the batteries. It is possible to purchase replacement batteries online or in most auto shops, but it's worth checking your vehicle's warranty to see whether this is covered under the terms.

If your car won't start and you're concerned that your ignition switch could be stuck, you should first locate the VIN (vehicle identification number) that is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will help in contacting the appropriate individuals to help resolve your issue. You can also reach out to your dealer or go to the website of the manufacturer to learn more about the specific issues that affect your car.