What Freud Can Teach Us About How To Repair Car Key Lock How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems

Sometimes, keys to cars get stuck in the door lock of your vehicle. It could be a simple buildup or something more serious. Luckily, this is typically an easy fix that you can do at home.

If you cannot insert your key in the keyhole of the lock, it's likely that the lock is been jammed. To get it fixed, you can apply lubrication to the keyhole.

1. Lubricate the Keyhole

The first thing you should try is to grease the keyhole. You can try using an lubricant spray that is available at many hardware stores. Spray it into the lock, and then move the key in and out a few times. This could help loosen the mechanisms. If not, you might have to call an expert to fix it.

You can also lubricate your lock with graphite powder or spray. This will lubricate the mechanism that locks it and make it easier to insert and take out. This will also clean and lubricate the pins inside the lock, which could become clogged with time. Try wiggles on the mechanism. It may take a while, but it can often unlock a car lock. If you're armed with 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 are smooth.

If the key is still not turn, you might need to take it apart and clean the locking mechanism. This is not a job that the average person can do, but it can be a fun project when you're a skilled tinkerer. You can also buy a specialty lubricant that is specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be more effective than WD-40 for general use in releasing the mechanism that is stuck or frozen.

You could also make use of a modified wire hanger in order to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't 100% guaranteed to work, but it may be an option in the event that all the other methods do not work.

If the lock's cylinder has been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or even start the car. This is a more serious problem that requires professional repair or replacement. Make use of your spare key to begin the vehicle until you are able to repair the damaged part. If you don't own a spare key, you could make use of a jigsaw to sever the broken piece of the key.

2. Unlock the door

It is essential to regularly inspect your car's door locks and key mechanism. Cleaning the tumblers of your lock with graphite or silicone sprays can keep debris from blocking them and causing keys to not turn. You could also try coating the key with graphite powder as an interim lubricant. This allows your key to jiggle inside the lock. It might work if you have a manual lock rather than an electronic lock.

If the key can be inserted, but not turned it is most likely that there is an issue with the lock cylinder. This is a situation that can only by fixed by locksmith. It is also important to avoid using forceful entry techniques, as this can damage the lock mechanism and the door.

Another method to open a locked car is using a long metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method is best for older cars with mechanical locks. Newer vehicles are more difficult to break in.

In certain instances, wood wedges or an air wedge can be used to create space in the gap between the window and door. Then either a screwdriver, or a metal rod can be put into the gap to open the door. This method requires some experience and cannot be certain to work as it is dependent on the particular make of the vehicle.

Many of these methods require some improvising and time, so it is important to always have some sort of tool in your vehicle that you can access in case in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance services such as AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers as well as other tools, and are useful in the event of a need. Police and security agencies in your area also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure you check your insurance policy on your vehicle and see if it will cover roadside assistance and lockout services.

3. Unlock the ignition

It's possible to fix a basic problem when your car key isn't turning on in the ignition. Before you remove the key first, make sure the vehicle is in Park. The steering wheel is designed to lock when the key is removed to prevent theft. Some people do not put the key cylinder into Park when they shut off their car. This can cause the wheel to become locked and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If central locking key repair occurs, grab the wheel and jiggle back and forth while turning the key. If it works the key will unlock and you'll be able to start the car.

A foreign object could be in the key. Lint in your pocket, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not line up correctly. This can also cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean using compressed air will usually resolve this.

You can also grease the lock mechanism with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help remove the dirt and grease that can often cause a car key to be stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant isn't working, you can always call an expert locksmith in your area for assistance.

If you have a new mechanical key but the ignition doesn't seem to be turning it could be time to try bumping the cylinder of your ignition. It's a fairly simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it into the ignition, then using the handle of a heavy screwdriver to "bump" the key cylinder. This will usually release two or three wafers that are not aligned in the cylinder that are keeping the ignition from turning. If this isn't working, you might need to visit an auto repair or mechanic station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder.

4. Replace the Key

Being locked out of your vehicle can be a real hassle and you may have no alternative but to call a locksmith or repair service to have the lock repaired. But, there are a few things you can do before calling someone else.


If the key isn't working it could mean that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and must be replaced. You can replace the cylinder on your own, or ask a locksmith to do it for you. The cost will vary based on the make and model of your vehicle and whether you require a transponder key or a conventional key.

It's also possible that your key is worn out. In this situation it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will assist, but it's highly likely that you'll require having your key replaced completely. If you're using a traditional key, you can have one made at your local hardware store for around $10, however a transponder or smart key might require the assistance of a locksmith.

The key can become bent, causing the lock to jam when you try to use the key. You can straighten the key with needle-nosed pliers to fix the issue. Be cautious not to use too much force or pressure to cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also use WD-40 to lubricate and open the lock.

It's worth noting that when your keyfob doesn't work, it may be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase replacement batteries on the internet or at most auto shops, but it's best to check your car's warranty to see whether this is covered by the terms.

If your car isn't starting and you're worried that the ignition switch could be stuck, first look for the VIN (vehicle identification number), which is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will help in contacting the appropriate people to help resolve your issue. You can also reach out to your dealer, or visit the website of the manufacturer to learn more about the specific issues that affect your car.