What Will How To Repair Car Key Lock Be Like In 100 Years?
What Will How To Repair Car Key Lock Be Like In 100 Years?
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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 an easy fix you can fix at home.
If you can't insert your key into the keyhole, this is a clear sign that the lock is jammed. You can fix it by applying an oil-based lubricant to the keyhole.
1. Lubricate the Keyhole
You can try lubricating your keyhole. You can buy a oil lubricant at the majority of hardware stores. Spray it on the lock, and then move the key into and out several times. This could help loosen the mechanism. If it doesn't, you might need to contact a professional to fix it.
Another way to lubricate the lock is to use powdered graphite or a graphite spray. This will lubricate the locking mechanism and make it easier to insert and remove. It will also clean and lubricate the pins in the lock which can become clogged over time. You can also try to wiggle the mechanism. It might take some time but this method can often unlock a car lock. If you have a flashlight or the light from your phone, you will be able to see the mechanism more clearly. If you feel that you're progressing you can continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking functions are smooth.
If the key is still not turning, you may have to disassemble it and clean the mechanism of the lock. This isn't a task that the average person can do, but it can be a great project if you're a tinkerer. You can also purchase a specialized lubricant that is specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant may be more efficient than WD-40 for general use when it comes to releasing a frozen or stuck mechanism.
You can also try using an altered coat hanger made of wire to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't guaranteed to work, but it could be an option if the other methods are unsuccessful.
If the lock's cylinder is been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a serious problem and requires professional repair or replacement. Make use of your spare key to start the car until you are able to replace the damaged part. If you don't have a spare key you can try using a jigsaw blade to cut off the damaged piece of the key.
2. Unlock the Door
It is essential to regularly inspect your car door locks and key mechanisms. Cleaning the lock tumblers with silicone or graphite sprays can keep debris from blocking them, causing keys to not turn. You could also try coating the key in graphite powder to act as a temporary lubricant. This will allow your key to move around in the lock. It may be a good idea if you have a manual lock, rather than an electronic lock.
If the key can insert but it does not turn, there is likely an issue with the lock's cylinder, an issue that can only be fixed by a professional locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry methods because they could cause damage to the lock and door.
Another method to open a locked car is to use a long, metal rod that can be placed inside the lock. This method is ideal for older cars that have mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into.
In some cases you can employ a wedge of wood or an air wedge to create a space between the window and the door. A screwdriver or metal rod can be then inserted into the gap to make it easier to unlock. This method requires some expertise and is not 100% guaranteed to work, since it is dependent on the particular make of the vehicle.
Many of these methods require some improvisation and time, so it is important to always have some sort of tool in your vehicle to gain access in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance services such as AAA provide kits that include wire hangers as well as other tools that can be useful in times of need. Security and police departments in the local area also have slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to verify your auto insurance policy for any policies that provide roadside assistance and locksmith services.
3. Unlock the ignition
It's possible to fix a basic problem when your car key isn't turning in the ignition. First, ensure that the vehicle is in Park before trying to remove the key. To stop theft, the steering wheel locks after the key is removed. Sometimes, people shut off the vehicle in a hurry and fail to rotate the key cylinder into Park. This can cause the key to get stuck in the ignition and the wheel to lock. If this occurs, grab the wheel and gently jiggle it around while turning the key. If it works, you will be able to start your car as soon as the key unlocks.
Another reason why keys for cars can get stuck in the ignition is because it may have foreign matter inside. In your pocket, lint, adhesive from tape, or even rust corrosion can cause the pins inside the ignition to not align correctly. This will also cause the key to not turn once it is inserted into the lock cylinder. A quick clean with a can of compressed air is usually enough to fix this.
You can also grease the lock mechanism using a silicone-based spray. This will help clean the dirt and grease that can frequently cause a car key to get stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you can call a locksmith for assistance.
If your ignition won't turn even after replacing the mechanical ignition key, you may want to bump the ignition cylinder. It's a fairly simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it into the ignition, and using the handle of a large screwdriver to "bump" the key cylinder. This is usually enough to release one or two misaligned wafers in the cylinder that hinder the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may require a visit to a mechanic or car servicing station and get a replacement ignition cylinder.
4. Replace the Key
You may not have any choice but to contact a locksmith to fix the lock. However, there are a few things you can do before calling someone else.
If the key isn't working, this could indicate that the lock cylinder has been damaged and requires replacement. You can replace the cylinder yourself or have a locksmith do it for you. The cost will differ based on the car's make and model, as well whether you need a transponder or a traditional key.
It's also possible that your key is simply worn out. In this case you might be able to grease the keyhole, but it is likely that your key will need replacing. If you're using a traditional key, you can have one made at your local hardware store for $10, but the transponder or smart keys might require the assistance of a locksmith.
The key could be bent, causing the lock to jam if you try to use the key. To solve this issue try to straighten the key as far as you can with needle-nose pliers, but you must be careful not to apply too much pressure or force, since it could cause damage to the lock car lock repair cost mechanism. You can also use a little bit of WD-40 to lubricate the lock and unjam it.
It's also worth noting that if your key fob isn't working, it might simply be time to replace the battery. It is possible to purchase replacement batteries online or at most auto shops, but it's worth checking your vehicle's warranty to see whether this is covered under the conditions.
If you're unable to start your car and you think that the ignition switch might be stuck, find the VIN (vehicle ID number) located on the dashboard of the driver. This will help in finding the appropriate people to help resolve your issue. You can also contact your dealer or go to the site of the manufacturer to find out more about the specific issues that affect your car.