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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems Whether it is a simple buildup of dirt or more serious, sometimes keys from your car may get stuck inside the door lock of your car. This is usually a simple fix that you can carry out at home. If you cannot insert your key in the keyhole of the lock, it is likely that the lock is been jammed. To get it fixed it is possible to apply grease to the keyhole. 1. Lubricate the Keyhole You can try lubricating your keyhole. You can buy a lubricant in most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray into the lock, and then turn the key a few times. This could help loosen the lock's mechanisms. If it doesn't work, you may have to get an expert. You can also grease your lock with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will lubricate the locking mechanism and make it easier to insert and remove. It will also help to clean and lubricate the pins inside the lock that can become blocked as time passes. You can also try wriggling the mechanism. It may take a while however, it is a good way to get a car lock unjammed. If you have a flashlight or the light from your phone, you'll be able to see the mechanism better. If you feel like you're making progress, continue to jiggle until the locking and unlocking actions are smooth. If the key is still not turning, you might require to disassemble the lock and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't something that the average person can do, but it can be a great project when you're a skilled tinkerer. You can also buy a lubricant that is specifically designed for locks. This kind of lubricant could be more effective than WD-40 for general use in releasing an unfrozen or stuck mechanism. You could also try using a modified wire coat hanger to gain entry to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't 100% guaranteed to be successful, but it might be an option in the event that all other methods are unsuccessful. If the lock's cylinder has become damaged, it might be difficult to open the door of your car or start the engine. This is a serious issue and requires professional repair or replacement. If you have a spare key, you can use it to start the vehicle until you are able to get the broken part replaced. If you don't have a spare key you could try using the jigsaw blade to remove the broken piece of the key. 2. Unlock the door It is crucial to regularly check the door locks and key mechanism. Cleaning the tumblers of your lock with silicone or graphite sprays will prevent debris from blocking them and causing keys to not turn. Alternately, you could try coating the key with graphite powdered to create an indefinite oil. This will allow the key to jiggle inside the lock. It might work if you have a manual lock rather than an electronic lock. If the key is able to be inserted, but not turned it is most likely that there is a problem with the lock cylinder. This is a problem which can only be fixed by a locksmith. It is also important to avoid using forceful entry techniques, since this could cause damage to the lock mechanism and the door. Another way to open a locked car is using a long metal rod that can be put into the lock. This method is suitable for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Newer vehicles are more difficult to break in. In certain situations, you can use a wooden wedge or an air wedge to create a space between the window and the door. Then, a screwdriver or a rod of metal can be put into the gap to unlock the door. This technique isn't easy to master and does not ensure success, as it is dependent on your vehicle's particular model. In an emergency, you'll need to come up with a plan and take some time. Always keep tools in your vehicle. Roadside assistance services such as AAA offer kits that contain wire hangers as well as other tools, and they are useful in times of need. Security and police departments in the local area also carry jims with slim sizes that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure you check your insurance policy for autos for any policies that provide roadside assistance and locksmith services. 3. Unlock the Ignition If your car key won't engage in the ignition It is usually due to a simple problem which can be easily solved. First, ensure that the car is in Park before trying to remove the key. To stop theft, the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Sometimes, people turn off the car in a hurry, but forget to rotate the key cylinder to Park. This can result in the key becoming stuck in the ignition and the wheel to lock. If central locking key repair occurs take the wheel and move it around while turning the key. If it works, you will be able to start your vehicle 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, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not align correctly. This can cause the key not to turn when it is put into the lock. This can be fixed with a quick cleaning using compressed air. You could also try making the lock more lubricated using an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help remove the grease and dirt that could cause a key to get stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you should contact an expert locksmith. If your ignition isn't turning even with a new mechanical ignition key, you may want to bump the ignition cylinder. This is a simple procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and then inserting it partially into the ignition. Then using a powerful screwdriver handle, “bump” or “squeeze” the cylinder of the key. 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 to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder. 4. Replace the Key You may not have any alternative but to call locksmiths to fix the lock. There are a few things that you can do to fix the lock before calling a locksmith. If the key does not work it could be an indication that the lock cylinder is damaged and needs to be replaced. You can replace the cylinder yourself, or ask a locksmith to take it off for you. The cost will vary based on the model and make of your car, as well as whether you require a transponder or a traditional key. You may also have an out-of-date key. In this scenario you might be able to oil the keyhole, but it is likely that your key will need replacement. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can get one made at the local hardware store for about $10, however the transponder or smart keys may require the services of a locksmith. The most frequent issue is that the key becomes bent, and this can cause the lock jam when you try to use it. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers in order to fix the issue. Be careful not to use excessive force or pressure to cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also use a small amount of WD-40 to grease the lock and then unjam it. It's worth noting that when your keyfob doesn't work it may be time to replace the batteries. You can buy batteries online or at many auto shops. But, it's essential to verify your vehicle's warranty terms to determine if they cover this. If your car isn't getting started and you're concerned that the ignition switch might be stuck, first try to find the VIN (vehicle identification number) which is typically located on the driver's side dashboard. This will help in finding the right people to help you resolve your issue. Alternatively, you can always contact your dealer or check the website of the manufacturer to learn more about your car's particular problems.