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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems If it's an ordinary buildup of dirt or more serious, at times car keys can become stuck inside the door lock of your car. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can do at home. If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole, this is a clear sign that the lock is stuck. To resolve this issue it is possible to apply grease to the keyhole. 1. Lubricate the Keyhole The first thing you should try is to lubricate the keyhole. You can try using sprays for lubrication, which you can find at most hardware stores. Spray it into the lock and then push the key into and out several times. This may help unjam the mechanism. If it doesn't work, you may have to call in an expert. Another method of lubricating 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 lubricate the pins in the lock, which could become clogged with debris over time. You can also try to wiggle the mechanism. It may take some time however, it is a good way to get a car lock unjammed. If you have a flashlight or the light from your phone, you can observe the mechanism better. If you feel like you're making progress, keep moving until the locking and unlocking movements feel smooth. If the key does not turn, you might have to disassemble it and clean the mechanism that locks it. This isn't something that's appropriate for the average person but if you're an enthusiast of tinkering, this could be a fun task. You can also buy a specialized lubricant that is specifically 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 an unfrozen or stuck mechanism. You can also try using a modified coat hanger to gain entry into the lock of your vehicle. This method isn't 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an alternative if all other methods fail. If the lock's cylinder is damaged, it could be difficult to open the car door or start the engine. This is a serious issue and requires professional repair or replacement. Make use of your spare key to begin the vehicle until you can replace the broken part. If you don't have a spare key you could try using a jigsaw blade to cut off the damaged piece of the key. 2. Unlock the Door It is crucial to regularly inspect your car door locks and key mechanisms. Cleaning the tumblers of your lock with graphite or silicone sprays can stop debris from clogging them and causing your keys to not turn. Alternately, you could try coating the key with graphite that has been powdered to create an interim lubricant. This will allow the key to move around inside the lock and may work if you have a manual lock instead of an electronic lock. If the key can insert but it doesn't turn it, there's a likely issue with the lock the cylinder, an issue that must be fixed by a professional locksmith. Avoid using forceful entry techniques as they can damage the lock and the door. A long metal rod can also be used to unlock cars. This rod is inserted into the lock. This method is best for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Newer vehicles are more difficult to break in. In certain instances, you can use a wooden wedge or an air wedge to create space between the door and the window. A screwdriver or metal rod can be then inserted into the gap to unlock it. This technique isn't easy to master and does not ensure success, as it is dependent on your vehicle's specific make. In the event of an emergency, you will need to improvise and spend some time. Always keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance companies like AAA provide kits that include a wire hanger and other tools that can be helpful in times of need. Additionally local police or security departments typically have slim jims, which can also be used to unlock the vehicle. Check your auto insurance policy to see if it include roadside assistance and locksmith services. 3. Unlock the ignition If your car key won't engage in the ignition This is often due to a simple issue that can easily be resolved. Before you take the key off first, make sure the vehicle is in Park. To stop theft the steering wheel locks when the key is removed. Sometimes, people turn off the car in a hurry, but forget to turn the key cylinder into Park. This could cause the wheel to lock and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If this occurs, grab the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If G28CarKeys works, you'll be in a position to start your vehicle when the key is unlocked. A foreign object could be inside the key. In your pocket, lint adhesive from tape or even rust corrosion could cause the pins inside the ignition to not align properly. This can also cause the key to not turn when 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 try applying lubrication to the lock mechanism using an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help remove the dirt and grease which can cause a key to become stuck in the ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work, you should contact a locksmith for assistance. If you've got a brand new mechanical key and the ignition isn't turning it could be time to test bumping the cylinder that controls the ignition. This is a relatively easy procedure that involves spraying WD-40 on the key, inserting it into the ignition, and using the handle of a powerful screwdriver to “bump” the key cylinder. This is usually enough to release one or two misaligned wafers within the cylinder that hinder the ignition from turning. If this does not work, you may need to visit an auto repair or mechanic station to obtain a replacement ignition cylinder. 4. Replace the Key Locked out of your car can be a real hassle and you may be left with no alternative but to call a locksmith or repair service to get the lock fixed. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock prior to calling someone. If the key isn't working, it could indicate that the cylinder of the lock has been damaged and needs replacement. You can either replace the cylinder yourself or hire a locksmith. The cost can vary depending on the make and model of your car as well as if you require a transponder or a traditional key. It's possible that your key is worn out. In this situation it's possible that lubricating the hole in your key will aid, but it's more likely that you'll require having your key replaced entirely. You can make a traditional key at the local hardware store for just $10. A transponder key or smart keys will require the services of a locksmith. The key may become bent, causing the lock to jam if you attempt to use the key. To solve this issue you can straighten the key as far as you can using needle-nose pliers, but you must be careful not to apply too much pressure or force, as this can cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also use a little bit of WD-40 to grease the lock and then unjam it. It's also worth noting that, if your keyfob isn't functioning, it may be time to replace the batteries. You can buy replacement batteries online or in most auto shops. However, it's important to verify your vehicle's warranty terms to see if they cover this. If your car isn't starting and you're worried that the ignition switch is stuck, you should first locate the VIN (vehicle identification number) that is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will enable you to contact the right people to get help. If you prefer, you can contact your dealer or check the website of the manufacturer to find out more about your car's particular issues.