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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems It could be a simple buildup of dirt or something more serious, occasionally car keys can get stuck inside the lock of your car door. This is usually a simple fix that you can perform at home. If you are unable to insert your key into the keyhole, it is a clear sign that the lock is blocked. You can fix it by applying the keyhole with lubricant. 1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole Try lubricating the 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 might need to contact an expert to fix it. You can also lubricate your lock with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to insert and remove. This will also lubricate the pins in the lock, which may become clogged with debris as time passes. You may also try wriggling the mechanism. It may take a while, but it can often get a car lock unjammed. If car door lock repair cost uk have an external light source or a flashlight from your phone, you'll be able to see the mechanism better. If you feel like you are making progress keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking actions feel effortless. If the key does not turn, you might have to disassemble the lock and clean the locking mechanism. This isn't something that's appropriate for a common person, but if you are an avid tinkerer, this could be a fun project. You can also purchase an oil specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be more efficient than WD-40 for general use in the release of an unfrozen or stuck mechanism. You can also use an altered wire hanger to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method isn't guaranteed to work, but it may be an option if all the other methods fail. If the lock cylinder has been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or start the car. This is a much more serious problem that requires professional repair or replacement. If you have a spare key you should use this to start the car until you can repair the damaged part. If you don't have a spare key you could try using a jigsaw blade to remove the broken piece of the key. 2. Unlock the Door. It is essential to regularly check 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 your keys to not turn. You could also try coating the key with powdered graphite as a temporary lubricant. This will allow the key to jiggle inside the lock. It could be a viable option if your vehicle has a manual lock instead of an electronic lock. If the key is able to insert but it does not turn the lock, it is likely to be an issue with the lock cylinder, which is a problem that can only be solved 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 method to open a locked car is using a long metal rod that can be put into the lock. This method works best on older cars that have traditional mechanical locks as modern vehicles are designed to be harder to crack. In certain instances a wooden wedge or air wedge can be used to create space in the gap between the window and door. Then either a screwdriver, or a rod of steel can be placed into the gap to unlock the door. This technique requires some skill and cannot be 100% guaranteed to work, since it is dependent on the particular type of vehicle. Many of these methods require some improvisation and time, so you should always have a tool in your vehicle to access in case of an emergency. Roadside assistance services like AAA provide kits that include wire hangers and other tools, and can be helpful in a pinch. In addition local police or security departments typically have slim jims, which can also be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to check your insurance policy as many policies cover roadside assistance or lockout services. 3. Unlock the ignition It is possible to fix a basic problem when your car key won’t turn in the ignition. Before removing the key first, make sure the vehicle is in Park. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to protect against theft. Sometimes people forget to put the key cylinder into Park when they turn off their car. This could cause the wheel to lock and the key to get stuck in the ignition. If this happens, grab the wheel and jiggle it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you will be able to start your vehicle when the key unlocks. A foreign object may be hidden inside the key. In your pocket, lint, tape or corrosion can cause the pins to not align correctly. This can also cause the key not to turn when it is placed into the lock. A quick cleaning with compressed air will usually resolve this. You could also try lubricating the lock mechanism with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help remove the dirt and grease that can frequently cause a car key to get stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant doesn't work it is possible to call an expert locksmith in your area for assistance. If you've purchased a new mechanical key but the ignition still won't turn, it may be time to consider bumping the cylinder that controls the ignition. This is a straightforward procedure that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and then inserting it in a small amount into the ignition. Then using a powerful screwdriver handle, “bump” or “squeeze” the key cylinder. This is usually enough to free one or two misaligned wax wafers that are preventing the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you may require a visit to an auto mechanic or a service station and purchase a new ignition cylinder. 4. Replace the Key You may not have any choice but to contact an expert locksmith to repair the lock. But, there are some things you can do prior to calling someone else. If the key isn't working it could mean that the cylinder in the lock is damaged and must be replaced. You can replace the cylinder yourself, or have a locksmith replace it for you. The cost will vary based on the model and make of your vehicle as well as if you require a transponder or a traditional key. There is also the possibility of having an out-of-date key. In this scenario, you may be able to grease the keyhole, but it's likely that your key will need replacing. You can make a traditional key at the local hardware store for $10. A transponder or smart key will require the services a locksmith. The key could be bent, which can cause the lock to jam if you attempt to use the key. You can straighten the key using needle-nosed pliers to correct the problem. Be careful not to apply excessive force or pressure to cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You could also try using WD-40 to lubricate and open the lock. It's also worth noting that, when your keyfob doesn't work it may be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase batteries online or at most auto shops. It's also important to review the terms of your warranty to see if they cover this. If your car isn't getting started and you're concerned that your ignition switch is stuck, first look for the VIN (vehicle identification number) that is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will be useful in getting in touch with the appropriate people to help solve your issue. You can also reach out to your dealer, or go to the website of the manufacturer to learn more about specific problems with your car.