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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems Sometimes, keys for cars can get stuck in your car's door lock. It could be a simple buildup or something more serious. This is a common 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 jammed. To fix this you can apply some lubrication to the keyhole. 1. Lubricate the Keyhole Keyhole You can try lubricating your keyhole. You can use a lubricant spray, which you can find at most hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray on the lock, then turn the key several times. This can help unblock the mechanism. If it doesn't work, you might have to call an expert to fix it. Another method of lubricating the lock is to use powdered graphite or a graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to insert and remove. This will also help to clean and lubricate the pins in the lock which can become blocked over time. You can also try wiggling the mechanism. It might take some time but this method can often unlock a car lock. If you're using a flashlight or the light from your phone, you will be able to see the mechanism more clearly. If you feel like you're progressing, keep jiggling until the locking and unlocking functions seem smooth. If the key does not turn, you may have to disassemble it and clean the mechanism that locks it. This isn't something that's appropriate for a common person, but if you are a tinkerer, this can be an enjoyable project. You can also buy a specialty lubricant designed for locks. This kind of lubricant is heavier than general-purpose WD-40 and can be more effective at loosening the frozen or stuck mechanism. You can also try a modified wire coat hanger to gain access into the lock of your vehicle. This method isn't certain to work, but could be an alternative if all other methods fail. If the lock's cylinder has been damaged, it could be difficult to open the door or start the vehicle. This is a much more serious issue that 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, you can use a jigsaw to cut the damaged part of the key. 2. Unlock the door It is crucial to regularly check the locks on your car's door and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning using a graphite or silicone spray can stop debris from clogging the tumblers of your lock and causing your key to fail to turn. You could also try coating the key with graphite powder to act as a temporary lubricant. This will allow the key to move around in the lock. It might be a good idea if you have a manual lock rather than an electronic lock. If the key can be inserted but not turned it is likely there is a problem with the cylinder of the lock. This is a problem which can only by fixed by a locksmith. It is also essential to avoid using forceful entry techniques, because this could damage the lock mechanism and door. A long metal rod can also be used to unlock a car. This rod is inserted into the lock. This method is suitable for older vehicles with mechanical locks. Newer cars are more difficult to break into. In certain situations wood wedges or an air wedge may be used to create a gap between the window and the door. A rod or screwdriver can then be inserted into the gap to make it easier to unlock. This method requires some expertise and is not certain to work as it is dependent on the particular model of the vehicle. In an emergency, you will need to come up with a plan and take some time. You should always keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance companies like AAA offer kits that contain wire hooks and other tools. These are useful in the event of an emergency. Local police and security departments also carry slim jims that can be used to unlock vehicles. Make sure to check your insurance policy, as many policies cover roadside assistance or locksmith services. 3. Unlock the ignition It is possible to fix a minor problem if your car key won’t turn in the ignition. First, make sure your vehicle is in Park before trying to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when the key is removed to protect against theft. Sometimes, people shut 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 become stuck in the ignition. If this occurs, grab the wheel and move it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you will be able to start your car as soon as the key unlocks. Another reason why the car key could become stuck in the ignition is because it may have foreign matter inside. Lint from your pocket, adhesive from tape, or even corrosion due to rust can cause the pins inside the ignition to not align correctly. This will also cause the key to not turn when inserted into the lock cylinder. This can be fixed with a quick cleaning using compressed air. You can also grease the lock mechanism using a silicone-based spray. This will help clean the dirt and grease that can often cause a car key to be stuck in an ignition. If the lubricant you use does not work, you can call a locksmith to help. If you've got a brand new mechanical key but the ignition doesn't seem to be turning it's possible 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 partway into the ignition, then using the handle of a large screwdriver to “bump” the cylinder that holds the key. This usually releases two or three misaligned wafers within the cylinder that are keeping the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work then you may have to go to the mechanic or service station to purchase an entirely new ignition cylinder. 4. Replace the Key Getting locked out of your car could be a real hassle and you may be left with no option but to contact an expert locksmith or repair service to have the lock repaired. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock before calling someone. If the key itself isn't working, it could be a sign that the cylinder of the lock is damaged and requires replacement. You can replace the cylinder by yourself or hire a locksmith. The cost will vary based on the model and make of your car, as well as whether you require a transponder key or a conventional key. locks repair may also have a worn-out key. In this case, lubricating the keyhole might help, but it's likely that you will need to have your key replaced entirely. You can make a standard key at the local hardware store for $10. A transponder or smart key will require the services a locksmith. The most frequent issue is that the key itself becomes bent, and this could cause the lock to become stuck when you try to use it. To solve this issue you can straighten the key as far as you can using needle-nose pliers, but be careful not to apply too much pressure or force, as this can cause damage to the mechanism of the lock. You can also apply a small amount of WD-40 to lubricate the lock and unjam it. It's worth noting that if your keyfob isn't functioning it may be time to replace the batteries. It is possible to purchase replacement batteries online or at the majority of auto shops, however it's a good idea to check your vehicle's warranty to determine if this is covered under the terms. If your car isn't getting started and you're worried that the ignition switch is stuck, you must first locate the VIN (vehicle identification number) that is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will allow you to find the right people for assistance. Alternatively, you can always call your dealer or visit the manufacturer's website to learn more about your car's specific problems.