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How to Repair Car Key Lock Problems It could be an ordinary buildup of dirt or more serious, at times keys to your car can get stuck inside the door lock of your car. Luckily, this is an easy fix that you can do at home. If you can't insert your key into the keyhole, this is a clear indication that the lock is blocked. To get it fixed you can apply lubrication to the keyhole. 1. Lubricate the Keyhole You can try lubricating your keyhole. You can purchase lubricant in the majority of hardware stores. Spray the lubricant spray onto the lock, and then turn the key several times. This can help release the mechanism. If it doesn't, you might have to call a professional to fix it. You can also lubricate your lock with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will coat the lock, making it easier to remove and insert. This will also lubricate and clean the pins inside the lock, which could become blocked as time passes. Try wiggles on the mechanism. It may take a while, but it can often unlock a car lock. You can observe the mechanism more clearly if you use a flashlight, or the flash on your phone. If you feel like you're making progress, continue moving until the locking and unlocking actions feel smooth. If the key is still not turning, you might have to disassemble it and clean the lock mechanism. This isn't something that a normal person would accomplish, but it could be a fun project when you're a skilled tinkerer. You can also buy an exclusive lubricant specifically that is specifically designed for locks. This type of lubricant can be more robust than the general-purpose WD-40 and is more effective in releasing the frozen or stuck mechanism. You could also use a modified wire hanger in order to gain access to the lock on your vehicle. This method is not 100% guaranteed to work, but it could be an alternative in the event that all other methods fail. If the lock's cylinder is damaged, it might be difficult to open the door of your car or start the engine. This is a serious problem and requires a professional repair or replacement. Use the spare key to begin the vehicle until you can replace the damaged part. If you don't own a spare key, you could use a jigsaw to cut the broken part of the key. 2. Unlock the door It is important to periodically check the locks on your car's door and key mechanisms. Regular cleaning with a graphite or silicone spray can prevent debris from blocking the tumblers of your lock and making your key unable to turn. Alternately, you could try coating the key with graphite that has been powdered to create an interim oil. This allows the key to move within the lock. It may be a viable option if your vehicle has a manual lock instead of an electronic one. If the key is able to be inserted but it isn't turning it, there's a likely issue with the lock cylinder, an issue that can only be fixed by an experienced locksmith. It is also important to avoid using forceful entry techniques, as this can damage the lock mechanism and door. A long rod of iron can also be used to unlock a car. This rod is 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 break into. In certain situations the use of a wooden wedge or air wedge may be used to create space in the gap between the window and the door. A screwdriver or metal rod can then be inserted in the gap to make it easier to unlock. This technique isn't easy to master and doesn't guarantee success, since it is dependent on your car's make and model. In the event of an emergency, you will need to improvise and spend some time. Always keep an instrument in your car. Roadside assistance services like AAA offer kits that contain a wire hanger and other tools, and they are useful in times of need. Local police and security departments also carry jims with slim sizes that can be used to unlock vehicles. Review your auto insurance policy, as many policies include roadside assistance and lockout services. 3. Unlock the Ignition It's possible to fix a basic problem if your car key isn't turning in the ignition. First, ensure that the car is in Park before trying to remove the key. The steering wheel is designed to lock when keys are removed to prevent theft. Many people fail to place the key cylinder in Park when they turn off their car. locking car service could cause the key to get stuck in the ignition, causing the wheel to become locked. If this happens you need to grab the wheel and gently jiggle it back and forth while turning the key. If it works, you'll be capable of starting your vehicle when the key is unlocked. Another reason the car key could become stuck in the ignition is because it could have foreign materials in it. Lint from your pocket or tape adhesive or even corrosion from rust can cause the pins in the ignition to not line up properly. This can also cause the key to not turn when it is inserted into the lock cylinder. This can be corrected with cleaning the lock cylinder with compressed air. You could also try lubricating the lock mechanism with an oil-based spray made of silicone. This will help to remove dirt and grease that can often cause a car key to become jammed in an ignition. If the lubricant does not work, you can always call a locksmith in your area to help. If you've got a brand new mechanical key, but the ignition still won't turn it could be time to try bumping the cylinder of your ignition. This is a simple process that involves spraying WD-40 onto the key and inserting it in a small amount into the ignition. Then using a powerful screwdriver handle, “bump” or “squeeze” the key cylinder. This usually releases one or two wax wafers that are misaligned that block the ignition from turning. If this doesn't work, you might need to visit a mechanic or car service station and get an ignition cylinder that is new. 4. Replace the Key You may not have any choice but to contact locksmiths to fix the lock. There are a few things you can do to fix the lock before calling someone. If the key itself isn't working, it could indicate that the cylinder in the lock has been damaged and needs replacing. You can either replace the cylinder yourself or employ a locksmith. The cost will vary based on the model and make of your car, as well as whether you require a transponder or a conventional key. There is also the possibility of having an old key. In this case, you may be able to lubricate the keyhole, however it's likely that your key will need replacing. You can make a traditional key at your local hardware shop for just $10. A transponder key or smart key will require the services of a locksmith. The key could be bent, causing the lock to jam when you try to use the key. To resolve 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, since this could damage the lock mechanism. You can also use WD-40 to lubricate and open the lock. It's also worth noting that, in the event that your keyfob's not working it may be time to replace the batteries. You can purchase replacement batteries online or at most auto shops, but it's worth checking your vehicle's warranty to determine whether this is covered by the terms. If your car isn't starting and you're concerned that your ignition switch could be stuck, first locate the VIN (vehicle identification number) which is typically located on the dashboard of the driver's side. This will be useful in contacting the appropriate individuals 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 your car's specific issues.