Common Automotive Lock and Key Issues

In this blog entry, the professional Charleston automotive locksmith service lock repair team here at Charleston Locksmith Pro will detail the main type of lock and key issues that we regularly repair in vehicles.

Keys Turn But Don’t Unlock the Car Door

This is often caused by wear and tear and misalignment in the lock components. It causes a failed connection between the lock cylinder and the lock mechanism. Regularly provide maintenance to the lock, and lubricate it in order to prevent this issue. If you notice the problem, contactor professional locksmith team to realign or replace damaged parts without damaging other aspects of the lock system

Keys Won’t Turn in the Ignition

Often caused by key damage, issues with steering locks, or stuck wafers in ignition cylinders. Make sure that the steering wheel isn’t locked by slightly turning it which relieves pressure on ignition cylinders. If the key doesn’t turn, it probably needs to be lubricated or the ignition cylinder needs to be replaced.

Frozen Locks

This issue can prevent keys from turning or entering the lock. Use a lock de-icer to do this, or use a gentle heat source to melt the ice, but ever use hot water to do this. You can prevent moisture from entering locks and freezing through the regular application of graphite powder.

Keys Breaking Off In Locks

Using extra force when you’re trying to turn a key stuck in your car lock can often cause the key to snap off in the lock. If your key suddenly snaps in your car lock, do not try to use a tool to extract it, as this often just pushes the broken key piece deeper into the lock mechanism itself, worsening the issue. Contact our professional automotive locksmith for rapid, efficient, convenient, and affordable broken key extraction services.