If your car’s door lock has become sticky due to hot weather, it may be time to take action. You can try using a Silicone spray lubricant, graphite powder, or a product called Tri-Flow. But if all of these options don’t work for you, try hiring a car locksmith. These professionals can diagnose the problem and carry all the parts that may need to be replaced.
Professionals can also help you when you Get Locked Out of your home or car.
Graphite powder
Graphite powder is one of the easiest ways to lubricate door locks. The dry powder won’t attract dirt or stick to the internal lock parts. The best way to restore functionality is to clean the locks thoroughly and apply lubricant to them.
Graphite is a common substance found in pencil leads. If you can find some, you can try rubbing a small amount on the door key. Be sure to use a cloth underneath to catch any drips. Next, carefully clean the keyhole and moving parts. Follow up with lubrication after a day or two to ensure that it has been effective. Graphite powder will work better than the liquid lubricant, preventing the need for frequent reapplication.
The only downside is that graphite doesn’t work very well for non-lubricated locks.
While graphite can solve sticky car locks, you need to be careful not to overdo it. This is because graphite sticks to most liquids and can instead clog the lock making matters worse. You can use too much graphite, so be sure you don’t go overboard.
You may also encounter a dusty lock after a long time. Graphite can make a lock harder to turn and can even break if it’s not used correctly.
Silicone Spray Lubricant
There are several ways to fix sticky car door locks. One of the most common ways is to use a lubricant. However, not all lubricants are suitable for car door locks. To prevent your car door locks from becoming sticky again, it is best to check the compatibility of your lock with the lubricant before applying it.
Once the lubricant is applied, a paper towel or rag should be placed underneath the door to catch the drips. Repeat the procedure until the lock opens smoothly and your key can be inserted or removed easily. Afterward, wipe the door lock with a towel or rag to remove any remaining lubricant. When the lock is fully operational, it should not be sticky again.
Tri-Flow
The other perhaps lesser-known solution to a sticky car door lock is to apply a product called Tri-Flow. This is a dry synthetic spray that works as a lubricant. It has a low sheen and does not leave any residue behind. The only downside of Tri-Flow is that it requires several hours to dry before it is usable. However, it is well worth the wait because it will restore your door lock to its former glory.
For the best results, apply it directly to the locked area. Do not worry if the product leaks out – use a clean cloth to catch any spills. You may need to apply for more than one application if the door lock is incredibly stuck.
Locksmiths use this lubricant to lubricate stubborn ignitions and locks. It penetrates deep, thus preventing oxidation and dirt build-up. Applying a couple of drops of Tri-Flow will loosen a sticky car door lock and make it easier to insert a key. This lubricant is also safe to use and will prevent your vehicle from rusting.
Gun Oil Aerosol
Another solution to a sticky car door lock is to use gun oil aerosol. This solution works in temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius. The thick substance it contains will reduce squeaky noises from the door and provide an effective solution to a sticky door lock. If the solution does not work for you, consider using graphite lubricant (as mentioned above). It’s also cheaper and works for most locks.
Final Word
Many people will find that dealing with a sticky car door lock needs to start with figuring out why the door is sticking. If there is a blockage caused by ice, rust, or dirt? If that’s not the case, then what part is worn out. Once the problem is understood, you can then try to find a working solution to it.
Cleaning the lock will help to solve most of the issues associated with ice, dirt, and rust. However, many steps need to be taken after the lock has been cleaned to ensure that the problem does not resurface. If cleaning does not solve the issue, the lock will need to be replaced.
If you can’t figure out how to fix a problem, the best thing is to call a locksmith. A locksmith should be able to find a solution to just about any problem with your car door locks.
Author Bio: Ran Kroynish is an experienced handyman who’s been working for Elite Locksmiths for 10 years. When he’s not fixing doors, he likes to share his repair ideas and knowledge with others.
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