Last Updated on February 11, 2025 by Alan Weir
7 Common Car Lock Issues and How to Fix Them
As a car locksmith with years of experience under my belt, I’ve seen it all when it comes to car lock issues. Your vehicle is your trusty steed, but what happens when you encounter pesky lock dilemmas? Fear not! I’m here to walk you through some of the most common car lock problems and how to tackle them like a pro. Let’s dive right into it, shall we?
1. Keys Stuck in the Ignition
Have you ever had that heart-stopping moment when you turn off your car, only to find that your key is stubbornly lodged in the ignition? This is a common issue, and while it can feel like an absolute crisis, don’t panic.
How to Fix It:
First things first, try wiggling the steering wheel while gently trying to turn the key. Sometimes, the steering lock may be engaged and causing the key to stick. If this doesn’t work, check if the gear is in ‘Park’ for automatic cars—or ‘Neutral’ for manual vehicles. If all else fails, it might be a good idea to consult your vehicle’s manual for any specific troubleshooting related to your make and model. If you still can’t get the key out, it might be time to call a locksmith.
If you want to understand more about why this happens, you can check out this insightful article.
2. Car Door Won’t Open
Nothing can be more frustrating than getting to your car and the door refusing to budge. This can happen due to several reasons, including a faulty lock mechanism or frozen locks in colder weather.
How to Fix It:
If you suspect the lock is frozen, you can usually resolve this with a little warm water. Pour it gently over the lock and try locking and unlocking it until you feel movement. If a mechanical issue is the problem—a broken latch or internal component—you’ll likely need a more hands-on approach, like removing the door panel to access the locking mechanism. If you’re not comfortable doing this, I recommend getting in touch with a professional locksmith—like us at RevLock—who can deal with it swiftly and effectively.
For more on troubleshooting car door locks, visit this handy guide.
3. Key Fob Not Working
In this digital age, many of us rely heavily on key fobs for our vehicles. When your fob suddenly stops responding, it can feel like the end of the world (or cars, at least).
How to Fix It:
The first step is to check the battery. Key fob batteries usually last around 3-4 years. If you have a spare fob, try using it to see if that resolves the issue. If the battery is dead, you can easily replace it yourself by popping the fob open (you might need a small flathead screwdriver to help out).
If replacing the battery doesn’t work, you may need to reprogram the fob. Consult your vehicle’s manual for instructions; you might also find programming instructions online specific to your car’s make and model.
For more detailed advice on key fob issues, have a look at this article.
4. Car Lock Cylinders
If you’ve been struggling to unlock your car door easily, the lock cylinder may be the culprit. Wear and tear can cause these components to malfunction.
How to Fix It:
Start by applying some penetrating oil in both the keyhole and around the edges. Insert your key and gently turn it a few times to work the oil into the lock mechanism. If the problem persists, it may be time to disassemble the lock cylinder completely and inspect it for any internal blockages or damage.
However, if you’re not feeling up to a DIY job, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced car locksmith who can either repair the lock or replace it if necessary. More info can be found here on how to maintain your car locks.
5. Ignition Lock Trouble
Misfiring or jamming ignition locks can be a real headache, leading to situations where you’re simply unable to start your car.
How to Fix It:
Usually, the first step is to check your key for any wear or damage. If it’s visibly damaged, a new key might be required. If your key looks like it’s in prime condition, the ignition lock itself may need some oiling. Just like with the door locks, applying a little WD-40 can often work wonders.
If that doesn’t resolve the issue, it may be indicative of a deeper problem inside the ignition lock, which may require disassembly or replacement by a locksmith. Don’t forget to diagnose the problem quickly; neglecting it could lead to a full ignition failure.
For more ignition lock troubleshooting, consult this comprehensive guide.
6. Remote Central Locking Problems
Ah, remote keyless entry can truly bring convenience to the car ownership experience—until it doesn’t. When your remote central locking messes up, it’s often due to battery issues or interference.
How to Fix It:
First, replace the battery in your remote, as this is the primary suspect. If the problem continues, check to see if there’s anything blocking the signal, like a dead zone or interference from other electronic devices.
Programming issues can also occur; revisit the owner’s manual for steps on resetting it. In some cases, resetting the vehicle’s systems by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes may refresh the electronic locks. Finally, if you still encounter issues, a professional examination is definitely in order.
7. Broken Car Lock
Lastly, a broken lock is among the more severe issues you can face. This could stem from wear and tear, or a particularly aggressive attempt to unlock the door that went awry.
How to Fix It:
If you find yourself in this scenario, a temporary fix can involve using a screwdriver or similar tool to force the lock down, but this can lead to additional damage. The best approach is to replace the broken lock entirely. This process often involves removing the door panel to access the locking mechanism.
Trust me—if you’re apprehensive about it, you’ll want to leave this one to the experts. A professional locksmith can not only replace the lock, but also ensure that everything functions smoothly afterward. You can read more on broken lock replacements here.
Remember, when it comes to car locks, a little preventative care goes a long way. Regularly cleaning and lubricating locks can help prolong their lifespans and give you fewer headaches down the line. Should you run into any other issues, don’t hesitate to call on an experienced locksmith to get you sorted out!
Alan Weir – Master Locksmith with 30+ Years of Experience
Alan Weir is the founder of Weir Locksmiths and a Master Locksmith with over three decades of experience. Renowned for his expertise in home and automotive security, Alan has built a reputation for providing reliable and innovative locksmith solutions across the UK.
A certified member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), Alan specialises in residential, commercial and automotive locksmith services including car key replacement, transponder programming, and advanced security systems. His dedication to the field has earned him thousands of satisfied customers and glowing reviews on platforms like Checkatrade.
Now contributing to RevLock, Alan shares his expert knowledge to all of RevLocks visitors.
