Door locks

[c00ky83]

My 2-door car has central locking, by which both doors are unlocked by turning my key in the driver's door. The other week, my key wouldn't turn after a hard frost, though I got in through the passenger door (opens by key, but key only opens one door). Since then though, my key will not turn at all in the driver's door, so I have been climbing through the passenger door every time! The locks still work - I have a button inside which operates the central locking and both still open and lock fine.

So - what's wrong with my lock? Any ideas what I should do or how much it will cost?

[v64paul]

why dont you try a little light oil such as wd40. spray it into the keyhole and gently work the key and things should free up. frost is not usually to blame, it's that the lock was dry/ not lubricated to begin with. as for how much, what make of car and how old?

[c00ky83]

WD40 didn't work, so I think it needs looking at. It's a 1996 Corolla.

[jwhmason]

Hay I also have the same problem.  I have a 95 bronco and i have to crawl from my trunk.  How much was it? What did they do? And what was wrong?  It has also changed from 75 degrees to 35 and has rained everyday

[lodekka]

Happens with my Astra sometimes, but seems to clear up if I turn the key upside down.

 

Does your key have a chip inside, and have you tried using a spare key?

[bobinspain]

firstly, if your car has central locking the problem may be a couple of things. first spray WD40 into the barrel of the lock then put your key inside and try to pull your key in and out of the lock without trying to turn the key. then after say 30 seconds spray more WD40 into the lock then try to turn the key. this should work. if it doesnt then the problem is either someone has tried to enter your car (break in) or the central locking mechanism is knackered. if the central locking is knackered then what i suggest you do is take the lock off the car and take it to a qualified locksmith who should be able to repair the lock for a nominal fee. failing this if you change the lock at a main dealer you will then have two different keys for one car.

Ps. it is always worth noting that all locks should be lubricated on a regular basis. WD40 is perfect for freeing up sealed or stuck joints but it is NOT a long term lubricant. for car locks the best solution is graphite powder failing this 3 in 1 oil. DO NOT USE GREASE. this makes dirt and the likes stick to it and clogs up the locks