Last Updated on December, 2024
Is your car door lock refusing to budge no matter how many times you try to unlock it with your key?
A locked car door can be a huge annoyance, especially when you’re out and eagerly waiting to get back home after a long day or running late for work.
Don’t give up just yet! In this article, we will discuss why your car door lock is jammed, how to manually unlock car doors without a key, the secret to unlocking a deadlocked car, and so much more!
Stick around to find out.
Quick Summary
- Common causes of car door lock issues include dead key fob batteries, blown fuses, solenoid malfunctions, broken rods or connectors, electrical problems, and worn-out or damaged components like the key, lock cylinder, or lock tailpiece.
- Solutions for unlocking a car without a key range from replacing the key fob battery, lubricating the lock, checking fuses, and attempting DIY methods like using a slim jim, inflatable wedge, or shoestring.
- If DIY methods fail, it’s best to consult a locksmith, especially for complex problems such as deadlocks, electrical issues, or broken components.
Reasons Why Your Car Door Won’t Unlock
A stuck door can seriously ruin your day.
While technological advancements in modern cars have replaced the old method of inserting your key into the keyhole to unlock your car with a button or using your phone, this can present complicated challenges when the car door locks get jammed.
Here are some common reasons why your car door lock is stuck in both modern car models and older cars.
Your Key Fob Battery is Dead
A key fob is equipped with transmitters that operate within a limited range. Pressing the lock button on the key fob sends radio wave signals to your car, allowing you to control your car door lock.
These key fobs are battery-operated, which means that once the battery is dead, the fob chip loses power, rendering it unable to lock or unlock your car doors. Replacing the battery in your key fob is an easy fix.
The batteries are usually coin-shaped, but you should check your owner’s manual for the specific type or remove the old battery from the fob and find the size printed on it.
Your key fob can also stop working due to misaligned buttons or damaged contact. You would have to open the fob to inspect it for any issues. If you’re unsure how to open the fob, refer to the manual or search online for instructions.
If the issue is not with the battery, you must take your fob to a car dealer to see what’s wrong. They will check if your fob is working properly and tell you if it needs to be replaced.
Blown Fuse
Another reason for a jammed car door lock may be a blown fuse.
First, check the fuse for your door locks before visiting a locksmith. The owner’s manual will show you the location of the fuse box, which is usually behind a plastic cover near the driver’s door, and can be accessed without proper tools.
After removing the cover, you’ll find a diagram inside the lid or in the manual that identifies the different fuses. Locate the one for the door lock.
You may need pliers or tweezers to remove the fuse (some cars may have a toolkit inside the fuse box lid). Inspect the metal strip in the fuse; if it’s broken, the fuse is blown. You can then take your car to a locksmith or a dealer to replace the fuse with one of the same amperage.
Solenoid Malfunction
Pressing a button on your key fob transmits a signal to a solenoid in your car door. This solenoid converts the electronic signal into a mechanical motion, moving a steel rod that traditionally would have been moved by turning a key in the car lock.
If your car door lock isn’t working, one solution is to replace the solenoid. This involves removing the interior door panel, which you can attempt on your own or have a professional car dealer do the job for you.
Your Rod or Connector is Broken
A mechanical failure, such as a broken rod or a damaged connector, could cause your car lock issues.
These components form a network connecting with the door panel switches to the inner and outer door handles and locks. Over time, plastic can harden and become brittle, or debris and rust can accumulate inside the front doors from the shutter being opened and closed repeatedly.
To fix this, you’ll need to open the interior door panel to inspect the parts and repair the issue.
Electrical Problems
If the problem persists and you still can’t figure out how to gain access to your car, it may be due to an electrical issue.
Each electrical component relies on a logic board and a wire connected to a power source, usually the battery. A faulty logic board or a damaged wire can lead to issues. If your car door works intermittently, it might indicate an electrical short.
This could be caused by worn plastic insulation on the wire. If the system has stopped working entirely, the wire might be broken. This is a major issue that requires a professional to examine your car.
The Lock Tailpiece is Broken
Like traditional doors, many car locks have a tailpiece that links the key to the latch or bolt of the lock.
It rotates roughly 90 degrees around its attachment point, allowing movement of the cam and linkage. This action returns the key to its original position without changing the latch settings.
Like any other lock, the tailpiece can wear out over time. You may have to take your car to a locksmith for a closer look.
The Key is Worn Out
Due to frequent usage, your car key can wear out. A worn-out or bent key can stop the tumblers from aligning, preventing the lock from turning.
It is always best to make a duplicate of your car key while it’s still in good condition. Copying a worn-out key will result in a duplicate that won’t work properly.
If you’re unsure if the key is the issue, try unlocking a different door. Typically, a damaged key will fail to unlock any car door. An easy solution to this is to get your car keys replaced.
The Lock Cylinder is Damaged
Over time, rust and dirt can harm the components inside the door lock, which might explain why your manual key fails to unlock the door.
The tumblers inside the cylinder are particularly susceptible to damage. These bass plates are located in the core and align with the key to turn the lock and open the door.
You may have to take your car to a locksmith to get your lock fixed.
The Car Lock Needs Lubricant
While car locks usually don’t require oiling, their metal parts can wear out or become stuck over time. If you’re finding it difficult to turn the key, it’s time to lubricate the lock.
Try applying oil or graphite to the grooves of your key and insert it into the lock. This method uses the key to distribute the lubricant throughout the locking mechanism.
However, keep in mind that this is only a temporary solution. At some point, you may have to replace your entire lock. Take care not to over-apply the lubricant, as excess oil can attract rust and other debris, making unlocking the door even harder.
The Latch is Stuck
If the issue isn’t with your key, it may be your door.
Door latches can become stuck due to rusting or worn-out parts, preventing you from gaining access to your vehicle.
As a temporary fix, try using the other door of your vehicle. Though it may be inconvenient, it can help you manage in the short term. For a long-term fix, it’s best to contact a professional locksmith.
What is a Deadlocked Car?
Most modern vehicles are equipped with deadlock systems, which adds security by requiring you to insert your keys directly into the lock to unlock the doors.
These systems are designed to deter criminals by not allowing them to access the car easily. Instead of being able to smash a window and unlock the door, an alarm will trigger to alert you.
One common form of the deadlock is the child safety lock which is usually found on the rear door. They stop the doors from being opened from the inside.
In some vehicle models, opening a locked door with deadlocks requires turning the key further than usual. If you’re having trouble unlocking your vehicle, you may just have to turn the key further from the locked position.
Refer to the owner’s manual or consult a locksmith for proper instructions.
How to Unlock a Car Door Without Your Keys?
If you’re in a hurry to get inside your car, here are some useful methods to try.
Use a Slim Jim
A slim jim is a slender metal rod designed to fit between the window and weatherstrip, granting access to the lock and enabling you to unlock the door from the inside of your vehicle.
Apply adequate pressure until you hear a subtle clicking sound from the lock.
Use an Inflatable Door Wedge
Use an inflatable door wedge, which is a rubber device that safely creates a gap between the door and the frame without damaging the paint.
Once sufficient space is created, you can insert the required tools to unlock the door.
Pull the Locking Mechanism With a Shoestring
You can attempt to pull the lock with a shoestring. You must first tie a small loop in the centre of the shoestring, manoeuvre it down to the lock, and pull it up and down.
Once the loop is in the locked position, tighten it by pulling the two ends together, then pull the string upward to unlock the door.
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When to Call a Professional Locksmith?
While you can try unlocking your car using the above DIY approaches, the easiest way to solve this issue is to call a professional locksmith to unlock your car for you.
Locksmiths are trained professionals who can diagnose the problem with your car lock accurately and unlock it accordingly. The cost for this service can start from £120, which can depend on factors such as the complexity of the locking mechanism and the vehicle type.
FAQs
Conclusion
A stuck car door that refuses to budge from its locked position can happen during the worst moments, but it’s crucial to remain calm and figure out the root of this problem.
The best course of action is to seek help from a professional locksmith who can diagnose the problem and fix it accordingly.
