What is the reason why the key can keep turning but cannot unlock?
2 Answers
The reasons why the key can keep turning but cannot unlock include: wrong direction, rusted lock cylinder, or key issues. Wrong direction: When the mechanical key is rotated in the wrong direction, the car door will not unlock. In most cases, the rotation direction to unlock the car door is clockwise, while the opposite direction locks it. If you are unsure about the unlocking direction, you can refer to the car's user manual for guidance. Rusted lock cylinder: Most car owners use remote keys to unlock or lock the car door and rarely use mechanical keys. As a result, the lock hole may rust due to prolonged disuse. In such cases, you can try lubricating it with engine oil. If it still doesn't work, the lock cylinder may need to be replaced. Key issues: In most cases, mechanical keys do not have significant problems. If there is an issue, it is usually with a later-made duplicate key that is incomplete. Sometimes, in the early morning during winter, the mechanical key may not turn when trying to unlock the car door. This is caused by residual water from car washing entering the keyhole. When the key is inserted, the locking mechanism inside fails to pop up, preventing the key from turning. In such situations, avoid applying excessive force to turn the key, as it may cause damage or deformation, rendering the key unusable.
The key keeps turning but the door won't open? I've seen this quite a few times. After decades of driving, the most common issue with older cars is either lock cylinder wear or dust buildup. The key turns smoothly, but the internal linkage gets stuck or the spring comes loose, causing the door latch to remain unresponsive. This is especially accelerated in dusty environments or when using worn-out keys. I remember once during a trip, on a scorching hot day, the car door just wouldn't open—ended up using some lubricant spray as a quick fix. For prevention, regularly use specialized lock cylinder cleaner and avoid water-based products to prevent rust. If it happens, don’t force the key; you might damage the lock further. Best to take it to a professional locksmith ASAP to avoid getting stranded. Safety first—don’t spend too long fiddling with it on the roadside.
