What kind of oil should be added if the key insertion and removal are not smooth?
3 Answers
Add gasoline if the key insertion and removal are not smooth. Precautions for using car keys are as follows: 1. Storage: Do not place car keys together with mobile phones. Car keys use low-intensity radio waves, so they may not work properly under magnetic interference. If placed together with mobile phones for a long time, the frequency of the mobile phone may cause the smart key to malfunction. At the same time, avoid contact with strong magnetic fields, such as high-voltage lines, transmission towers, and other places with strong magnetic field signals. Try to avoid parking the vehicle in these areas. 2. Avoid dropping: Free fall is a nightmare for most precision electronic products, and smart keys are no exception. Therefore, handle them with care and avoid dropping or bumping them.
I also had the issue of the key not inserting or removing smoothly before, and it always felt stuck while driving, which was quite inconvenient. I tried using graphite powder lubricant, and it worked well; it's a dry powder that doesn't attract dust. First, I blew out the dust from the keyhole, then lightly brushed some powder inside with a small brush. After inserting and removing the key a few times, it became smooth. This problem might be caused by dust or minor rust buildup. Without lubrication, the keyhole could wear out faster over time. I spend a few minutes each week cleaning the key and keyhole, avoiding stuffing anything into the hole to prevent issues. If it's particularly severe and still sticks after lubrication, it's necessary to check if the lock cylinder is damaged.
When dealing with a sticky key insertion or removal, my first step is always to clean the keyhole by removing any dirt, using compressed air to blow it out thoroughly. Then, I apply a silicone-based dry lubricant spray, which is easy to use—just spray a small amount into the hole and work the key in and out several times to distribute the lubricant evenly. Avoid using motor oil or WD-40, as these can attract dust and become sticky, worsening the problem. Silicone-based lubricants are synthetic, long-lasting, and won't damage the lock mechanism. If the key still sticks after lubrication, the issue might be internal wear or a bent key, requiring professional inspection or replacement. Regular simple cleaning during maintenance can prevent most such issues.