What to Do When the Car Door Lock Freezes and Won't Open in Winter?
2 Answers
First, use a hairdryer set to low heat and blow it along the door seam for a full cycle, then switch the hairdryer to high heat. After thawing, immediately wipe the melted snow water with a dry cloth to prevent refreezing. Once the snow has melted, the car door can be opened. Rubber becomes hard and brittle, and the friction coefficient decreases. It's advisable to choose better winter tires for replacement and pay attention to the vehicle's tire pressure. For the braking system, replace the brake pads in a timely manner. Among the maintenance items for the braking system, regularly checking the brake fluid level is the most important.
Frozen car door locks in winter can indeed be frustrating. In my 20 years of driving, I've encountered this issue multiple times. Usually, when ice forms inside the lock and the key won't go in, don't panic. First, pour some lukewarm water to melt the ice—avoid using water that's too hot to prevent glass cracking, then wait patiently for two to three minutes. Prevention is crucial. I always spray lubricant like WD-40 into the keyhole before winter to minimize ice buildup. If the lock is completely frozen, a heat gun can also work, but avoid directing it at plastic parts. When parking, choose dry spots or use a car cover to avoid moisture. Once, I forced the key and damaged the lock cylinder, costing thousands in repairs—a painful lesson. Address the issue promptly to avoid affecting travel safety. It's advisable to keep a bottle of de-icing spray on hand for emergencies, as it's quick and convenient. These small tips save both hassle and trouble.
