What to Do When the Car Lock is Rusted and Won't Open?
2 Answers
If the car lock is rusted and won't open, you can try the following solutions: 1. Apply a few drops of soybean oil, sewing machine oil, or sesame oil into the keyhole: Also, dip the key in a few drops of oil, insert it into the keyhole, and turn it back and forth. Once it feels smooth, turn the key to open the lock. 2. Use soap or pencil lead shavings: Pour some soapy water into the keyhole, as it helps dissolve rust. Alternatively, you can use a rust dissolver or WD-40, which comes in a spray can similar to mosquito repellent, with a fine tube to avoid scattering. Spray it into the keyhole, and after the rust dissolves, shake it out and add some pencil shavings.
I once encountered the trouble of a rusty car lock that wouldn't open. It was during a humid winter when my car was parked in an open lot for several days. When I tried to drive again, the key just wouldn't turn. I guessed that rainwater or moisture had seeped into the lock cylinder, causing the metal parts to rust and stick together. I found a can of WD-40 lubricant spray, sprayed it into the keyhole a few times, and patiently waited five minutes for it to penetrate. Then I gently twisted the key to try unlocking it, and sure enough, it opened smoothly. Forcing the key to turn might break it or damage the lock cylinder, which would be even worse. Later, I developed the habit of using silicone-based lubricant to maintain my car locks once a year, especially before the rainy season. This simple operation can prevent the rust problem from recurring, saving money and giving peace of mind. When parking, I try to choose a dry spot or cover the car with a cover, which also greatly reduces the risk of rust. In short, don't panic—start with lubricant, and if that doesn't work, then seek help from a professional locksmith.
