What to Do When the Key Feels Stiff?

[LilyAnn]

Drop a few drops of sewing machine oil into the keyhole, wait for about 1 minute, then insert and turn the key. You can also purchase a bottle of rust remover from the market and spray some into the keyhole to solve the problem. Industrial-grade graphite talcum powder can also be used; typically, some lock-opening companies use this to repair door lock lubrication issues.

[Nunes]

With years of experience in car repairs, I've found that the common causes of a stiff key are dust accumulation or rust in the lock cylinder, or the key itself being clogged with dirt. A simple solution is to dip a toothpick in graphite powder from a pencil or spray some dedicated lock lubricant into the keyhole, then slowly insert the key and turn it back and forth a few times to lubricate. If this doesn't help, check if the edges of the key are worn or bent, and gently straighten them with pliers or try using a spare key. Avoid forcing the key to prevent jamming, and be careful not to push dust further in during cleaning. Remember to maintain the lock regularly—I apply a bit of lubricant to the keyhole every month to prevent oxidation and keep the entry smooth. Also, make it a habit to avoid touching the key with wet hands to reduce rust buildup. If the problem persists after lubrication, it's best to consult a professional repair shop to check for deeper damage in the lock cylinder. Following these steps usually resolves most issues, ensuring safe and convenient travel.

[WalterAnn]

My old car often feels stiff when inserting the key, and DIY is the most cost-effective solution. First, clean the key surface by wiping it with alcohol or water-dampened tissue, focusing on removing dust from the grooves. For the keyhole, use tweezers to scrape out debris, then spray some WD-40 lubricant and let it penetrate for a few minutes. Reinsert the key and gently turn it a few times to distribute the lubricant. If the key seems bent, avoid bending it back; instead, carefully smooth it with a metal file. For prevention, I keep a small graphite lubricant block on my keychain, rubbing it against the keyhole before each use. This method quickly eliminates stiffness and is much more convenient than visiting a shop. Avoid using overly oily substances that could clog the mechanism.

[DelJoshua]

As a car enthusiast, don't panic when the key feels stiff - it's usually due to lack of lubrication in the lock cylinder or key oxidation/aging. First clean the key thoroughly, then apply a thin layer of pencil graphite powder for lubrication and gently try turning it. If that doesn't work, check if the keyhole is damp/rusty - just remove rust gently and add lubricant. Maintain your keys properly with regular cleaning to prevent dirt buildup. Always handle with care to avoid damaging components with excessive force.